India Visa RequirementsFor China passport holders
Chinese passport holders can apply for an Indian e-Visa online, which covers tourism, business, and medical stays. However, due to ongoing diplomatic tensions between India and China, the application process may be subject to delays and stricter scrutiny, and some applicants are denied. Land border crossings are not covered by the e-Visa.
China passport holders must apply for an electronic visa (eVisa) online before traveling to India.
Apply at indianvisaonline.gov.in. Select the appropriate category: e-Tourist Visa (30, 90, or 180 days, with up to 2 entries), e-Business Visa (180 days, multiple entry), or e-Medical Visa (60 days, triple entry). You will need a digital passport photo, a scan of the bio-data page of your passport, and a credit or debit card to pay USD 25. Print the e-Visa confirmation email and present it at immigration along with your passport.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
China to India: What You Need to Know
India-China diplomatic relations have experienced significant strains since the 2020 Galwan Valley border clash, which led India to restrict Chinese nationals traveling for tourism and business. As of 2024, the Indian e-Visa is technically available to Chinese citizens, but approval rates can be lower than for other nationalities, and processing times may exceed the standard 3 to 4 business days. Chinese applicants should apply well in advance (at least 4 weeks before travel) and be prepared for the possibility of denial. The e-Visa is not valid for entry via land borders from Pakistan, Nepal, or Bangladesh.
Practical Tips
Book flights that arrive at one of the 28 designated e-Visa airports (including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai) to avoid complications. Travel insurance is strongly recommended, especially given the health and political environment. Download offline maps (maps.me or Google Maps offline) as mobile data can be unreliable in rural areas. The Indian Rupee is a closed currency and cannot be purchased outside India; exchange money at the airport or authorized banks on arrival.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Chinese citizens get an Indian e-Visa?
Yes, the Indian e-Visa is technically available to Chinese citizens for tourism, business, and medical purposes. However, due to India-China diplomatic tensions since 2020, approval rates may be lower and processing times longer than for other nationalities. Apply at least 4 weeks before your intended travel date.
What are the India-China diplomatic restrictions on travel?
Following the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, India tightened entry for Chinese nationals. Direct group tours were suspended, and individual applications face additional scrutiny. As of 2024, tourism e-Visas are available but individual approvals are not guaranteed. Monitor the latest advisories from the Indian Embassy in Beijing before planning travel.
Can I enter India from Nepal or Pakistan by land with an Indian e-Visa?
No. The Indian e-Visa is only valid at 28 designated airports and 5 designated seaports. It does not cover land border entry points, including those from Nepal, Pakistan, or Bangladesh. If you plan to enter by land, you must obtain a regular Indian visa from the Indian Embassy in Beijing or Consulates in Shanghai, Guangzhou, or Kolkata.
What payment methods work in India for Chinese travelers?
UnionPay cards are accepted at major banks, hotels, and some ATMs in India. Alipay is not widely accepted. Cash in Indian Rupees (INR) is essential for markets, auto-rickshaws, and small restaurants. ATMs are available at airports and city centers. INR is a restricted currency and cannot be purchased outside India, so exchange at the airport or an authorized bank on arrival.