Do children need a tourist visa for India

India is one of the world’s most fascinating travel destinations, attracting families from every corner of the globe. Many parents planning a trip to India often ask: Do children need a tourist visa for India? The answer is yes. Every foreign national, regardless of age—including newborn babies, infants, and minors—must hold a valid visa to enter India.

This article provides a detailed guide on the tourist visa requirements for children visiting India, types of visas available, required documents, and application procedures.

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Are Children Required to Have a Tourist Visa for India?

Yes. Children, irrespective of age, require a tourist visa to visit India. Even if parents already hold valid visas, minors traveling with them must have their own individual visa. Children cannot be included on their parents’ visa.

Whether you are applying for an e-Tourist Visa or a regular tourist visa, the same rules apply to children.

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Types of Tourist Visas for Children

1. e-Tourist Visa (eTV)

• Applied online via the official Indian visa portal.

• Valid for 30 days, 1 year, or 5 years.

• Allows multiple entries depending on the visa type.

• Processing time: 3–5 working days (urgent processing available).

2. Regular Tourist Visa (Sticker Visa)

• Applied through Indian Embassies/Consulates abroad.

• Validity ranges from 6 months to 10 years, depending on nationality.

• Processing time: 5–15 working days.

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Documents Required for a Child’s Tourist Visa

When applying for a tourist visa for a child, the following documents are usually required:

• Valid Passport of the Child (minimum 6 months validity with at least two blank pages).

• Recent Passport-size Photograph of the child (as per Indian visa specifications).

• Birth Certificate of the child.

• Parent’s Passport and Visa Copies (to show relationship and travel details).

• Consent Letter from Parents (signed by both parents, authorizing the child’s travel).

• Travel Itinerary (flight bookings and accommodation proof).

• Financial Proof (parent’s bank statements to show funds for the trip).

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How to Apply for a Child’s Tourist Visa

Step 1: Choose the Visa Type

Decide between an e-Tourist Visa (faster, online process) or a regular tourist visa (longer validity, embassy application).

Step 2: Complete the Application Form

• For e-Visa: Fill in the online form on the official portal.

• For regular visa: Submit the application through the Indian Embassy/Consulate in your country.

Step 3: Submit Documents

Upload or provide all required documents, including the child’s passport, birth certificate, and parent’s details.

Step 4: Pay Visa Fees

Visa fees depend on nationality, duration, and type of visa applied.

Step 5: Receive the Visa

• e-Visa: Approval emailed within 3–5 working days.

• Regular Visa: Issued within 5–15 working days by the embassy.

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Special Considerations for Children’s Tourist Visas

• Newborn Babies: Even if a baby is only a few weeks old, they must have their own passport and visa to travel to India.

• Traveling with One Parent: A notarized consent letter from the other parent may be required.

• School-aged Children: Proof of enrollment or a school letter may sometimes be requested.

• Multiple Entries: For frequent family visits, a 5-year multiple entry tourist visa is often recommended.

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Can a Child’s Tourist Visa Be Extended in India?

In general, tourist visas for children cannot be extended beyond the permitted stay, except in exceptional circumstances (such as medical emergencies). Parents must apply through the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in India if an extension is necessary.

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Conclusion

Yes, children need a tourist visa to travel to India. From infants to teenagers, every minor must have a valid passport and an individual visa, just like adults. Parents should prepare the necessary documents in advance to avoid last-minute delays.

At Online Passport Agents, we specialize in fast, reliable, and government-approved visa and passport services for families. Whether you are applying for your child’s tourist visa, passport, or extensions, our dedicated team ensures a smooth and hassle-free process.