An Indian cruise is a great way to see as much of the country as possible on one trip. Cruises in India call many big cities, beach resorts, and places of interest: Popular destinations such as Goa and Mumbai are included in many routes. Travelers are often unsure if they need a visa to go on an Indian cruise and if so, what kind.
The following information explains what cruise passengers need to know about India’s visa requirements when entering Indian waters by sea.
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Indian Visa for Cruise Ship
Most foreigners need a visa to enter India, which applies to arriving by air, land, or sea. Only Maldivians enjoy visa-free access to India. This means that cruise passengers must have a valid visa for India, even if they do not want to get off the boat and go ashore. Families planning cruise holidays should be aware that children also need E-VISA to India
The easiest way to get a visa for India is online. India E-VISA is fully electronic and can be applied from home 24 hours a day. E-VISA saves time because there is no need to present documents in person at the consulate or embassy. India Tourist E-VISA Multi-entry and valid for up to 90 days, more than enough time for most cruises.
If the Indian seaport of entry does not accept E-VISA, it is necessary to apply for a traditional India visa at an embassy or consulate.
Indian cruise with an E-visa
Travelers can avail Indian visa for cruise ship visitors from any of the following seaports:
- Kochi (also known as Cochin)
- Chennai
- Mumbai
- Murugan (Goa)
- New Mangalore (Mangalore)
Cruises that stop at a combination of these 5 seaports can be boarded with an Indian online visa.
What is an Indian business visa?
Indian Business Visa is an e-business travel authorization. Business e-Visa allows its holders to participate in business-related activities while in India.
Foreigners wishing to travel to India for business purposes such as: attending business, technical meetings, setting up industry/business ventures, giving lectures on trade, academic network (GIAN), global initiatives for sale/purchase, exhibitions, trade, and trade fairs.
Indian Business Visa Validity
The e-business visa is issued as a double-entry travel permit. This allows the traveler to stay for a maximum of 180 days. Visa validity starts from the first date of entry into India. Eligible citizens can apply for and get two e-visas in one year. If a traveler wants to extend their stay in India for more than 180 days, they will have to apply for a consular visa instead of an e-visa as an e-visa cannot be extended.
Receiving Indian Business E-Visa
Indian e-business visas can be obtained by persons who represent business, co-owner of a corporation, shareholders of a company, or business owners. These individuals need to provide their business letters or business card to prove their involvement in the industry and the reason for coming to India. They must also have legitimate activities that will benefit both their own business and the Indian business or labor industry in one way or another.
