India Visa from Sri Lanka – Step by Step Guide

The Business India visa from Sri Lanka is specifically designed for individuals who need to make short visits to India for purposes such as attending business meetings, negotiations, training sessions, or participating in exhibitions. It is important to note that staying in India and seeking employment on a business visa is strictly prohibited. This visa category is intended for short-term stays and should not be used for continuous residence in India for business purposes. Business visas are also granted to senior executives of companies, experts, consultants, specialists, tour conductors, and travel agents who frequently visit India for business or professional reasons.

To apply for a business visa, there are several documents and requirements that need to be fulfilled. These include:

• Providing appropriate endorsement of the occupation or profession that justifies the need for a business visa.
• Submitting an invitation letter from a company in India, clearly stating the purpose and duration of the stay in India, as well as a letter from the applicant's employer in Sri Lanka, sponsoring the business visit and providing details about the applicant's position and nature of work in the organization.
• Presenting the Letter of Incorporation, Commercial License, or Certificate of Registration of the Indian company.
• Providing Registration Certificate, Business Registration Certification, or undertakings issued by the Sri Lankan authorities, indicating the applicant's position in the sponsoring company or authority for the visit to India.
• Completing the Visa Application Form accurately and in its entirety.
• Submitting two recent color photographs (2x2 inches) with a white background, depicting the full face without spectacles. The photo on the passport and the Visa Application Form should match the applicant's current appearance.
• When filling out the Visa application form, the applicant must provide accurate details regarding their previous visits to India. This information should be entered in the designated section labeled "Serial Number F." The applicant should mention the visa details of their last visit, including the visa number, which typically starts with an alphabet character, and the date of issue (for example: VLI123456 dated 25 June 2017). If the applicant's last visa was an eTV (electronic visa), they should also provide the e-visa number and the date of first entry, as stamped, or registered on their passport by the Bureau of Immigration, India, at the time of entry into India.
• Submitting previous passports, if applicable, and providing a photocopy of the National Identity Card (NIC), Driving License, or Birth Certificate for Sri Lankan nationals.
• Providing proof of address, which can be in the form of an NIC, Driving License, Bank Statement, Rent Agreement, Telephone Bill, or G.S. Certificate.
• Submitting three months' bank statements from the employer in Sri Lanka who is sponsoring the visit. In exceptional cases, the applicant's own bank statement with a healthy daily balance may be accepted.
• Including an undertaking from the Sri Lankan employer or the Indian host company, stating their willingness to cover the expenses related to the applicant's travel, stay, and other expenditures.
• Foreign nationals applying for a visa in Sri Lanka are required to fill out the FAX Reference Form. Click here to download.
• Providing three months' bank statements of the firm (for non-Sri Lankan nationals).
• Non-Sri Lankan nationals applying for an India Business visa in Sri Lanka must have a work permit or residence permit and have been resident in Sri Lanka for more than two years.

Conference visas are issued to foreign delegates attending international events such as conferences, seminars, workshops, and symposia organized by various government entities, public sector undertakings, educational institutions, and organizations owned or controlled by the Indian government or state government. These events serve as platforms for substantive discussions, deliberations, and the exchange of thoughts and ideas on specific subjects, with participation from foreign countries. In cases where private companies organize the conference, applicants should apply for the shortest duration business visa available.

Applicants are strongly advised to apply well in advance and ensure that the organizers of the event have obtained necessary clearances from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), concerned state governments/union territories (UT), nodal ministries, and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of the Government of India. It is the responsibility of the organizers to obtain these clearances before sending invitation letters to foreign participants. During the visa application process, applicants for conference visas must provide the invitation letters as required.

• Accurately completed Indian visa application form Sri Lanka.
• Ensure that the passport contains the necessary professional endorsement, where applicable.
• Provide two recent color photographs (2x2 inches) without spectacles, showing the full face with both ears visible on a white background. The photo on the passport and visa application form should match the applicant's current appearance.
• Provide the details of the previous visit in the designated section (Serial Number F) of the visa application form:
  • Fill in the correct visa details of the last visit to India.
  • Specify the last visa number used, starting with an alphabet, along with the date of issue (e.g., VLI123456 dated 25 June 2017).
  • If the last visa was an eTV (electronic Visa / e-visa), provide the visa number and the date of first entry into India as stamped or registered on the applicant's passport by the Bureau of Immigration, India.
• Submit previous passports (if applicable) or provide a police complaint report in case of a lost passport.
• Provide a photocopy of the National Identity Card (N.I.C), Driving License, or Birth Certificate (for Sri Lankan nationals only).
• Submit a valid address proof such as the National Identity Card (N.I.C), Driving License, Bank Statement, Rent Agreement, Telephone Bill, or G S Certificate.
• Include an invitation letter from the organizer of the event.
• Obtain clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India.
• Obtain political clearance from the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, as well as clearance from the concerned ministry in India.

An Employment Visa is granted to highly skilled and qualified foreign nationals who are seeking employment in India in senior managerial or executive positions, or for jobs that require advanced or special skills. It is important to note that Employment Visas are not granted for routine jobs where qualified local personnel are readily available. The decision regarding the grant of an Employment Visa is made by the High Commission of India, and the visa can have a validity of up to one year. Applicants for an Employment Visa are required to attend an interview at the High Commission.

The Employment Visa is applicable to the following categories of foreign nationals:

1. Consultants who are contracted by Indian companies and receive fixed remuneration.
2. Foreign artists engaged by clubs or organizations for regular performances during the duration of their employment contract.
3. Coaches of national/state level teams or reputed sports clubs.
4. Foreign sportsmen who have a contract with Indian clubs/organizations for a specific period.
5. Self-employed foreign nationals providing highly skilled services such as engineering, medical, accounting, legal, or other permitted services under Indian law.
6. Foreign language teachers or interpreters.
7. Foreign ethnic chefs.
8. Foreign engineers or technicians coming to India for the installation and commissioning of equipment as per contractual agreements.
9. Foreign nationals providing technical support, know-how transfer, or services for which fees or royalty is paid by the Indian company to the foreign company.
10. Senior management personnel and specialists employed by foreign firms who are relocated to India for specific projects or management assignments.
11. Foreign nationals coming to India for the execution of a project or contract.
12. Foreign nationals visiting India for short periods to repair machinery or equipment as part of warranty or annual maintenance contracts.
13. Foreign nationals conducting training for personnel of Indian companies.
14. Foreign nationals working with non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

• Accurately completed Indian visa application form Sri Lanka
• Two recent color photographs (2×2 inches) taken within the last 3 months. The photos should depict the applicant's full face with both ears visible against a white background. The appearance in the passport and the Visa Application Form (VAF) photo must match.
• The passport must have a minimum validity of 18 months from the date of application and should have at least five blank pages.
• If the previous passport is lost, provide a police compliant report.
• For Sri Lankan nationals, include a photocopy of the National Identity Card (N.I.C), Driving License, or Birth Certificate.
• Include photocopies of the appointment/contract letter and any extensions of the contract, if applicable.
• Provide a Justification Letter from the employer explaining the reason for hiring the employee.
• Include a letter from the Indian employer stating the number of Indian and foreign employees employed by the company.
• Attach photocopies of educational certificates, including Masters/PG/Graduate/Diploma and Certificate courses with a minimum duration of three months. Do not include unnecessary documents such as CV/biodata or certificates for extracurricular activities/sports.
• If applicable, include previous work experience certificates in the related field.
• Provide photocopies of the employer's Certificate of Incorporation and Certificate of Name Change, if applicable.
• If the applicant has previously worked in India, include Form 16 Part B or 26AS-TRACES.
• If the applicant has previously worked in India, include Form 16 Part B or 26AS-TRACES.

1. Spouse and children of an Indian national or foreigner of Indian origin. This visa is granted to the spouse of an Indian national who wishes to reside in India with their Indian spouse. Proof of the Indian spouse's permanent residence in India is required. The following documents must be submitted with the application:
   1. The applicant (Sri Lankan national) must include a copy of their spouse's Indian passport with the applicant's name endorsed.
   2. A copy of the attested marriage certificate from the Secretariat Branch/MEA. The original marriage certificate may be required if necessary.
2. To participate in events organized by ministries under the Government of India, government institutes, universities, PSUs, etc. In such cases, an invitation letter from the Indian government, institutes, universities, or other organizations should be included with the application.
3. To take part in sports tournaments duly approved by the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of India. This includes sports meets organized by government-recognized sports associations, federations, or bodies. In such cases, a letter from the Sports Ministry, federation, or association should be attached to the visa application.
4. For foreigners interested in learning yoga/Vedic culture in recognized institutions in India.
5. Family members of diplomatic households do not qualify for diplomatic visas.

• Complete the India visa from Sri Lanka Application Form accurately.
• Ensure that your profession is endorsed in your passport, if applicable.
• Provide two recent color photographs (taken within the last three months) with a white background, sized 2 x 2 inches. The photo on your passport and application form should match your current appearance.
• Submit previous passports (if applicable). If your previous passport is lost, provide a police complaint report.
• Include a photocopy of your National Identity Card (N.I.C), Driving License, or Birth Certificate.
• Provide proof of address, such as a photocopy of your NIC, Driving License, Bank Statement, Rent Agreement, Telephone Bill, or G S Certificate.
• Submit a bank statement for the last three months showing a healthy average daily balance.
• Include the relevant letter mentioned in point number 1.

An Intern Indian visa application from Sri Lanka is suitable for individuals who plan to pursue an internship in an Indian company, educational institute, or non-governmental organization (NGO).

To obtain an Intern Visa, the following conditions must be met:

1. The foreign national must comply with all legal requirements, including tax payment.
2. The documents related to the proposed internship will be thoroughly reviewed to determine the appropriate visa category for the applicant.
3. The sponsoring employer/organization's name should be clearly specified in the visa sticker.
4. The Indian organization/entity sponsoring the Intern Visa does not necessarily have to be the legal employer of the intern.
5. The intern must provide a letter from the Indian company, educational institution, or NGO sponsoring their internship program, clearly indicating the duration of the internship.
6. An undertaking from the concerned organization in India must confirm that they will ensure the intern's departure upon completion of the internship.
7. The intern must provide a letter from the Indian company, taking responsibility for the intern's activities, conduct during their stay in India, and repatriation if necessary.
8. If the internship is paid, documents regarding the remuneration amount and confirmation of tax payment as per the guidelines implemented by the Government of India must be included.
9. For paid internships in companies, the minimum remuneration is INR 65,000 per month or INR 7.8 lakh per annum. However, there is no minimum salary limit for internships in educational institutes or NGOs.
10. The intern must provide their current graduation/post-graduation certificate.

• Duly completed Visa Application Form.
• Two recent color photographs (2×2 inches) taken within the past three months, depicting the full face with both ears visible on a white background. The photo on the passport and the Visa Application Form must match the applicant's current appearance.
• Details of the previous visit to India in the Visa Application Form (Serial Number F):
  1. a. Correctly fill in the details of the last visit to India.
  2. b. Provide the last used visa number (starting with an alphabet) along with the date of issue. (e.g., VLI123456 dated 25 June 2017).
  3. If the last visa was an eTV (electronic Visa/e-visa), provide the visa number and the date of first entry as stamped/registered on the applicant's passport by the Bureau of Immigration, India at the time of entry into India.
• Previous passports (if the previous passport is lost, provide a police report).
• Photocopy of NIC/Driving License or Birth Certificate (For Sri Lankans only).
• Address Proof (NIC/Driving License/Bank Statement/Rent Agreement/Telephone Bill/GS Certificate).
• Applicants with dual nationality must submit both passports (along with photocopies) at the time of application.
• Financial Statements: Three months of bank statements or a sponsor letter whenever applicable (include a copy of the sponsor's passport/driving license).

All foreign journalists, regardless of the purpose of their visit, are required to apply for a "J" (journalist) India visa from Sri Lanka. The category of "journalists" includes individuals such as editors, journalists, columnists, cartoonists, correspondents, photographers, film producers or directors (excluding commercial films), representatives of radio and/or television organizations, travel writers, travel promotion photographers, and any professional journalist/owner associated with a company engaged in the production or broadcast of audiovisual news or current affairs programs through print, electronic, or any other form of media. Essentially, any professional directly or indirectly involved in the creation, management, or dissemination of content for a media organization is considered a journalist.

For example, even if a journalist intends to visit India for tourism purposes, they still need to apply for a journalist visa. Journalists must apply along with a letter from their organization that clearly describes their position, job nature, and the purpose of their visit, whether it is for journalistic work, attending a seminar/conference, or as tourists.

1. Journalists are required to submit a letter from their organization clearly stating the applicant's job title, the nature of their work, and whether they are traveling for journalistic purposes, to attend a seminar/conference, or as tourists. It is recommended to apply for the visa at least 7 days prior to the intended travel date.
2. Complete the Visa Application Form.
3. Provide two recent color photographs (taken within the last 3 months) measuring 2×2 inches, showing the full face with both ears visible against a white background. The photo on the passport and the Visa Application Form should match the applicant's current appearance.
4. Provide details of previous visits in the designated section (Serial Number F) of the sample Visa application Form:
   1. Fill in the correct visa details of the last visit to India.
   2. Mention the last visa number used, starting with an alphabet, along with the date of issue (e.g., VLI123456 dated 25 June 2017).
   3. If the last visa was an eTV (electronic Visa / e-visa), provide the visa number and the date of the first entry on the e-visa as stamped/registered on the applicant's passport by the Bureau of Immigration, India, at the time of entry into India.
5. Submit previous passports (if applicable). If a previous passport is lost, ensure that there is an endorsement to that effect in the current passport or provide a police compliant report. Also, provide a photocopy of the National Identity Card (NIC) or Driving License or Birth Certificate (for Sri Lankan nationals only).
6. Provide an address proof such as the National Identity Card (NIC), Driving License, Bank Statement, Rent Agreement, Telephone Bill, or Grama Sevaka Certificate.
7. All foreign nationals applying for a visa in Sri Lanka are required to fill out the FAX Reference Form. Download the form from the provided link.
8. Submit three months' bank statements.

Foreign nationals seeking medical treatment in reputed/recognized hospitals in India for various conditions such as neurosurgery, ophthalmic disorders, heart-related problems, renal disorders, organ transplantation, congenital disorders, gene therapy, radiotherapy, joint replacement, etc., are required to obtain a Medical Visa instead of a Tourist Visa. One approved Medical Visa allows for a maximum of two medical attendant visas to be issued for close relatives. Minors are not eligible for a Medical Attendant Visa and must travel on a regular Tourist Visa if their travel becomes necessary. Any misuse of the medical visa will result in punitive action against the applicant.

• Original medical papers confirming the appointment in an Indian hospital.
• Letter from the hospital in Sri Lanka stating the applicant's ailment and the treatment received in Sri Lanka.
• Bank statements for the past 3 months to demonstrate financial capability to undertake travel and medical treatment.
• Fill out the provided proforma on a separate page.

• Fully completed Visa Application Form.
• Two recent color photographs (2×2 inches) taken within the last 3 months, showing the full face with both ears visible against a white background. The photo on the passport and Visa Application Form (VAF) must accurately represent the applicant's current appearance.
• Provide details of previous visits in Section F of the Visa Application Form:
  1. Fill in the correct visa details of the last visit to India.
  2. Mention the last visa number (starting with an alphabet) and its date of issue, indicating the actual travel (e.g., VLI123456 dated 25 June 2017).
  3. If the last visa was an eTV (electronic Visa / e-visa), provide the visa number and the date of the first entry as stamped or registered on the passport by the Bureau of Immigration, India.
• For Sri Lankan nationals, provide a photocopy of the NIC/Driving License/Birth Certificate.
• Submit an address proof document, such as the NIC/Driving License/Bank Statement/Rent Agreement/Telephone Bill/GS Certificate.
• Provide a three-month bank statement demonstrating a healthy average daily balance as proof of solvency.

The 'Missionary Visa' is specifically designed for individuals who wish to travel to India for religious purposes. To obtain this visa, it is necessary to have an invitation from an Indian host organization, institution, or religious body. The host organization should be registered with the central/state government and must provide a registration certificate as proof. Additionally, the Indian host must give an undertaking to cover all the expenses associated with the journey. To ensure a smooth application process, it is advisable to apply for the Missionary Visa at least three months prior to the intended travel date. It's important to note that the validity of the Missionary Visa begins from the date it is issued.

1. Duly completed Visa Application Form.
2. Two recent color photographs (2×2 inches) taken within the last 3 months, showing the full face with both ears visible against a white background. The photo on the passport and the Visa Application Form (VAF) must match the applicant's current appearance.
3. Details of the previous visit to India in the Serial Number F of the Visa application Form:
   1. Fill in the correct visa details of the last visit to India.
   2. Provide the last visa number used, starting with an alphabet, along with the date of issue (e.g., VLI123456 dated 25 June 2017).
   3. If the last visa was an eTV (electronic Visa / e-visa), provide the visa number and the date of the first entry as stamped/registered on the passport by the Bureau of Immigration, India, at the time of entry into India.
4. The passport must have a minimum validity of 6 months from the date of application and should have at least two blank pages. Tampered or damaged passports are not accepted. Include all previous passports (if any) with appropriate endorsements or provide a police compliant report if a previous passport is lost.
5. Photocopy of N.I.C/Driving License/Birth Certificate.
6. Address proof (N.I.C/Driving License/Bank Statement/government utility bills/G.S Certificate).
7. Three months' bank statement showing a healthy average daily balance.
8. Relevant letters mentioned in Serial Number 1.

Foreign nationals who wish to conduct research in India should submit their application at least two weeks prior to their intended visit. The application should be completed using the prescribed format and include a comprehensive bio-data and a synopsis of the research thesis. In certain cases, a Research Visa may require prior clearance from the Government of India. Along with the completed Visa Application Form, applicants must provide an acceptance letter from the Indian institution or university. This letter should clearly state the proposed research period in India, the applicant's educational qualifications, and the arrangements made for their stay, including provisions for boarding and lodging. The duration of the Research Visa will align with the length of the research period.

1. Fill out the Visa Application Form accurately.
2. Make sure that your profession is endorsed in your passport if there is a provision for it.
3. Include an acceptance letter from the Indian Institution, which clearly specifies the details of your proposed research period in India.
4. Provide documentation of your educational qualifications and arrangements for your stay, including meeting expenses for boarding and lodging. These documents should accompany the Application Form.
5. Attach two recent color photographs (2×2 inches) of yourself without spectacles. The photos should depict your full face with both ears visible against a white background. Ensure that the photo on your passport matches your present appearance.
6. Provide details of your previous visits to India in the appropriate section (Serial Number F) of the Visa application form. Fill in the correct visa details of your last visit, including the visa number (starting with an alphabet) and the date of issue. If your last visa was an eTV (electronic Visa / e-visa), mention the visa number and the date of your first entry to India as stamped or registered on your passport by the Bureau of Immigration, India.
7. If you have any previous passports, include them along with your current passport. If your previous passport is lost, make sure to have an endorsement to that effect in your current passport or provide a police complaint report.
8. Sri Lankan nationals should provide a photocopy of their N.I.C, Driving License, or Birth Certificate.
9. Include a proof of address document such as an NIC, Driving License, Bank Statement, Government Utility bills, or G.S Certificate.

To be eligible for a student visa in India as a Sri Lankan national, you need to fulfil certain criteria. First, you must have been accepted into a recognized educational institution in India, which can include universities, colleges, schools, or any other institution approved by the Indian government. To provide evidence of your admission, you must submit proof such as an acceptance letter or admission confirmation from the educational institution, confirming your enrolment in a specific course of study. You must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover your tuition fees and living expenses throughout your stay in India. This can be shown through various means, such as bank statements, scholarship letters, or financial sponsorship letters. These documents serve as proof of your ability to support yourself financially during your studies in India.

1. Complete the Visa Application Form accurately.
2. Ensure that your passport includes an endorsement of your profession if applicable.
3. Include an acceptance letter from the Indian institution or university, clearly stating the details of your proposed research period in India.
4. Provide documentation of your educational qualifications, as well as arrangements for your stay and the expenses related to boarding and lodging. These documents should be submitted along with the Application Form.
5. Attach two recent color photographs (2x2 inches) of yourself, taken within the last three months. The photos should show your full face with both ears visible against a white background. It is essential that the photo on your passport matches your current appearance.
6. In the specified section (Serial Number F) of the Visa Application Form, provide details of your previous visits to India. Fill in the correct visa details of your last visit, including the visa number (starting with an alphabet) and the date of issue. If your last visa was an eTV (electronic Visa / e-visa), include the visa number and the date of your first entry into India as stamped or registered on your passport by the Bureau of Immigration, India.
7. Include any previous passports you may have. If a previous passport is lost, make sure to obtain an endorsement in your current passport or provide a police complaint report.
8. Sri Lankan nationals should provide a photocopy of their N.I.C., Driving License, or Birth Certificate.
9. Submit an address proof document such as an NIC, Driving License, Bank Statement, Government Utility bills, or G.S. Certificate.

A transit visa is issued to individuals who need to travel through India to reach their final destination. If a passenger is in direct transit by air without changing airlines or rechecking luggage, a transit visa is not required. Similarly, if a passenger remains within the designated precincts or waiting area reserved for international transit passengers at an Indian airport and does not cross immigration controls, a transit visa is not necessary. However, a transit visa is required if the passenger needs to move from the international terminal to the domestic terminal of an Indian airport or if they plan to stay in an airport hotel, even for a few hours. It is advisable to consult the concerned airlines for specific requirements.

The transit visa is valid for entry within 15 days from the date of issue and can be a single or double entry, depending on the traveler's needs. Each entry allows a stay of only 3 days, including the day of arrival and departure. For a longer stay in India, an appropriate visa must be obtained.

When applying for a TR (Transit) visa, it is necessary to include the following documents:

1. A confirmed air ticket for the onward journey from India, and
2. An appropriate valid visa if the applicant is traveling to a third country that is different from their nationality.

• complete the Visa Application Form. Along with the form, you should submit two recent color photographs (2×2 inches) without spectacles, showing your full face with both ears visible on a white background. The photo on the application form should match your current appearance as shown on your passport.
• You are required to provide details of your previous visit to India in section F of the application form. This includes filling in the correct visa details of your last visit, mentioning the visa number starting with an alphabet and the date of issue. If your last visa was an eTV (electronic Visa / e-visa), you should include the visa number and the date of your first entry as stamped/registered on your passport by the Bureau of Immigration, India.
• If you have previous passports, please include them in your application. In case your previous passport is lost, provide a police complaint report.
• You should also submit your ticket for the onward journey through India.
• For Sri Lanka nationals, include a photocopy of your NIC/Driving License or Birth Certificate.
• Proof of address should be provided, which can be in the form of an NIC/Driving License/Bank Statement/Rent Agreement/Telephone Bill/GS Certificate.
• If the applicant is a minor, a No Objection letter from the parents along with photocopies of their passports should be included.
• Non-Sri Lankan nationals applying for a visa should enclose a photocopy of their passport with the application form.
• If you have dual nationality, you must present both passports (along with photocopies) at the time of application and fill out the FAX Reference form. Click here to download.