Swiss citizens can conveniently apply online for the India eVisa and explore India without hassle. Learn about India eVisa requirements, processing time
India, a land of staggering contrasts, vibrant cultures, and ancient wonders, calls out to the seasoned traveler. From the serene peaks of the Himalayas to the sun-kissed beaches of Goa, and the bustling, historic streets of Delhi, a journey through India is an unforgettable experience. For citizens of Switzerland, planning this magnificent trip has never been easier, thanks to the streamlined and efficient electronic visa (eVisa) system.
Gone are the days of mandatory visits to embassies or consulates just to get your paperwork started. The India eVisa program has digitized the process, making travel authorization quick, accessible, and entirely online. This comprehensive guide will walk every Swiss citizen through the eligibility, categories, application steps, and requirements to secure your digital entry permit to Incredible India.
The India eVisa is an official electronic travel authorization provided by the Government of India. It functions identically to a traditional paper visa but is issued digitally, eliminating the need for a physical sticker in your passport during the initial application phase.
This system was specifically designed to promote tourism and ease of business, and it is the preferred route for eligible nationals, including Swiss citizens.
Swiss passport holders are among the many nationalities privileged to utilize the convenient eVisa facility. However, certain conditions must be met to ensure a successful application:
The India eVisa system caters to various travel needs, each with specific validity and stay limits. Swiss citizens can choose from several categories based on their reason for visiting.
While the 1-year and India 5-year e-Tourist Visas offer multi-year validity and multiple entries, Swiss travelers must strictly adhere to the following stay rules:
If your travel plans exceed these continuous stay limits, you must contact the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in India for potential registration, but remember that the eVisa is non-extendable (except in the case of the e-Medical Visa).
Preparing your documentation digitally beforehand is the key to a fast and smooth application. Ensure all files meet the specified format and size Indian e-Visa requirements before you begin the online application.
The core documents required for the e-Tourist Visa are:
For e-Business and e-Medical visas, additional documents will be required:
The application is a simple, multi-step process that can be completed entirely online.
Select the eVisa option and click the ‘Apply for India Visa for Switzerland Citizens‘ button. You will first fill out the basic preliminary details, including your nationality, port of arrival, date of birth, and the required eVisa type. A temporary Application ID will be generated—save this immediately!
This is the most time-consuming part. You will systematically enter your personal, passport, family, and professional details. Be meticulous and ensure that every piece of information matches your Swiss passport exactly, especially your name and date of birth. Any error or discrepancy can lead to the rejection of the application and forfeiture of the fee.
Using the checklist above, upload the scanned copy of your passport bio-page (in PDF format) and your digital passport-style photograph (in JPEG format). The system will usually provide a cropping tool to ensure the photograph meets the exact specifications. If the file sizes are wrong, the upload will fail.
Before proceeding to payment, a crucial review section allows you to check all the data you have entered. This is your last chance to make corrections. Double-check names, dates, passport numbers, and visa category selected. Once submitted and paid, modifications are not permitted, and a new application (with a new fee) would be necessary for any correction.
The fee is calculated based on your nationality, the chosen visa type, and the duration (30-day, 1-year, or 5-year). Payment must be made online using a credit or debit card. There may be a small processing fee charged by the bank. Once the transaction is complete, you will receive a payment confirmation.
After successful submission, the standard processing time for a routine application is typically 72 hours (3 to 5 business days). You can track your application status using the ID provided in Step 1. Once approved, the ETA document will be sent to the email address you provided.
Once you have your ETA in your inbox, there are two final, non-negotiable steps:
The eVisa is valid for entry only through specific, authorized Immigration Check Posts (ICPs). This includes 29 major international airports and 5 seaports across the country.
Designated Major Airports Include:
Always confirm the latest list of designated entry points on the official Government of India eVisa website before booking flights.
To wrap up this guide, here are quick answers to some frequently asked questions by Swiss travelers.
Do I need to visit the Indian Embassy in Bern?
No. The eVisa process is entirely online. Visiting the Embassy is only necessary if you require a Regular Paper Visa.
What if my eVisa application is rejected?
You will need to re-apply, correct any errors or omissions, and pay the fee again. Fees are non-refundable.
When is the best time to apply?
Apply at least 4 days before your flight, but ideally two to three weeks in advance to allow for any unforeseen delays. The earliest you can apply is 120 days before arrival.
Can I travel with an eVisa on an old passport?
If you obtain a new passport after the eVisa has been issued on the old one, you must carry both the new valid passport and the old passport bearing the ETA documentation.
Can I change the purpose of my visit once in India?
No. The eVisa is generally non-convertible. Changing your purpose (e.g., from tourist to business) is strictly prohibited.
The India eVisa for Swiss citizens represents a smooth and modern pathway to experiencing the breathtaking diversity of India. By following this guide and ensuring meticulous attention to detail during the application, your journey can begin with confidence and ease. Now, all that’s left is to start planning your itinerary!
