Everything You Need to Know about the Indian eVisa Extension
The Indian eVisa offers a convenient way to visit India. You just have to fill out the Indian visa online form and that is all. So, there are no worries related to waiting in a long line to get it accepted. However, in some cases, individuals may feel the need to extend their stay in India beyond the visa period that they applied for. Even though this looks simple on the outside, it can bring its challenges.
Well, are you considering extending your Indian eVisa? Then you will be required to understand the requirements for Indian eVisa extension. This way you will be able to make the rest of the process easy.
The Indian eVisa system was introduced by the government to simplify things for people coming for tourism and business and to attend conferences. Moreover, it also helps when getting medical treatment. In general, this eVisa comes with a stay period of 60 days. That being said, that can change based on the type of eVisa.
However, there can be times when individuals may need to stay longer than the approved duration. In these situations, you will have to apply for an extension of one's Indian eVisa. But even that process comes with its own set of requirements. So, it is better to understand these to increase your chances of it getting accepted.
Understanding the Indian eVisa Extension
Well, knowing the basics about something is important when it comes to carrying that process out. Although one can easily check the requirements for Indian eVisa extension on the government website, it is still important to understand it properly. This is why, we will focus on breaking down the different parts of this process.
Moreover, it is also important to note that getting an extension is not that easy. These are not randomly generated by some software. Rather, these are controlled by a set of rules, things that determine the verdict of your extension application.
Can One Apply for an eVisa Extension?
Have you ever gone through the process of extending the stay period of a normal visa? Then, you will know that it is a really simple process. You are just required to visit the local Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO). On reaching there, share your extension application with them and then they judge your case. In most cases, people easily get their extension.
However, things are not that easy for an eVisa extension. The process is far more restricted and does not guarantee success. In most cases, eVisa holders are not allowed to extend their visas after reaching India. But, one can get an extension on an e-Medical visa or for some special reasons.
Grounds for eVisa Extension Approval
Extensions are usually granted only in some special cases. And even then decision depends entirely on the Indian authorities. Below are some grounds under which one might be eligible for an eVisa extension:
Delays in medical procedures or appointments can let you have an eVisa extension. But, remember that you will have to confirm your doctor’s end that your treatment is not yet complete. Moreover, you will also have to submit medical documents like hospital records and a recommendation from your doctor.
One can fill out an Indian visa online form for extensions even for humanitarian reasons. This includes. This includes situations like a family emergency. For instance, if a close relative has passed away or is critically ill. In situations like these, you might get an extension but only after providing documentation.
This is undoubtedly one of the rarest cases. In case you find yourself stranded in India due to natural disasters like floods, earthquakes, and others, then you will get an extension. Moreover, this also works for legal issues that stop you from leaving the country. That being said, you should be able to show proper proof that you are unable to leave due to these issues.
eVisa Extension Process
Before you discover the steps and requirements for Indian eVisa extension, it is important to note that this is not granted in most cases. However, if you feel that your situation matches with the above listed then you can reason then you might try for an extension. Although all the steps are pointed out on the national portal, we will still explain it a bit for you.
Step 1: Fill Out the Form
Your first step is to fill out the entire Indian visa online form for an extension. For this, you are required to apply online through the e-FRRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office) service. There is no need to pay a physical visit if you are not told to. It is best if you make the extension application at least 15 days before your eVisa expires.
Step 2: Submit the Required Documents
Documents that you should provide are;
- Your original passport and a copy
- Copy of current eVisa
- Medical proof
- Documents to prove why you need an extension
- Photographs (the size should be as per the guidelines on the official website.)
Step 3: Extension Fee
The fee structure depends on the type of visa. This is why, it varies among people. That being said, the FRRO/FRO will inform you about this.
Step 4: Review and Approval
This is the last step where your application will be reviewed. If your extension request is approved, the stay period will be automatically updated if the request is approved, otherwise, it will not change.
Ready to Fill out the Indian Visa Online form for an Extension?
Getting an extension is tough. But if you desperately need it then it's worth a try. You will just have to submit your application in advance of the expiration date of the eVisa. In case, you have any more queries then please check the e-FRRO official page.