India Visa RequirementsFor Israel passport holders
Israeli citizens can apply for an Indian eVisa online, allowing stays of up to 90 days for tourism. India is a major destination for Israeli backpackers, yoga travelers, and those exploring Buddhist and Hindu heritage.
Israel passport holders must apply for an electronic visa (eVisa) online before traveling to India.
Israeli passport holders must apply for an Indian eVisa online at the official Indian government portal before travel. The tourist e-Visa (e-Tourist Visa) fee is approximately USD 25 for most nationalities and is issued within 72 hours of application. The eVisa is typically valid for 90 days from the date of arrival with double entry. Apply at least 4 days before departure to allow processing time. The eVisa cannot be extended in-country; a new application or a traditional visa is required for longer stays.
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
Indian e-Tourist Visa (eTV)
Apply online at indianvisaonline.gov.in before departure. The eVisa is approved electronically and linked to your passport number. Print or save the approval email; some officers request to see it.
Valid Israeli Passport
Must be the same passport used for the eVisa application. Minimum 6 months validity required beyond the date of arrival in India. At least two blank pages required.
Passport Photo
Recent digital passport-size photograph (white background) uploaded during the eVisa application. Must meet Indian government photo specifications.
Valid Email Address
A valid email address to receive the eVisa approval letter. Keep this email accessible as it contains the eVisa reference number needed at arrival.
Credit or Debit Card for Payment
International credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard, or American Express) required to pay the eVisa application fee of approximately USD 25 online.
Required at Entry
Return or Onward Flight Ticket
Proof of return travel from India or confirmed onward itinerary out of India within the eVisa validity period.
eVisa Approval Printout
Print or save the eVisa approval letter received by email. Present to Indian immigration along with your passport at arrival.
Proof of Accommodation Recommended
Hotel booking or host invitation letter in India, particularly for the first night. Immigration officers may request evidence of accommodation.
Current Travel Situation
Israel to India: What You Need to Know
India and Israel established diplomatic relations in 1992, and since then bilateral ties have grown substantially, particularly in defense, agriculture, water technology, and trade. India is one of the top global destinations for Israeli backpackers and independent travelers. The trails through Rajasthan, Goa, Kerala, and the Himalayan regions of Himachal Pradesh and Rishikesh attract thousands of Israelis annually. India's incredible diversity of landscapes, cuisine, spirituality, and history make it a uniquely immersive travel experience.
Money & Banking
India uses the Indian rupee (INR). Cash is important for markets, local transport, and smaller towns. ATMs in major cities accept foreign Visa and Mastercard. UPI (Unified Payments Interface) is widely used locally but foreign cards cannot directly access it. India is very affordable for Israeli travelers; accommodation and food are a fraction of European costs.
Practical Tips
Apply for the Indian eVisa at india.gov.in/evisa or the official Indian government portal. Multiple entry is allowed (double entry for tourist eVisa). Check validity carefully: the eVisa is valid for 90 days from the first entry, not from the issue date. Israel has an Indian Jewish community (Bnei Israel) with heritage sites in Mumbai (Bombay). Israeli travelers often base in Delhi or Mumbai as gateways before exploring Rajasthan, Goa, or Kerala.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Israeli passport holders apply for an Indian visa?
Israeli passport holders apply for an Indian e-Tourist Visa (eTV) online at the official Indian government portal (indianvisaonline.gov.in). The application process is fully online; no embassy visit is required. The fee is approximately USD 25 for most categories.
How long does the Indian eVisa take to process?
The e-Tourist Visa is typically processed within 72 to 96 hours of application. Apply at least 4-7 days before travel to allow buffer time. The eVisa cannot be applied for more than 120 days before the expected date of arrival.
How long can Israeli tourists stay in India with an eVisa?
The e-Tourist Visa (double entry) is valid for 90 days from the date of first arrival. A 1-year and 5-year multiple entry e-Tourist Visa is also available for higher fees. The eVisa cannot be extended within India; a new application or a traditional visa from the embassy is required for longer stays.
What ports of entry can Israeli tourists use with an Indian eVisa?
The Indian eVisa is valid at designated airports and seaports, including Delhi (DEL), Mumbai (BOM), Chennai (MAA), Kolkata (CCU), Bengaluru (BLR), and other major international airports. The eVisa is not valid for land border crossings.
Why is India so popular with Israeli backpackers?
India has been a cornerstone of the Israeli backpacker trail since the 1970s. Following military service, many young Israelis embark on extended trips to India as a form of exploration and decompression. The Himachal Pradesh region (Manali, Kasol, Mcleod Ganj), Rajasthan, Goa, and Kerala are particularly associated with Israeli travelers. Kasol in Himachal Pradesh is sometimes called "Little Israel" for its concentration of Israeli restaurants and Hebrew signage.
Is India affordable for Israeli travelers?
Yes. India is among the world's most affordable major destinations. Accommodation, food, and transport are extremely inexpensive by Israeli standards, particularly in the backpacker-oriented guesthouses and local restaurants. Luxury hotels and international restaurants in Mumbai and Delhi cost more but are still competitive internationally.
Is kosher food available in India?
Yes, in specific locations. Chabad houses in major Indian cities (Mumbai, Delhi, Manali, Goa) and tourist destinations serve kosher meals. Mumbai has the Bnei Israel Jewish community with a functioning synagogue and some kosher catering. Kasol and other Israeli backpacker hubs have Israeli-oriented restaurants.
What health precautions should Israeli tourists take in India?
Travel insurance with evacuation coverage is strongly recommended. Recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, and depending on region, Yellow Fever (if arriving from Africa) and Japanese Encephalitis. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for certain areas; consult a travel medicine specialist before departure. Drink bottled water only. Food hygiene precautions are important.