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You require a valid passport from your country and a visa from an Indian mission abroad to enter India. For more details visit: (link http://india.gov.in/overseas/indian_missions.php) The exceptions are:

• Citizens of Bhutan and Nepal, who do not require visas.
• Nationals of Maldives who do not require a visa for visits of up to 90 days
• Persons of Indian Origin and Non-Resident Indians who possess either an OCI or a PIO card, which are the equivalent of a long India visa

India issues the following types of visas [Source / link to
http://india.gov.in/overseas/passport.php]

• Tourist Visa: Up to 6 months. Apply with: documents supporting your financial standing
• Tourist Visa on Arrival : the Indian Government has announced tourist visa on arrival for citizens of five countries, Finland, Japan, New Zealand, Luxembourg and Singapore, in an effort to promote tourism w.e.f. January 01, 2010 for an year. With a maximum validity of 30 days with single entry facility, the visa on arrival shall be granted by the Immigration Officers at Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata airports. A fee of US $60 or an equivalent amount in Indian rupees per passenger, including children, will be charged from each foreigner for the grant of tourist visa on arrival.
  For more information visit www.immigrationindia.nic.in
• Business Visa: One or more years. Apply with letter from the sponsoring organisation
• Student Visa: For the duration of the academic course of study or for a period of five years whichever is less. Apply with: proof of admission to recognised Universities / Institutions in India
• Transit Visa: Maximum period of 15 Days. Apply with: Evidence of onward travel to a destination outside India
• Conference Visa: For the duration of the conference or seminar. Apply with: letter of invitation from the organiser of the conference

When you apply for a visa at an Indian Embassy or High Commission you must include the following:

• Your passport valid for at least 6 months
• Visa fee in cash or by postal order (cheques are normally not accepted)
• Two passport-size photographs
• Supporting documents, where necessary
• Duly completed application form
• Note: Allow one month's processing time for postal applications.
• Some parts of India are "restricted areas" and require special permits.