India Visa RequirementsFor Vatican City passport holders
Vatican City passport holders can apply for an Indian e-Visa online at indianvisaonline.gov.in. The e-Visa costs approximately USD 25 and allows up to 90 days with double entry. Processing takes 72 hours minimum.
Vatican City passport holders must apply for an electronic visa (eVisa) online before traveling to India.
Apply online at indianvisaonline.gov.in at least 4 business days before travel. Upload a Vatican passport scan and photo. The e-Visa is emailed and linked to the passport. Print and present at immigration.
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
Valid Passport
A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity beyond your planned departure from India.
Vatican (Holy See) Passport
Valid Vatican City State passport with at least 6 months validity beyond intended stay. Required for eVisa application and entry.
eVisa Online Application
Completed online eVisa application at indianvisaonline.gov.in. Select appropriate eVisa type (eTourist or eBusiness) and enter Vatican passport details.
Digital Passport Photo
A recent passport-size photograph meeting the specifications of the India immigration authority. Typically a JPEG file with a plain white background.
Digital Passport Photo
Recent passport-size photograph (5cm x 5cm, white background, JPEG format) uploaded during the eVisa online application.
eVisa Application Fee Payment
USD 25 visa application fee paid by credit or debit card during the online eVisa application.
Proof of Official Status Recommended
Letter from the Vatican Secretariat of State confirming your official capacity if traveling for an official Vatican mission.
Required at Entry
Approved ETA or eVisa
The approved electronic authorization linked to your passport. The ETA or eVisa is electronically linked to your passport but carry a printed copy as backup.
Return or Onward Ticket
Proof of return or onward travel from India.
Proof of Accommodation
Hotel bookings or accommodation details for your entire stay in India.
eVisa Approval Letter
Printed eVisa approval letter received by email. Must be presented at the airline check-in counter and to immigration on arrival at an eVisa-designated airport.
Travel Insurance Recommended
Travel insurance for your stay in India. Check the specific requirements as some countries mandate insurance with minimum coverage amounts.
Current Travel Situation
Vatican City to India: What You Need to Know
India and Vatican City maintain diplomatic relations. India has a significant Catholic population particularly in Goa and Kerala. Vatican passport holders benefit from the e-Visa system, making India accessible without a consulate visit.
How to Get There
Sri Lanka and Nepal have significant Christian communities and may be accessible with simplified visa arrangements.
Money & Banking
India uses the Indian Rupee (INR). ATMs in cities. Cards in urban areas. Cash in rural areas.
Practical Tips
India has several important Catholic heritage sites including the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Goa which holds the relics of St. Francis Xavier. Vatican officials may visit for religious purposes. Yellow fever certificate required if arriving from endemic countries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Vatican City passport holders need a visa to visit India?
Yes. Vatican City passport holders must obtain a visa before visiting India. They are eligible for the e-Visa (eVisa) which can be applied for online. The application fee is approximately 25 USD. The eVisa must be obtained before travel; visas are not available on arrival for Vatican passport holders.
How long can Vatican passport holders stay in India on an eVisa?
The India e-Tourist Visa typically permits a stay of up to 90 days per entry. Double-entry and multiple-entry variants are available for different purposes. The total authorized stay is determined by the visa type granted.
How do Vatican passport holders apply for an Indian eVisa?
Applications are submitted through the official Indian government eVisa portal (indianvisaonline.gov.in). Applicants complete the online form, upload a passport photo and passport scan, and pay the fee. Approval is typically received within 72 hours via email. The eVisa must be printed and presented on arrival.
What documents do Vatican passport holders need to travel to India?
A valid Vatican City passport with at least six months validity, the printed eVisa approval, a return or onward air ticket, proof of accommodation, and sufficient funds for the stay. Travelers must also enter India through one of the designated eVisa-enabled airports.
What currency does India use and how can Vatican visitors manage money?
India uses the Indian Rupee (INR). ATMs are widely available in cities and larger towns. Credit cards are accepted at hotels and established restaurants, but cash is essential for local transport, markets, and smaller businesses. Currency exchange is available at banks and authorized outlets.
What should Vatican passport holders know about traveling to India?
India is a vast and diverse country with an enormous range of religious, cultural, and historical sites of major significance to Christianity, including ancient churches in Goa, Kerala, and Chennai. The climate varies enormously by region and season. Travel health precautions, including vaccinations and food safety awareness, are important. Bureaucratic processes can be time-consuming.
How does India view the Holy See and Vatican City passport holders?
India and the Holy See maintain full diplomatic relations. India has a significant Catholic Christian minority, particularly in the south and northeast. The Vatican passport is recognized by Indian immigration. Vatican officials making official visits should coordinate with the Apostolic Nunciature in New Delhi.