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Business Visa for India

Business Visa for India: a detailed guide

Arabiers understand the importance of providing accurate and up-to-date information about travel requirements and visa regulations. Our India Visa from Sri Lanka service makes the application procedure a smooth and hassle-free experience because of our expertise and round-the-clock-assistance from our visa consultants. It is crucial to note that a business visa is not intended for continuous stay or seeking employment in India. Instead, it serves as a means for senior executives, experts, consultants, specialists, tour conductors, and travel agents to engage in business activities during their short-term visits. In this article, we will explore the intricacies of obtaining a business visa for short visits to India, with a focus on attending business meetings, negotiations, training, and participating in exhibitions.


Purpose of an India Business Visa


A business visa is granted to foreign nationals who wish to visit India for various professional purposes. These include:

  • Establishing an industrial/business venture or exploring possibilities for setting up such ventures.
  • Purchasing or selling industrial products in India.
  • Conducting business tours as tour conductors or travel agents.
  • Participating in technical meetings, discussions, board meetings, or general meetings that involve providing business services support.
  • Taking part in exhibitions, trade fairs, and similar events.
  • Engaging in specialized training within the regional hubs of multinational or corporate companies based in India.

Document Checklist for India Business Visa


Sri Lankan Nationals:

To obtain a business visa, certain documents and endorsements are required. Here is a checklist of the necessary documents:

  • Endorsement of occupation/profession justifying the application for a business visa.
  • Invitation letter from an Indian company, specifying the exact purpose and duration of the visit, and a letter from the applicant's employer in Sri Lanka, sponsoring the business visit to India and stating the applicant's position and nature of work.
  • Proof of registration of the Indian company, such as the letter of incorporation, commercial license, or certificate of registration.
  • Duly completed Visa Application Form.
  • Two recent, color photographs (2×2 inches) without spectacles, depicting the applicant's full face with both ears visible against a white background. The photo should match the applicant's present appearance and their passport photo.
  • Details of the applicant's previous visit to India, including the visa number and date of issue.
  • Photocopy of the applicant's N.I.C/Driving License/Birth Certificate (for Sri Lankan nationals).
  • Address proof, such as N.I.C/Driving License/Bank Statement/Rent Agreement/Telephone Bill/G.S. Certificate.
  • Provide the accurate visa details for your previous visit to India in the designated section marked "Serial Number F" on the sample Visa application Form.
    • Include the visa number, starting with an alphabet (e.g., VLI123456), and the date of issue (e.g., 25 June 2017) for the last visa you obtained and traveled on.
    • Include the visa number, starting with an alphabet (e.g., VLI123456), and the date of issue (e.g., 25 June 2017) for the last visa you obtained and traveled on.
  • Three months' bank statements from the Sri Lankan employer sponsoring the applicant's visit, or in exceptional cases, the applicant's own bank statement with a healthy daily balance.
  • An undertaking from the Sri Lankan employer or the Indian host company, assuming responsibility for the applicant's travel, stay, and other expenses.
  • Three months' bank statements of the applicant's firm.

Non-Sri Lankan Nationals:

  • All the documents mentioned above.
  • Foreign workers applying for a business visa in Sri Lanka must possess a work permit/residence permit and have resided in Sri Lanka for more than two years. They must submit proof of it during application.

How to apply for an India Business Visa


The application procedure for an India Business Visit visa with Arabiers is:

  • Prepare the required documents according to the checklist specified above.
  • Submit the necessary documents to your visa consultant at Arabiers.
  • After submitting the necessary documents, await confirmation of document acceptance from your Arabiers visa consultant.
  • Indicate your preferred entry airport in India and specify your desired travel dates.
  • Complete the payment for your Indian business visa using a secure payment gateway.
  • Proceed with your visa application for your travel to India.
  • Once your visa has been confirmed, the Arabiers team will contact you.
  • Get ready to embark on your journey to India and enjoy your travel experience.

Obtaining a business visa for India is crucial for foreign nationals engaging in short-term business activities, such as attending meetings, negotiations, training sessions, or exhibitions. Arabiers advise our clients to adhere to the specific requirements and guidelines outlined by the High Commission of India. By providing the necessary documents and endorsements, applicants can ensure a smooth and successful visa application process. Remember, the business visa is not intended for individuals running petty businesses or engaging in petty trade. For any additional information or specific inquiries, we recommend consulting with the High Commission of India or contacting our experienced travel consultants via WhatsApp or phone call.