Why India’s Low-Season e-Visa is the Best Choice for 2026

The Indian government has implemented a seasonal pricing strategy for its 30-day tourist e-Visa to stimulate international tourism during the lean season. From April 1 through June 30, the cost for this electronic visa is reduced to $10, compared to the standard rate of $25 applicable from July 1 through March 31.

While this seasonal price variation has been in place since 2019, the practical utility of the discount has increased in 2026 due to a significant expansion of the application window. As of December 18, 2025, the official portal allows travelers to select an arrival date up to 120 days in advance.

Expanded Application Windows and Pricing Mechanics

Prior to the end of 2025, the 30-day tourist e-Visa could only be requested within 30 days of the traveler’s intended arrival. This restriction limited the number of travelers who could leverage the off-season rate for trips occurring later in the year.

Under the new rules, an application submitted on June 30 can now be used for travel dates as late as October 28. This extension allows budget-conscious travelers to lock in the $10 rate for autumn trips, providing greater flexibility for those booking tours or beach stays well in advance.

The fee is determined by the expected date of arrival rather than the date the application is submitted. For example, a traveler who applies on March 28 for an arrival on April 1 will be charged the $10 lean-season rate. Conversely, an application submitted in April for a March arrival would still incur the $25 high-season fee.

Fee Structure and Requirements

The 30-day e-Tourist Visa is a double-entry option. For travelers requiring longer stays, the Indian government maintains fixed rates that are not subject to seasonal discounts:

• 1-Year e-Tourist Visa: $40 USD
• 5-Year e-Tourist Visa: $80 USD

In addition to the base visa fees, all payments are subject to an additional 2.5% bank transaction fee. To ensure processing, applicants must submit their visa forms and payment at least four days before their planned entry into the country.

Strategic Context of the Lean Season Discount

The reduction in entry costs during the April to June window is designed to make India more attractive during months when international tourism demand is typically weaker. By lowering the financial barrier to entry, the government aims to stabilize tourism flows throughout the calendar year.

The modernization of the e-Visa system, which includes simplified online application forms and fast approval timelines, complements these pricing adjustments to streamline arrival procedures for international visitors.