What is the duration of tourist visa?

Decoding the Indian Tourist Visa Duration: It’s Not as Simple as 1 or 5 Years

The duration of an Indian tourist visa can be a source of confusion. While you might see visas granted for one year, five years, or even ten years, the crucial detail often overlooked is the continuous stay permitted within a single calendar year. Regardless of the overall validity printed on your visa, Indian tourist visas currently restrict any single visit to a maximum of 180 days (six months).

This means that even if you hold a five-year tourist visa, you cannot stay in India continuously for the entire five years. After a maximum of six months, you must leave the country. You can return later within the visa’s validity period, but again, your stay will be limited to a maximum of 180 days in any given calendar year. This also applies to one-year visas – you can make multiple trips within that year, but the cumulative duration within any single calendar year cannot exceed six months.

This six-month limitation serves several purposes. It helps regulate visitor numbers, ensures compliance with visa regulations, and facilitates effective visitor management within the country. It’s crucial to understand this distinction between the overall visa validity and the permitted duration of each stay to avoid any issues with immigration authorities.

Understanding the nuances of the Indian tourist visa’s duration is essential for planning your trip effectively. While the long-term validity offers flexibility for multiple visits, remembering the six-month limitation per calendar year is paramount for a hassle-free travel experience. Always check the latest regulations and guidelines from official sources before your trip, as visa rules are subject to change.