India visa for Swiss citizens
Swiss citizens can apply online for an Indian e-Visa (tourist, business, medical or conference categories) on the official Government of India site before travelling.
Check the official site before you travel. imptgandhinagar.in is a hotel and travel site; it does not issue visas. Visa rules change: confirm on indianvisaonline.gov.in.
| Status | e-Visa available |
|---|---|
| Visa type | Indian e-Visa (tourist, business, medical, conference), applied for online |
| Where to apply | indianvisaonline.gov.in (e-Visa) |
| Processing | Set by the Government of India: check the official site |
| Arrival | At an airport or seaport designated for e-Visa arrivals |
Swiss passport holders can obtain an Indian e-Visa for tourism, business, or medical purposes. The application is completed online through the official government website. You receive an electronic travel authorisation, which you present on arrival at designated airports or seaports. This simplifies the process, avoiding a visit to an embassy. Check the official site for current eligibility and rules.
What the e-Visa Means
The Indian e-Visa lets Swiss citizens enter India without a traditional visa sticker in the passport. It is linked electronically to your passport number. You apply online, pay the fee, and receive an authorisation via email. Print this document and carry it with you. The e-Visa covers tourism, business trips, or medical treatment. It is valid for entry at specific airports and seaports only. Check the official site for the list of designated points.
Before You Travel and Arrival
Apply for the e-Visa at least a few days before your departure on the official website. You need a digital photo and a scan of your passport's bio page. After approval, you receive an electronic travel authorisation. Print a copy to show at check-in and on arrival. At the Indian airport, proceed to the e-Visa counter. An immigration officer verifies your authorisation and passport. Biometrics, such as fingerprints, are taken on arrival.
Arriving in Cities and Travelling
Swiss citizens can enter India at major international airports, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Kolkata, as well as some seaports. From the airport, you can take a prepaid taxi or use a ride app to reach your accommodation. For travel between cities, domestic flights, trains, and buses are available. Keep your passport and e-Visa copy handy for hotel check-ins or internal travel checks. Always follow local laws and customs.
Staying Longer, Working or Studying
The e-Visa is for short stays. If you plan to work, study, or stay longer, you need a different visa category. Apply for a work visa, student visa, or employment visa at the Indian embassy in Switzerland before travel. The official website provides details on these categories. For extensions or changes to your visa status while in India, contact the Foreigners Regional Registration Office. Check the official site for the latest rules.
How to apply for the e-Visa
- Apply online on the official e-Visa site indianvisaonline.gov.in.
- Upload a recent digital photo and a scan of your passport's bio page.
- Pay the visa fee online using a credit or debit card.
- Wait for the electronic travel authorisation to be sent via email.
- Print the authorisation and carry it with your passport.
- Travel to India and arrive at an e-Visa-designated airport or seaport.
- Complete biometrics, including fingerprint scanning, on arrival.
Documents to carry
- Valid Swiss passport with at least six months validity
- Printed copy of the e-Visa authorisation email
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
- Travel insurance (recommended)
Swiss citizens: questions
Can Swiss citizens apply for an Indian e-Visa?
Yes, Swiss passport holders are eligible for the Indian e-Visa for tourism, business, or medical visits. Apply online at the official website before travel.
What documents do Swiss citizens need for an Indian e-Visa?
You need a valid Swiss passport with at least six months validity, a digital photo, and a scan of the passport's bio page. Check the official site for specific requirements.
Where can Swiss citizens enter India with an e-Visa?
Swiss citizens can enter India at designated international airports and seaports. The official site lists all eligible entry points. Do not attempt entry at land borders.
What if a Swiss citizen wants to work in India?
For work or study, you need a different visa category, such as an employment or student visa. Apply at the Indian embassy in Switzerland before travel.
Is biometric data collected on arrival for Swiss citizens?
Yes, on arrival at an Indian airport, you will have your fingerprints and photograph taken as part of the immigration process.
Can Swiss citizens extend their e-Visa while in India?
The e-Visa is not extendable. For longer stays, you must apply for a different visa category from the Indian embassy before travel. Check the official site for rules.
Where will you stay in Gandhinagar?
Near Mahatma Mandir for the summit, Sector 11 for offices, GIFT City for the finance district. Live prices for your dates open in the IMPT app.
Photo credits: Photo on Pexels.