India Visa RequirementsFor Ireland passport holders
Irish citizens can visit India by applying for an e-Visa online before departure. The e-Tourist Visa costs around $25 USD, is valid for 1 year from the date of issue, and allows double entry with stays up to 90 days each. No embassy visit is required.
Ireland 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 is approximately $25 USD (exact fee varies slightly by time of year). Upload a digital photo and passport scan. Upon approval you receive an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) by email. Print or save this email. On arrival at designated e-Visa airports (including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru) you will be directed to the e-Visa immigration lane.
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
Required Documents
For Your Visa Application
Passport Photo
One recent passport-sized photograph (may be requested at entry).
India e-Tourist Visa Approval
Applied for online at indianvisaonline.gov.in at least 4 days before travel. Print the approval or save it on your device. Present it at the e-Visa immigration lane.
Digital Passport-Size Photograph
Required for the online eVisa application. Must be recent, on a white background, and meet specified dimensions.
Credit or Debit Card for eVisa Payment
Required to pay the $25 USD eVisa fee online.
Required at Entry
Valid Passport
Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay with at least 2 blank pages.
India eVisa Printout
Printed copy of your India e-Tourist Visa approval. Must be presented at immigration.
Valid Irish Passport
The passport used for the eVisa application must be presented. Ensure it has at least 6 months validity and two blank pages.
Return or Onward Ticket
Proof of onward or return travel from India.
Return or Onward Ticket
Proof of departure from India.
Proof of Accommodation Recommended
Hotel bookings or address of accommodation for at least the first night.
Travel Insurance Recommended
Recommended. Some insurance policies now require confirmation before entry.
Current Travel Situation
Ireland to India: What You Need to Know
India introduced the e-Visa system for Irish passport holders, replacing the requirement to visit an Indian consulate. The e-Tourist Visa (eTV) is processed entirely online through the Indian government portal and is typically approved within 72 hours, though applicants are advised to apply at least 4 days before departure. The e-Visa is valid for multiple categories including tourism, business, and medical treatment. The e-Tourist Visa allows double entry within its 1-year validity.
How to Get There
From India, overland and air connections reach Nepal (Kathmandu is a 2-hour flight from Delhi or Mumbai), Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. The Golden Temple at Amritsar near the Pakistan border is accessible by road from Delhi.
Money & Banking
India uses the Indian Rupee (INR). The Rupee is a restricted currency and cannot be taken in or out of India in large quantities. Exchange money at airports or authorized money changers. Cards are accepted in hotels and larger restaurants but cash is essential for almost all daily transactions, markets, local transport, and smaller venues. ATMs are available in cities but can be unreliable.
Practical Tips
India is one of the world's most diverse and compelling travel destinations but also one of the most challenging for first-time visitors. The Golden Triangle (Delhi-Agra-Jaipur) is the classic starting itinerary. Rajasthan, Kerala, Goa, Hampi, and Varanasi are among the many highlights. Tap water is not safe to drink: bottled water only. Food hygiene varies widely: eat at busy, popular establishments. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Irish citizens need a visa for India?
Yes. Irish citizens need an e-Visa before traveling to India. The e-Tourist Visa costs approximately $25 USD and is applied for online before departure.
How do I apply for an India e-Visa?
Apply at indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa at least 4 days before travel (ideally 2 weeks). Upload a passport photo and passport scan, pay $25 USD by card, and receive approval by email.
How do I apply for an India eVisa as an Irish citizen?
Apply online at indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa before travel. Cost is USD 25. Apply at least 4 days before departure, preferably 2 weeks. Print the eVisa approval to show at entry.
How long is the India e-Tourist Visa valid?
The e-Tourist Visa is valid for 1 year from the date of issue and allows double entry with up to 90 days per visit.
What are the requirements for the India eVisa application?
You need a valid Irish passport (with at least 6 months validity), a passport photo uploaded digitally, and a credit or debit card for the USD 25 fee. Provide accommodation details and return flight information.
Which airports in India accept e-Visa arrivals?
The e-Visa is valid for entry at designated airports including Delhi (DEL), Mumbai (BOM), Chennai (MAA), Kolkata (CCU), Bengaluru (BLR), Hyderabad (HYD), and others. Check the full list at indianvisaonline.gov.in.
Is it safe to drink tap water in India?
No. Tap water is not safe to drink in India. Drink only bottled or purified water. Avoid ice in drinks unless you know it comes from purified water.
What vaccinations are recommended for visiting India?
Consult your doctor or travel health clinic well in advance. Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus are typically recommended. Malaria prophylaxis may be needed depending on your itinerary.
Is India affordable for Irish tourists?
Yes. India is a very affordable destination. Accommodation ranges from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels at prices far below Irish equivalents. Street food is excellent and very cheap.
What currency does India use?
India uses the Indian Rupee (INR). It is a restricted currency and cannot be imported or exported in large quantities. Exchange on arrival at the airport.
What vaccinations might be recommended for Irish citizens visiting India?
Common recommendations include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus, and in some regions Malaria prophylaxis. Consult your GP or a travel clinic at least 6-8 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Are there direct flights from Ireland to India?
No. Connections via London (Heathrow), Amsterdam, Frankfurt, or Dubai are standard. Total journey time to Delhi or Mumbai is approximately 10 to 14 hours.