India is a land of cultural richness, spiritual heritage, and diverse landscapes, attracting millions of travelers from around the world every year. U.S. citizens form a significant portion of international visitors, whether they're drawn by tourism, family connections, business opportunities, or spiritual journeys. Navigating the visa process is one of the essential steps in planning a trip to India. This comprehensive guide covers the key aspects of Indian visa requirements, particularly for American citizens, including minors, and also answers a critical question many travelers ask: which airports in India accept eVisa holders?

Indian Visa for U.S. Citizens: General Overview

India offers several visa options for U.S. citizens depending on the purpose of travel. These include:

• Tourist Visa
  
  
• Business Visa
  
  
• Medical Visa
  
  
• Student Visa
  
  
• eVisa (Electronic Travel Authorization)
  
  

For most short-term travel needs such as tourism, business visits, or short medical treatments, the Indian eVisa is the most convenient option. The Indian eVisa is fully digital, meaning you can apply, get approved, and carry a digital copy of your visa—all without visiting an Indian embassy or consulate.

Indian Visa for US Citizens Minors and Children

A common question among families planning travel to India is: how does the visa process work for minors? The answer is straightforward yet requires careful attention to documentation. The Indian visa for US citizens minors and children follows the same application procedure as it does for adults. Children, regardless of age, must have their own individual visa to enter India.Here are some key points to remember:

• Separate Application: Each child must have their own visa application, even if traveling with parents or guardians.
  
  
• Passport Requirement: Minors must hold a valid U.S. passport. It’s important to note that children included in a parent’s passport are not eligible—each traveler must possess a separate passport.
  
  
• Parental Consent: When applying for a visa for a child, parents must submit additional documentation such as:
  
  
  • A copy of the child’s birth certificate
    
    
  • Consent letters from both parents (especially if only one parent is traveling)
    
    
  • Copies of the parents’ passports or ID
    
    
• Photo Requirement: Children must provide a recent passport-style photo that meets India’s specific requirements for visa applications.
  
  

Whether applying for a traditional stamped visa or an eVisa, these rules apply consistently. The Indian government is very particular about identity verification, especially for minors.

eVisa: The Convenient Choice

The Indian eVisa has transformed the travel experience for U.S. citizens, eliminating the need to visit consulates or mail in documents. You can apply for the eVisa on the official Indian government website, typically receiving approval within 72 hours.There are currently five types of eVisas available:

1. Tourist eVisa (30 days, 1 year, or 5 years)
   
   
2. Business eVisa
   
   
3. Medical eVisa
   
   
4. Medical Attendant eVisa
   
   
5. Conference eVisa
   
   

Each comes with specific validity and allowed duration of stay. For instance, the 30-day tourist eVisa allows double entry, while the 1-year and 5-year tourist eVisas permit multiple entries with stays of up to 90 days per visit.

Which Airports Allow Entry with Indian eVisa

Another critical aspect of traveling to India with an eVisa is understanding port of entry restrictions. Unlike traditional visas that allow entry from any international airport or land port, the Indian eVisa is only valid at select airports and seaports.So, which airports allow entry with Indian eVisa?As of the most recent update, eVisa holders can enter India through the following 29 designated international airports:

1. Ahmedabad (AMD)
   
   
2. Amritsar (ATQ)
   
   
3. Bagdogra (IXB)
   
   
4. Bengaluru (BLR)
   
   
5. Bhubaneswar (BBI)
   
   
6. Calicut (CCJ)
   
   
7. Chandigarh (IXC)
   
   
8. Chennai (MAA)
   
   
9. Cochin (COK)
   
   
10. Coimbatore (CJB)
    
    
11. Delhi (DEL)
    
    
12. Gaya (GAY)
    
    
13. Goa (GOI)
    
    
14. Guwahati (GAU)
    
    
15. Hyderabad (HYD)
    
    
16. Jaipur (JAI)
    
    
17. Kannur (CNN)
    
    
18. Kolkata (CCU)
    
    
19. Lucknow (LKO)
    
    
20. Madurai (IXM)
    
    
21. Mangalore (IXE)
    
    
22. Mumbai (BOM)
    
    
23. Nagpur (NAG)
    
    
24. Pune (PNQ)
    
    
25. Port Blair (IXZ)
    
    
26. Tiruchirapalli (TRZ)
    
    
27. Trivandrum (TRV)
    
    
28. Varanasi (VNS)
    
    
29. Visakhapatnam (VTZ)
    
    

In addition to these airports, eVisa holders are also allowed entry via five major seaports:

• Cochin
  
  
• Goa
  
  
• Mangalore
  
  
• Mumbai
  
  
• Chennai
  
  

It’s important to plan your itinerary accordingly. If your travel involves landing at a non-approved port, you’ll need to apply for a traditional visa through an Indian consulate.

Steps to Apply for an Indian eVisa (Including for Minors)

Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for an Indian eVisa:

1. Visit the official Indian Visa Online Portal: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in
   
   
2. Select eVisa Application: Choose the appropriate visa type (Tourist, Business, Medical, etc.)
   
   
3. Fill in Personal Details: Include passport details, travel plans, and contact info.
   
   
4. Upload Required Documents:
   
   
   • Passport scan
     
     
   • Passport-size photograph
     
     
   • Birth certificate for minors (if applicable)
     
     
5. Pay the Visa Fee: Use a secure payment method to complete the process.
   
   
6. Receive ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization): This is typically emailed within 1–3 business days.
   
   
7. Print ETA and Carry During Travel: You’ll need to show this to immigration officials upon arrival.
   
   

Tips for Smooth Entry into India with a Visa

To ensure a hassle-free experience, keep these tips in mind:

• Apply Early: Though processing is quick, apply at least 4–7 days before your trip.
  
  
• Double-Check Entry Points: Ensure your airport of arrival is listed among the approved ones for eVisa.
  
  
• Travel Insurance: Strongly recommended, especially for families and minors.
  
  
• Keep Physical Copies: Even if your visa is digital, carry printouts of the ETA, passport, hotel booking, and return flight.
  
  
• Review Local Laws and Customs: Especially if you’re traveling with children, be aware of dress codes and public behavior expectations.
  
  

Can U.S. Citizens Extend Their Indian Visa?

Short answer: No, Indian eVisas are not extendable or convertible. If you plan to stay longer than the allowed period, you’ll need to exit and reapply. If your travel involves frequent or long-term stays, consider applying for a traditional long-duration visa through the Indian embassy.

Conclusion

Traveling to India is an enriching experience, and with the streamlined eVisa process, it’s easier than ever for U.S. citizens—including minors and children—to explore the country. Understanding the Indian visa for US citizens minors and children ensures that your entire family can travel without complications. Additionally, being aware of which airports allow entry with Indian eVisa helps you plan your trip more efficiently and avoid last-minute surprises.By following the correct visa process and ensuring all documents are in order, you'll be well on your way to experiencing the incredible sights, sounds, and flavors that India has to offer.