Indian visa for minors: requirements and online form

When planning to travel to India with a minor child, it’s essential to obtain a separate visa for the child, ensure that the application matches the child's passport details, and gather required documents like a birth certificate and parental consent if only one parent is traveling, all of which make for a smooth entry into India for family travels.

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Many families love to travel together, and this includes taking their kids on trips overseas. However, traveling with minors can complicate the process because different countries have different visa requirements.

For travelers planning to take their children to India, here's what they need to know to take young people into the country.

How to get an India visa for a minor child

Every minor child who plans to enter India will need their own visa. Fortunately, parents or guardians can apply for the visa online. This form is straightforward, and most travelers find it easy to fill out. Each section includes instructions.

The most important thing to remember is that the information on the application must match the information on the child's passport.

Before starting the application process

Before filling out the Indian e-Visa form, travelers may want to gather:

• The child's passport. Make sure it has at least six months of validity beyond the planned arrival date in the country. The passport should also have at least two blank pages for stamping by an Indian immigration officer.
• A photograph of the child on a white background. Parents or guardians must make sure that their child's photograph meets India's specifications.
• A credit card. It will be used to pay the applicable e-visa/visa fee.
• A valid email address, preferably of the parent or guardian.
• Details about the child's arrival in and departure from India. This includes flight numbers, cities of arrival and departure, travel dates, and more.

Travelers should be able to apply for and submit their e-visa application online.

Documents required for the Indian regular visa for a minor

The following documents are required to apply for an Indian visa (regular visa):

• Passport of the minor
• Image of self of the minor
• Certificate of birth (complete version) or a notarized copy
• Parent's marriage certificate
• Self-attested copies of the passports of both parents
• Consent form signed by parents or authorized guardian (if the child is below 16)

Parents and guardians can also check the status of the regular visa application online at any time. However, once the regular visa for minors has been processed, they will receive an email notification. Once they have this, they can print off the visa for a minor child and are advised to carry it when they take the child to India.

Another options is the eVisa.

Is the India e-visa application different for a minor?

No, the application procedure is the same for an adult or a minor applicant. The only difference is that their parents or legal guardians should sign the application form for an Indian visa for a minor child.

All applicants need to submit separate applications and photographs. Please note that the photographs should not be family pictures but passport-size images with a white background.

Facts about the India visa for a minor child

The visa to India for a minor child works the same way that an adult visa does. However, if:

• one parent is traveling with a child without the other or
• if travelers are taking someone else's child across the border

In the above cases, it is best to check with the Indian embassy if a notarized letter from the other parent is needed. If the minor child is traveling with someone else, a consent letter from both parents permitting the person accompanying them will be required for visa processing.

Applicants are advised to contact the nearest Indian Consulate or Embassy if additional documents are required for regular visa processing or upon arrival in India. Please note that no additional documents except the details of the parents are required for the India e-tourist visa. However, requirements for the e-Visa may change, so it is best to check the official website for any updates regarding documentation for minors.

Important note: Parents can also provide documentation of a child's medical needs, such as allergies, medications, or other special needs. It can expedite any medical care the child may need in the country.

Children of OCI cardholders

Children of PIOs (Persons of Indian origin) born abroad can become OCI (Overseas Citizenship of India) cardholders if one of their parents is also eligible.

Remember, OCI cardholders are entitled to a multipurpose, multiple-entry, lifelong visa for visiting India.

Does the guardian have to submit the application with the minor

Each foreign traveler needs a visa to enter India, irrespective of their age. Children under 16 need their own visas, and their parents/guardians can apply. It is not necessary that the parents/guardians apply along with the minors' visa application.

However, the application for an Indian visa for a minor (regular visa processed online through an authorized visa center or Indian embassy)should be signed by a parent or guardian to be accepted. Applications without such signatures will be rejected and returned. Please note that children under 16 years from a foreign country cannot travel to India without being accompanied by an adult.

Note: India allows minor children to travel unaccompanied only domestically. So, it is advised that parents/guardians apply for the visa along with the child if they are not already in possession of an Indian visa.

Conclusion

Traveling with minor children can be complicated when it comes to visa requirements, but obtaining an India visa for a minor is a straightforward process that can be done online. It is crucial to ensure that all the information provided in the application matches the child's passport.

Additionally, carry necessary documents like a birth certificate and a notarized letter from the other parent, if applicable. Parents or guardians can easily get an India visa for their child and travel together, creating lasting memories as a family.