Visitor and tourist visas
A visitor visa is for tourism, visiting family or short business trips. Officers mainly check three things: why you are travelling, whether you can pay for the trip, and whether your ties to India show you will return. A clear, honest file with genuine documents matters more than a thick one.
Choose an option
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Canada visitor visa
Tourist and family-visit visas for Canada.
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USA B1/B2 visa
Tourist and business visitor visa with a consular interview.
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UK Standard Visitor visa
Tourism, family visits and permitted business activities in the UK.
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Schengen visa
One visa for short trips across the Schengen area.
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Australia visitor visa (600)
Tourist and family-visit visa for Australia.
How do visitor visas compare?
| Destination | Visa | How you apply | Interview? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | Visitor visa (TRV) | Online, then biometrics at a visa centre | Rarely |
| USA | B1/B2 | DS-160, fee, biometrics | Yes, at a US consulate |
| UK | Standard Visitor | Online, then biometrics at a visa centre | Rarely |
| Schengen | Short-stay (type C) | Consulate or its visa centre | Sometimes |
| Australia | Visitor (subclass 600) | Online through ImmiAccount | Rarely |
Documents most visitor applications need
- Valid passport and any old passports with previous travel.
- Bank statements, income tax returns and proof of income.
- Proof of ties: job letter and leave approval, business registration, property, family.
- Trip plan, and an invitation letter if you are visiting family.
Frequently asked questions
What do visa officers look for in a visitor application?
Mainly the purpose of your trip, your ability to pay for it, and ties that show you will return, such as family, property, work or business in India.
Can I apply again after a visitor visa refusal?
Yes, usually. First understand why you were refused. Reapplying with the same documents often leads to the same result. See Visa refusal help.