Top Reasons for Indian e-Visa Disapproval and How to Avoid Them
Applying for an e-visa is simple and straightforward. However, mistakes cannot be made when filling out an e-Visa form, as it will lead to straight rejection. Many travelers' e-visa requests get rejected and they wonder why. Read the top reasons for Indian e-visa rejection and how you can avoid them.
Requirements for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to India
Before you start applying for an Indian e-Visa, you must understand all the requirements for a successful application. Your application may be denied for even the smallest mistakes.
Here's what you need for an Indian e-Visa:
A Regular Passport
You must have a normal, everyday passport. Special passports, like diplomatic ones, won't work.
A Way to Pay Online
You'll need a debit or credit card to pay for your e-Visa.
Your Current email Address
Make sure this is your active email ID.
A Clean Record
You shouldn't have any criminal history.
The Right Documents
You'll need to provide certain documents when applying for Indian e-Visa. Check what documents are required for your type of e-Visa.
Incomplete or Incorrect Personal Information
Incomplete or incorrect personal details are the top reason for disapproval. It includes full name, date of birth, and passport information of the passport holder
Solution: Before submitting your e-Visa application, cross-check all your information. Use your full name as it appears in your passport, including middle names. Avoid using nicknames or initials.
Passport Issues
Your e-Visa application might be rejected if your passport is expiring soon or if it's not an ordinary passport.
Solution: Make sure that your passport is valid for 6 months (and these 6 months counts from your date of arrival in India). Only apply with an ordinary passport - diplomatic or other special passports aren't eligible for e-Visas.
Inappropriate Photograph
Uploading a photo that doesn't meet the required specifications can lead to rejection.
Solution: Check passport requirements and use a recent passport-style photo with a clear, front-facing view against a plain background. Avoid using selfies or casual photos.
Mismatch in Visa Type
Applying for the wrong type of e-Visa for your visit purpose can result in rejection.
Solution: Before applying, specify your purpose for visiting India. If you're going for tourism, apply for a tourist e-Visa. For business meetings or trade, opt for an Indian business e-Visa.
Criminal Background
Hiding a criminal record, even a minor one, can lead to immediate rejection and future travel complications.
Solution: Be honest about your background. If you have a criminal record, it's better to apply for a regular visa through the Indian embassy or consulate.
Insufficient Funds
Not having enough financial resources to support your stay in India can be grounds for rejection.
Solution: Be prepared to show proof of sufficient funds. It could be your bank statements, credit card limits, or traveler's checks.
Multiple Applications
Submitting multiple e-Visa applications, especially if you already have a valid e-Visa, can lead to rejection.
Solution: If you've lost your e-Visa confirmation, contact the Indian visa authorities instead of applying again. Keep a digital copy of your e-Visa for easy access.
Poor Quality Document Scans
Uploading blurry or incomplete scans of your passport or other required documents can cause rejection.
Solution: Ensure all document scans are clear and complete. The entire document should be visible, including all edges and corners.
Incorrect Reference Information
Providing inaccurate reference details for your stay in India can lead to rejection.
Solution: Double-check all reference information, including addresses and contact numbers in India. If staying at a hotel, use their official contact details.
Medical Visa Complications
For medical visas, missing or incorrect documentation from the Indian hospital can cause rejection.
Solution: Ensure you have a clear, official letter from the Indian hospital you'll be visiting, detailing your treatment plan and dates.
Be honest and careful while filling out the Indian e-visa application form. Being transparent and filling out all the requirements increases your e-visa approval chances.
Citizens of many countries including Italy, Romania, France, Malaysia, Russia and Netherlands are eligible for Indian e-Visa.