India Visa RequirementsFor Germany passport holders
German citizens can obtain an Indian evisa (e-Tourist Visa) online for USD 25, valid for 30 or 90 days depending on the category. India is one of the world's most diverse long-haul destinations.
Germany passport holders must apply for an electronic visa (eVisa) online before traveling to India.
Apply at indianvisaonline.gov.in at least 4 days before travel. Cost: USD 25 (plus service fee). Passport must be valid at least 6 months with 2 blank pages. Upload a recent digital photo and passport scan. Approval usually takes 2-3 business days.
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
Germany to India: What You Need to Know
India's e-Visa system allows German citizens to apply online at the official Indian government e-Visa portal before travel. The e-Tourist Visa (30-day single entry or 90-day double entry) costs USD 25 for most nationalities including Germany. The e-Visa is linked electronically to the passport and must be printed or shown digitally at immigration. India's vast geography encompasses the Taj Mahal, Rajasthan (Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur), Kerala backwaters, Goa beaches, Varanasi, Mumbai, Delhi, Himalayas (Ladakh), and Darjeeling. Lufthansa and Air India offer direct flights from Frankfurt and Munich to Delhi and Mumbai.
Practical Tips
India uses the Indian rupee (INR). Major airports have pre-paid taxi counters; use these to avoid overcharging. Drink only bottled or purified water; food hygiene varies widely. Carry digital and printed copies of your e-Visa. The Indian railway network is vast and bookable via IRCTC; book tourist quota seats well in advance. Traveler's diarrhea is common; carry oral rehydration salts. Carry small denomination notes for rickshaws and markets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do German citizens need a visa for India?
Yes, but an easy online e-Visa is available. German citizens can apply for an Indian e-Tourist Visa online at indianvisaonline.gov.in. The 30-day single-entry e-Visa costs USD 25. A 90-day double-entry option is also available. Apply at least 4 days before your travel date.
How do I apply for the Indian e-Visa?
Visit indianvisaonline.gov.in and select "Apply e-Visa." You will need to upload a passport scan and digital photo, provide your travel dates and accommodation details, and pay USD 25 online. Processing typically takes 2-3 business days. Print or save the approved ETA electronically to show at arrival.
What documents do I need to enter India as a German citizen?
You need a valid German passport (at least 6 months validity, 2 blank pages), a printed or digital copy of your approved e-Visa, and onward or return travel documents. Customs declaration forms are completed on arrival.
Is tap water safe to drink in India?
No. Tap water is not safe for foreign travelers throughout India. Drink only sealed bottled water, and use it for brushing teeth as well. Avoid ice in drinks at street stalls. Most restaurants and hotels serve safe bottled water. Carry oral rehydration sachets as a precaution.