India, a land of ancient marvels, diverse cultures, and burgeoning economic opportunities, continues to attract travelers from every corner of the globe. From the Andean peaks of Peru to the vast plains of Tanzania, individuals planning a journey to India—be it for cultural immersion, spiritual exploration, business ventures, or medical tourism—must first understand the specific requirements for obtaining an Indian visa. BothPeru citizens andTanzanian citizens benefit significantly from India's efficient e-Visa system, greatly simplifying the application process, while traditional visa routes remain available for specific needs.

The Government of India has significantly modernized its visa application infrastructure with the introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, popularly known as the e-Visa. This digital initiative has made the visa acquisition process more convenient and efficient for a vast majority of international travelers, facilitating smoother entry and promoting global engagement.1

The South American Link: Indian Visa for Peru Citizens

For Peru citizens, obtaining an Indian visa is primarily streamlined through the e-Visa system.2 As there is an Embassy of India in Lima, traditional visa applications are also an option, but the e-Visa often provides a faster and more convenient alternative for many short-term travel purposes.3

e-Visa Options for Peru Citizens:

Peruvian passport holders are eligible for several categories of Indian e-Visas:4

e-Tourist Visa: Ideal for recreation, sightseeing, casual visits to meet friends or relatives, or participating in short-term yoga programs or other cultural courses.5 Peru citizens can apply for e-Tourist Visas with various validity options:

30-day (double entry): Valid for 30 days from the date of arrival in India.

1-year (multiple entry): Valid for one year from the date of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) approval, allowing continuous stays of up to 90 days per visit.

5-year (multiple entry): Valid for five years from the ETA approval date, also allowing continuous stays of up to 90 days per visit. The total permissible duration of stay on this visa type in a calendar year shall not exceed 180 days.

e-Business Visa: For Peru citizens looking to engage in business activities, such as attending meetings, conferences, exploring investment opportunities, or conducting sales/purchases.6 This visa typically offers multiple entries and a validity of one year, allowing cumulative stays of up to 180 days.

e-Medical Visa: Individuals seeking medical treatment in India's advanced healthcare facilities can apply for an e-Medical Visa.7 This usually allows for triple entry and a stay of up to 60 days, with the possibility of extension in India based on treatment needs. An e-Medical Attendant Visa is also available for accompanying family members.

e-Conference Visa: For attending conferences, seminars, or workshops organized by Indian government ministries or departments, provided the necessary government clearances are in place.8

Application Process for Peru Citizens (e-Visa):

The e-Visa application for Peru citizens is entirely online:

Online Application Form: Visit the official Indian e-Visa website (indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html) and accurately complete the detailed application form. Ensure all personal details, passport information, and travel plans precisely match your passport.

Document Upload: Upload scanned copies of required documents:

Passport: A clear scanned copy of the passport's biographical page, showing your photograph and personal details.9 The passport must have at least six months of validity remaining from the intended date of arrival in India and at least two blank pages.

Photograph: A recent, clear, passport-style color photograph with a white background, meeting the specified dimensions (5cm x 5cm) and format (JPEG).

Additional Documents: Depending on the visa type (e.g., invitation letter for business, hospital letter for medical visa, confirmed return/onward ticket).

Fee Payment: Pay the non-refundable visa fee online using a credit/de*** card.10 Fees vary based on visa type and validity.

Receive ETA: Upon approval, an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) will be sent to your registered email address, typically within 72 hours.11 It is crucial to print a copy of this ETA and carry it with you when traveling to India.

Entry Points: e-Visas are valid for entry through designated international airports (currently 29) and seaports (currently 5). Entry via land borders is generally not permitted with an e-Visa.12

Important Notes for Peru Citizens:

It is advisable to apply for the e-Visa at least 4-7 days before your intended travel date.

The e-Visa is generally not extendable or convertible in India for tourist purposes.13

Yellow Fever Vaccination: If arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever risk country, a Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate is mandatory. While Peru itself is considered a yellow fever risk country by India, specific areas within Peru might dictate the requirement. It is crucial to check the latest health advisories from the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, or consult the Embassy of India in Lima. The vaccination certificate's validity begins 10 days after vaccination.14

Peru citizens are NOT eligible for a Visa on Arrival. A pre-approved visa (e-Visa or regular visa) is mandatory before traveling to India.15

For specific long-term visas or other categories not covered by the e-Visa, Peru citizens can apply for traditional paper visas through the Embassy of India in Lima. This involves filling out an online form and then submitting a printed copy with supporting documents and providing biometrics at the Embassy.

The East African Journey: Indian Visa for Tanzanian Citizens

For Tanzanian citizens, India offers both the convenient e-Visa option and traditional regular visas. The e-Visa facility has greatly simplified the process for various purposes, especially short-term visits. The High Commission of India in Dar es Salaam and the Consulate General in Zanzibar also continue to process regular visas for those who require them or prefer this method.16

e-Visa Options for Tanzanian Citizens:

Tanzanian citizens are eligible for the same comprehensive range of Indian e-Visa categories as many other nationalities: e-Tourist, e-Business, e-Medical, e-Medical Attendant, e-Conference, e-Ayush, and e-Ayush Attendant visas, with similar validity periods and stay durations (e.g., up to 90 days continuous stay for e-Tourist visas, 180 days for e-Business visas).

Application Process for Tanzanian Citizens (e-Visa):

The e-Visa process for Tanzanian citizens mirrors that for Peru citizens, involving online application, document upload, and fee payment via the official e-Visa portal.17

Regular Visa Application for Tanzanian Citizens (High Commission of India, Dar es Salaam):

For purposes not covered by the e-Visa (e.g., long-term study, employment, or if preferred), Tanzanian citizens can apply for regular visas through the High Commission of India in Dar es Salaam or the Consulate General of India in Zanzibar. This typically involves:

Online Application (Initial): Filling out an online application form on the Indian Visa Online portal (indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/).18

Submission of Hard Copy & Biometrics: Printing the completed online form, signing it, and submitting it along with physical copies of required documents and providing fingerprints/photographs (biometrics) at the High Commission/Consulate or their authorized outsourced service provider.

Required Documents (Typical):

Passport: Original passport valid for a minimum of six months.19

Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photographs (as per specifications).

Copy of Tanzanian ID card/Residence Permit (for non-Tanzanian residents).

Supporting Documents: Depending on visa type (e.g., confirmed air tickets, hotel bookings, letter from employer, invitation letter from Indian company/hospital/educational institution, financial proof).

Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate: This is a crucial and mandatory requirement for all travelers (except infants under six months) originating from or transiting through Tanzania. Vaccination must have been taken at least 10 days before the date of travel.

Fee Payment: Visa fees are paid as per the High Commission's guidelines, typically in Tanzanian Shillings or USD.

Processing Time: Regular visa processing can vary but is generally efficient at the missions, typically taking a few working days.

Important Notes for Tanzanian Citizens:

The e-Visa offers a quicker turnaround time (often within 72 hours) compared to traditional visas, which might take longer.

Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate: This is a crucial and mandatory requirement for all travelers (except infants under six months) originating from or transiting through Tanzania. Ensure it is obtained at least 10 days before travel.

Tanzanian citizens are NOT eligible for Visa on Arrival. A pre-approved visa (e-Visa or regular visa) is mandatory before traveling to India.20

For long-term visas (exceeding 180 days), registration with the nearest Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) within 14 days of arrival is mandatory.

Biometric details will be mandatorily captured at Immigration on arrival in India for e-Visa holders.21

General Advice for All Travelers to India:

Passport Validity: Always ensure your passport is valid for a minimum of six months from your expected date of arrival in India. It should also have at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.

Accuracy of Information: Double-check all information entered into your visa application form. Any discrepancies between your application and passport details can lead to delays or rejection.22

Proof of Funds: Be prepared to provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in India if requested by immigration officials upon arrival.

Return/Onward Ticket: A confirmed return or onward journey ticket is often a standard requirement for tourist visas.23

Respect Local Laws & Customs: India is a land of incredible diversity, and adherence to local laws and respect for cultural and religious sensitivities is paramount. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, and and be mindful of local customs.

No Employment on Tourist Visa: An e-Tourist visa or regular tourist visa does not permit employment, formal education, or long-term residence in India.

By diligently following the guidelines for an Indian visa for Peru citizens and an Indian visa for Tanzanian citizens, travelers can look forward to a rewarding and hassle-free experience in incredible India.