India offers 6 visa and residency pathways for foreign nationals. This page compares all available routes side by side with current requirements.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Visa Programme | Min. Income | Savings | Processing | Difficulty | Family |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Employment Visa (E Visa) | N/A | N/A | 28-56d | 6/10 | Yes |
| Business Visa (B Visa) | N/A | €15,000 | 14-28d | 5/10 | No |
| e-Investment Visa (e-Investor) | N/A | €2,000,000 | 42-84d | 7/10 | Yes |
| Project Visa | N/A | N/A | 21-42d | 6/10 | Yes |
| Entry (X) Visa (Family) | N/A | €5,000 | 14-28d | 4/10 | Yes |
| e-Tourist Visa | €2,500/mo | €5,000 | 3-21d | 5/10 | No |
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Get Deep Dive — €19Frequently Asked Questions
How many visa pathways does India offer?
India offers 6 distinct visa and residency pathways for foreign nationals, including skilled worker, family, investor, and other categories.
What is the easiest visa to get for India?
The easiest pathway depends on your profile. Working holiday visas (if available) have the lowest barriers. For professionals, employer-sponsored visas are the most common route.
How long does it take to get permanent residency in India?
The path to permanent residency in India typically takes 2-5 years depending on the visa category. Some skilled worker pathways offer faster PR routes.
Can I bring my family to India?
Most long-term visa categories in India allow family reunification for spouses and dependent children, though specific requirements vary by pathway.
Do I need a job offer to move to India?
Not all pathways require a job offer. India may offer self-employment, investment, digital nomad, or points-based pathways that don't require employer sponsorship.
Related: India Guide · Cost of Living · All Countries