US citizens pay $25 for a 30-day India e-Visa, $40 for a 1-year, and $80 for a 5-year e-Tourist Visa – plus a 2.5% bank processing surcharge on each payment. These fees are set by the Indian government and paid in US dollars through the official portal at indianvisaonline.gov.in. This guide breaks down every fee you will encounter as an American applying for an Indian e-Visa in 2026.
India e-Visa Fees for US Citizens at a Glance
The table below shows the exact government fees US passport holders pay for each e-Visa category and duration:
| e-Visa Type | Duration | Government Fee (USD) | With Bank Fee (~2.5%) | Validity | Entries |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| e-Tourist (e-T1) | 30 Days | $25 | ~$25.63 | 30 days from arrival | Multiple |
| e-Tourist (e-T1) | 1 Year | $40 | ~$41.00 | 365 days from ETA | Multiple |
| e-Tourist (e-T1) | 5 Years | $80 | ~$82.00 | 5 years from ETA | Multiple |
| e-Business (e-B1) | 1 Year | $80 | ~$82.00 | 365 days from ETA | Multiple |
| e-Medical (e-M1) | 60 Days | $25 | ~$25.63 | 60 days from arrival | Triple |
| e-Medical Attendant (e-M2) | 60 Days | $25 | ~$25.63 | 60 days from arrival | Triple |
| e-Conference (e-C) | 30 Days | $25 | ~$25.63 | 30 days | Single |
US citizens fall into the $25 tier for the 30-day e-Tourist Visa. This is higher than the $10 tier that applies to most Asian, African, and Latin American nationalities, but the 1-year and 5-year fees are the same for everyone.
30-Day e-Tourist Visa: $25 for Americans
The 30-day e-Tourist Visa is the cheapest and fastest option for US citizens visiting India for tourism. Here is what to know:
- Government fee: $25 (paid in USD)
- Total with bank fee: Approximately $25.63
- Validity: 30 days from the date of arrival in India
- Entry type: Double entry (you can leave and re-enter once)
- Extension: Not extendable and not convertible to another visa type
- Processing time: Typically 3 to 5 business days
This visa works well for short vacations, cultural trips, or visiting family. If there is any chance your trip could extend beyond 30 days, consider the 1-year option instead – the 30-day visa cannot be extended once issued.
For a full breakdown of tourist visa options, see our India Tourist e-Visa guide.
1-Year e-Tourist Visa: $40 for Americans
The 1-year e-Tourist Visa offers significantly more flexibility for a modest price increase:
- Government fee: $40 (paid in USD)
- Total with bank fee: Approximately $41.00
- Validity: 365 days from the date the ETA is granted (not from arrival)
- Entry type: Multiple entry
- Maximum stay per calendar year: 180 days total
- Processing time: Typically 3 to 5 business days
The 1-year visa is ideal if you plan to visit India more than once in a year, or if your single trip might last longer than 30 days. You can enter and exit India as many times as you want within the validity period, but your total days in the country cannot exceed 180 in any calendar year.
5-Year e-Tourist Visa: $80 for Americans
The 5-year e-Tourist Visa is the best value for frequent travelers to India:
- Government fee: $80 (paid in USD)
- Total with bank fee: Approximately $82.00
- Validity: 5 years from the date the ETA is granted
- Entry type: Multiple entry
- Maximum stay per calendar year: 180 days total
- Processing time: Typically 3 to 5 business days
At $80 for five years, this visa costs just $16 per year if you visit India annually. It eliminates the need to reapply for each trip and gives you the freedom to plan multiple visits over a long period. Like the 1-year option, the 180-day annual cap applies.
e-Business Visa Fee for US Citizens: $80
US citizens traveling to India for business purposes pay $80 for a 1-year e-Business Visa:
- Government fee: $80
- Total with bank fee: Approximately $82.00
- Validity: 365 days from ETA grant
- Entry type: Multiple entry
- Covers: Business meetings, trade shows, commercial activities, and setting up industrial ventures
The e-Business Visa does not permit employment. If you need to work in India, you will need a regular Employment Visa applied for at an Indian embassy, which costs $160 for US citizens.
For complete business visa details, visit our India Business e-Visa guide.
e-Medical Visa Fee for US Citizens: $25
US citizens seeking medical treatment in India pay $25 for the e-Medical Visa:
- Government fee: $25
- Total with bank fee: Approximately $25.63
- Validity: 60 days from arrival
- Entry type: Triple entry (three entries within 60 days)
- Requirements: Letter from a recognized Indian hospital
Up to two family members can accompany the patient on e-Medical Attendant Visas at the same $25 fee each.
Bank Processing Fees Explained
Every India e-Visa payment includes a non-refundable bank surcharge on top of the government fee:
| Payment Detail | Amount |
|---|---|
| Bank surcharge rate | 2.5% to 3% of visa fee |
| Minimum surcharge | Approximately $2 |
| Payment gateways | SBI ePay and Axis Bank |
| Accepted cards | Visa, Mastercard, American Express |
| Payment wallets | Available (varies by gateway) |
The bank fee covers the secure online transaction processing through SBI ePay or Axis Bank. This fee is charged regardless of whether the visa is approved or rejected, and it is non-refundable.
How the $25 e-Tourist Fee Compares to Regular Visas
US citizens who apply for a regular (stamp) visa at an Indian embassy or consulate pay significantly more:
| Visa Route | Fee for US Citizens | Processing Time | Maximum Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| e-Tourist Visa (30-day) | $25 | 3-5 days | 30 days |
| e-Tourist Visa (5-year) | $80 | 3-5 days | 5 years |
| Regular Tourist Visa (embassy) | $160 | 5-15 days | Up to 10 years |
| Regular Business Visa (embassy) | $160 | 5-15 days | Up to 5 years |
The e-Visa is the clear winner for cost and speed. The only reason to choose the regular visa is if you need a 10-year validity, are not eligible for an e-Visa, or need a visa type not available electronically.
For a complete fee comparison across all visa types, see our India Visa Fees guide.
How US Citizens Pay India e-Visa Fees
Payment happens online during the application process. You cannot submit your e-Visa application without completing the payment.
Payment Steps
- Complete the e-Visa application at indianvisaonline.gov.in
- Upload your passport photo and passport bio page scan
- Click “Pay e-Visa Fee Online”
- Select your payment gateway: SBI ePay or Axis Bank
- Enter your credit or debit card details
- Confirm the payment (the screen shows the exact amount including bank fee)
- Save your payment confirmation and reference number
Tips for US Applicants
- Use a US credit card – Visa, Mastercard, and American Express all work
- Check for foreign transaction fees – Some US cards charge 1% to 3% on international transactions, which is separate from the bank surcharge
- Keep your reference number – You need it to check your application status
- Do not use unofficial websites – Fake sites charge $100 or more for e-Visas that cost $25 to $80 on the official portal
For step-by-step application instructions, see our guide on how to apply for India e-Visa online.
Refund Policy for India e-Visa Fees
Understanding the refund rules before you pay:
- e-Visa fees are non-refundable once the application is submitted
- Failed payments reverse automatically within 5 to 7 business days
- Duplicate payments may be refunded after contacting the helpdesk
- Visa rejection does not qualify for a refund – the fee covers processing, not approval
- No express or emergency surcharge exists – the Indian government does not charge extra for faster processing
If any website charges you additional fees for “expedited” or “priority” e-Visa processing, that is a scam. The official processing time is the same for everyone.
Third-Party Agent Fees vs Self-Application
Many US travelers wonder whether to use a visa agent or apply directly:
| Approach | Total Cost (30-day) | Total Cost (5-year) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-application (official portal) | ~$25.63 | ~$82.00 | 3-5 days |
| Online visa agency | $55 – $125 | $110 – $180 | 3-5 days |
| Travel agency | $100 – $225 | $155 – $280 | 3-5 days |
The government fee is the same regardless of whether you apply yourself or through an agent. Agents charge their own markup on top. The e-Visa application is straightforward enough that most US travelers can complete it in 15 to 20 minutes without help.
India e-Visa Fees for US Citizens FAQ
How much does the India e-Visa cost for US citizens in 2026?
US citizens pay $25 for a 30-day e-Tourist Visa, $40 for a 1-year, and $80 for a 5-year. A bank processing fee of 2.5% is added to each payment. The e-Business Visa costs $80 and the e-Medical Visa costs $25.
Why do US citizens pay more for the 30-day e-Visa than other nationalities?
India uses a tiered fee system based on nationality. US, UK, Canadian, and Australian citizens pay $25 for the 30-day e-Tourist Visa, while citizens of most Asian, African, and Latin American countries pay $10. This is due to reciprocal fee arrangements between governments. The 1-year and 5-year fees are the same for all nationalities.
Can I get a free India e-Visa as a US citizen?
No. India does not offer free e-Visas to US passport holders. The minimum fee is $25 for a 30-day e-Tourist Visa, plus a bank surcharge. Diplomatic and official passport holders from certain countries may qualify for fee exemptions, but standard US tourist and business passports do not.
Is the India e-Visa fee refundable if I cancel my trip?
No. India e-Visa fees are non-refundable once the application is submitted, regardless of the reason for cancellation. This includes voluntary cancellation, change of plans, or unused visas. Only failed or duplicate payments may be refunded.
Do US children need to pay the full e-Visa fee?
Yes. Every applicant, including infants and children, needs a separate e-Visa with the full fee paid. There is no reduced rate for minors on e-Visas. A family of four (two adults, two children) applying for 30-day e-Tourist Visas would pay approximately $102.50 total.
How much does a 10-year Indian visa cost for US citizens?
US citizens can get a 10-year regular tourist visa at an Indian embassy or consulate for $160. This is a stamp visa – not an e-Visa – and requires an in-person application. Additional service center fees of $15 to $25 may apply. The e-Visa program does not offer a 10-year option.
Are there any hidden fees when applying for an India e-Visa?
The only mandatory fees are the government visa fee and the 2.5% to 3% bank processing surcharge. Your US credit card may also charge a foreign transaction fee of 1% to 3%, which goes to your card issuer – not to India. No other official fees exist. Beware of unofficial websites that add service charges.
Can I pay for my India e-Visa in Indian rupees?
No. The e-Visa fee is charged in US dollars (USD) regardless of your nationality. If your credit card is denominated in another currency, your bank will convert the charge at their exchange rate. US citizens with USD cards will not incur currency conversion fees from their bank, though foreign transaction fees may still apply.
What is the cheapest Indian visa option for US citizens?
The cheapest option is the 30-day e-Tourist Visa at $25 (approximately $25.63 with the bank fee). This is available entirely online through indianvisaonline.gov.in and typically processes within 3 to 5 business days. There is no cheaper official visa option for US citizens traveling to India.
Do I need to pay again if my India e-Visa is rejected?
Yes. If your application is rejected, the fee is not refunded and you must pay again with a new application. To reduce the risk of rejection, ensure your passport scan is clear, your photo meets requirements, and all information matches your passport exactly. See our India visa requirements guide for details.
