India has long been a magnet for travelers from around the world, known for its rich history, vibrant cultures, spiritual heritage, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether your trip is for tourism, business, education, or visiting family, understanding the visa options available, the application process, and the requirements specific to Swiss passport holders is essential for a smooth and hassle-free journey.

This comprehensive guide is designed to help Swiss travelers confidently approach the India visa process, from choosing the appropriate visa type to submitting your application and preparing for your adventure ahead. Get ready to unlock the door to India, your gateway to unforgettable experiences, cultural discoveries, and incredible memories awaits.

Do Swiss citizens need a visa for India?

Yes, Swiss citizens are required to obtain a visa to travel to India. However, the process has been streamlined through the introduction of the Indian e-Visa system, which allows Swiss nationals to apply for a visa online without the need to visit an Indian embassy or consulate. This system is available for various purposes.

India e-Visa types available for Swiss citizens

This system offers various visa types tailored to different travel purposes.

1. e-Tourist Visa

The e-Tourist Visa is the most popular option for Swiss travelers visiting India for leisure, sightseeing, family visits, short-term yoga programs, or casual meetings. It is available in three variants, each designed to suit different travel needs:

30-Day Tourist Visa: Valid for 30 days from the date of entry, allowing double entry.
1-Year Tourist Visa: Valid for 365 days from the date of grant, permitting multiple entries.
5-Year Tourist Visa: Valid for 5 years from the date of grant, with multiple entries allowed.

2. e-Business Visa

The e-Business Visa is intended for Swiss citizens visiting India for business-related purposes such as attending meetings, trade fairs, exhibitions, or establishing business ventures.

Validity: 1 year from the date of grant.
Entries: It permits multiple entries, making it convenient for business travelers with recurring needs.

3. e-Medical Visa

This visa is for Swiss nationals seeking short-term medical treatment in India, which is increasingly recognized for its high-quality and affordable healthcare.

Validity: 60 days from the date of arrival.
Entries: It permits triple entry, allowing patients to enter and exit India up to three times during the 60-day period. This is helpful for follow-up consultations or emergency returns.

4. e-Medical Attendant Visa

This visa is issued to individuals accompanying a patient traveling on an e-Medical Visa. Each patient can be accompanied by a maximum of two attendants.

Validity: 60 days from the date of arrival.
Entries: Allows triple entry, ensuring companions can assist throughout the treatment period.
Eligibility: Typically granted to close relatives or caretakers of the patient, such as spouses, children, or parents.

5. e-Conference Visa

The e-Conference Visa is available for Swiss citizens invited to attend conferences or seminars organized by Indian government ministries or recognized institutions.

Validity: Valid for 30 days from the date of arrival.
Entries: Allows single entry only.
Purpose: Participation in government-approved conferences, academic events, or workshops. Applicants must present an official invitation and clearance details from the host organization in India.

How to apply for an India e-Visa for Swiss citizens

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the application:

1. Access the official e-visa portal

Begin by visiting the official Indian e-Visa website. This is the authorized platform for e-Visa applications.

2. Complete the online application form

Fill out the online application form with accurate personal details, passport information, and travel plans. The form comprises multiple sections and may take approximately 15–20 minutes to complete. Ensure all information is correct to avoid processing delays.

3. Upload required documents

You will need to upload the following documents:

Passport photo: A recent color photograph with a white background.
Passport scan: A clear scan of the biographical page of your passport, which must be valid for at least six months from your intended date of arrival in India.
Additional documents may be required depending on the type of e-Visa:

4. Pay the e-Visa fee

After completing the application and uploading documents, proceed to pay the visa fee using a credit or debit card. The fee varies depending on the type and duration of the visa.

5. Receive the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)

Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) via email. Print a copy of the ETA to present upon arrival in India.

6. Travel to India

Upon arrival at one of the designated airports or seaports in India, present your printed ETA and passport at the immigration counter. Your e-Visa will be stamped into your passport, granting you entry into the country.

Requirements for Swiss citizens to apply for an India e-Visa

Swiss citizens planning to visit India using the e-Visa system must meet specific requirements to ensure a smooth and successful application process. Below are the essential criteria and documents needed:

1. A valid Swiss passport

Your passport must be:

An ordinary passport (not diplomatic, official, or refugee).
Valid for at least 6 months from your expected date of arrival in India.
Contain at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.

2. Recent passport-style photograph

You need to upload a recent color photo taken within the last 6 months.
The photo should have a white or light background, and your face must be clearly visible.
Avoid wearing glasses or headgear unless for religious purposes.
The image must meet standard biometric photo guidelines and be in JPEG or PNG format.

3. Scanned copy of the passport’s biographical page

This is the page of your passport showing your name, date of birth, nationality, and passport number.
The scan should be clear and legible, with no glare or blur.
File must typically be in PDF or JPEG format and within the maximum upload size limits.

4. Valid payment method

A credit or debit card is required to pay the visa application fee online.
Visa fees vary depending on the type and duration of the e-Visa you are applying for.
Make sure the card is internationally enabled.

5. Active email address

You must have a valid email address to receive your application confirmation, status updates, and the final e-Visa approval (Electronic Travel Authorization or ETA).
This ETA must be printed and presented upon arrival in India.

6. Stable internet connection and device

You will need a computer or mobile device with internet access to complete the application form, upload documents, and make payment.

Additional documents based on visa type:

If applying for an e-Business Visa, you may be asked for a business card or an invitation letter from the Indian company you're visiting.
For an e-Medical Visa, a letter from the hospital in India explaining the nature of treatment is required.
If you're accompanying someone on an e-Medical Attendant Visa, you'll need to show proof of your relationship with the patient.
Applicants for an e-Conference Visa must provide an invitation from the conference organizers and approval from the Government of India.

India e-Visa processing time for Swiss citizens

Swiss citizens applying for an Indian e-Visa can expect a standard processing time of approximately 72 hours (3 business days) after submitting a complete application with all required documents.

To accommodate potential delays and ensure timely receipt of your e-Visa, it is advisable to apply at least 4 to 7 days before your intended travel date. This buffer period accounts for any unforeseen processing issues.

Common delaying reasons:

Incomplete or inaccurate application: Applications with incorrect or inconsistent details such as misspelled names, wrong passport numbers, or mismatched information, may be delayed for manual verification.
Poor quality of uploaded documents: Blurry or low-resolution scans and photos that don’t meet the required specifications (like improper background or lighting) can cause processing delays or rejections.
Additional verification required: Some applications are flagged for extra security checks, especially if there are concerns about travel history or name matches on watchlists, leading to longer processing times.
Technical issues on the e-Visa portal: Problems such as payment failures or upload errors on the online platform may cause unexpected delays.
High application volume during peak seasons: Increased demand around festivals, holidays, or major events can slow down processing times due to the higher number of applications.

India e-visa fees for Swiss citizens

For Swiss citizens applying for an Indian e-Visa in 2025, the fees vary based on the type of visa and the time of year. Below is a detailed breakdown of the applicable fees:

Visa Type	Validity	Fee (USD)
e-Tourist Visa	30 days (April–June)	$10
	30 days (July–March)	$25
	1 year	$40
	5 years	$80
e-Business Visa	1 year	$80
e-Medical Visa	60 days	$80
e-Conference Visa	30 days	$80
e-Medical Attendant Visa	60 days	$80

Additional information:

A 3% bank transaction fee applies to payments made by credit/debit card.
Visa fees are non-refundable, even if the visa is denied or withdrawn.

190eVisa: A Trusted Partner for Your India e-Visa

Navigating the process of obtaining an India e-Visa can sometimes feel complex and time-consuming. That’s where 190eVisa steps in as your reliable partner. With expert guidance, user-friendly services, and fast processing support, 190eVisa helps Swiss citizens and travelers from around the world secure their Indian e-Visas quickly and hassle-free.

Whether you’re applying for a tourist, business, medical, or conference visa, 190eVisa ensures a smooth experience from start to finish, making your journey to India easier than ever before.

Conclusion

For Swiss citizens planning to visit India, obtaining an e-Visa offers a convenient and efficient way to experience the rich culture, history, and business opportunities the country has to offer. Understanding and preparing the necessary documents, such as a valid Swiss passport, recent photograph, and supporting letters (if applicable), is essential to ensure a smooth application process.

Partnering with trusted services like 190eVisa can simplify the process further by providing expert assistance and reliable support throughout the application journey. By following the guidelines carefully and submitting a complete application on time, Swiss travelers can look forward to a hassle-free entry into India and an unforgettable travel experience.

Apply for your India e-Visa today and unlock a world of incredible experiences! Let 190eVisa guide you every step of the way. Start your application now and get ready to discover India!

India Visa For Swiss Citizens: An Ultimate Guide For E-Visa Application

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