India Visa for Norwegian Citizens

India, a land of ancient heritage, vibrant cultures, and breathtaking landscapes, welcomes Norwegian travelers with open arms.

You can visit this country with an evisa without visiting the Embassy. Here are the essential details of obtaining an India evisa for Norwegian citizens!

Types of India eVisas for Norwegian Tourists

There are three distinct types of India eVisas depending on validity and duration for Norwegian citizens:

India eVisa Fees for Norwegian Citizens

Here’s a breakdown of the India eVisa Fees for Norwegian Citizens:

Please note that an additional 3.5% on PayPal or 2.5% Payment Gateway charge will be applicable on Indian eVisa fees for Norwegian citizens.

India eVisa Eligibility Criteria for Norwegian Citizens

To qualify for an Indian eVisa, Norwegian citizens must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Passport Validity: Your passport should have at least six months of validity from arriving in India.

• Travel Purpose: The purpose of your visit should be tourism, business, medical treatment, or attending conferences/seminars.

• Return/Onward Journey: You must have a return ticket or onward journey ticket and sufficient funds to cover your stay in India.

• Restrictions: You should not have a residence or occupation in India.

Documents Needed for India eVisa for Norwegian Citizens

When applying for an India tourist eVisa as a Norwegian citizen, you’ll need to provide the following documents:

1. Passport: A valid Norwegian passport with at least six months of remaining validity from arriving in India.

2. Passport Photo: A recent digital photograph with a white background, meeting the specified dimensions and format requirements.

3. Travel Itinerary: Details of your travel plans, including flight tickets and accommodation bookings.

4. Financial Proof: Bank statements or other documents demonstrating sufficient funds to cover your stay in India.

5. Additional Documents: Depending on your specific circumstances, you may need to provide additional documents, such as proof of medical insurance or a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer.

How To Apply For India eVisa for Norwegian Citizens?

Applying for an India eVisa is a straightforward process for Norwegian citizens. Follow these step-by-step instructions:

Step 1: Visit the official India eVisa website and click on the “Apply Now” button.

Step 2:Register by entering your basic details, such as Passport Type, Port of Arrival, Date of Birth, Expected Date of Arrival, and other required information.

Step 3: Provide your personal and passport details. Once done, save and continue.

Step 4: On the third page, enter your address, family details of your father and mother, and your marital status.

Step 5: Fill in the details about the visa you are applying for, places you plan to visit, any previous or currently valid Indian visas, past countries visited, and the contact details of an Indian reference. This could include friends or family members, hotel contacts, or course administrators.

Step 6: Answer the Yes or No questions.

Step 7: Upload your photo according to the specified India eVisa requirements for Norwegian citizens.

Step 8: Upload a PDF copy of your passport’s bio page, ensuring that all details and your photograph are clearly visible.

Step 9: Review and verify all the information you have entered.

Step 10: Pay the processing fee to complete your application. Print a copy of the eVisa to present at immigration upon arrival in India.

Visa Processing Time and Next Steps

• Visa Processing Time: The processing time for an India eVisa for Norwegian citizens is typically 72 hours. Apply a week before to be on the safe side!

• Visa Status Tracking: You can track your India eVisa application status on the official India eVisa website using your Application ID and passport number.

• Arrival in India: Upon arrival, present your printed eVisa, along with your passport, at the immigration counter. The immigration officer will stamp your passport, allowing you to enter India.

• Validity: Remember, your India eVisa is valid for entry through specific ports and during the validity period mentioned on the eVisa. Ensure your travel plans align with these details.

India eVisa Rejection Reasons for Norwegian Citizens

While most India eVisa applications are approved smoothly, a few reasons may lead to rejection. Be mindful of these to avoid any setbacks:

1. Incomplete or inaccurate information in the application form.

2. Unclear or low-quality passport photo or passport bio-page scan.

3. Insufficient proof of funds or travel arrangements.

4. Failure to meet the eligibility criteria or provide required documents.

Top Reasons to Visit India for Norwegian Tourists

Climate

India experiences a diverse range of climates, from the tropical south to the temperate north. Norwegian tourists should be prepared for warmer temperatures compared to their home country.

The best time to visit most parts of India is during the winter months (November to February), when the weather is pleasant and dry. However, if you plan to visit the Himalayas, summer (April to June) is ideal for clear mountain views.

Flight

• Several airlines, including Air India, Lufthansa, and Emirates, operate flights from Norway to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.

• The average flight duration from Oslo to Delhi is around 11 hours.

• Prices ranging from NOK 5,000 to NOK 8,000 (Rs. 37,000 to Rs. 59,000) for a round trip.

Visa Requirements

Norwegian citizens must obtain an eVisa before traveling to India. The India eVisa application process for Norwegian citizens is entirely online and usually takes 3-4 working days. The eVisa fees vary based on the visa type and validity.

Currency Exchange and Affordability

As of 2024, 1 NOK is approximately equal to 8.5 INR. India is generally an affordable destination for Norwegian tourists, with budget-friendly options for accommodation, food, and transportation.

A one-week trip to India can cost around NOK 7,000 to NOK 10,000 (Rs. 59,500 to Rs. 85,000) per person, including flights, accommodation, and activities.

Tourism Trends and Popularity

India has seen a steady growth in Norwegian tourist arrivals over the years. In 2022, around 20,000 Norwegians visited India for tourism purposes. Popular destinations among Norwegian tourists include the Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur), Goa, Kerala, and the Himalayas.

Language Support

English is widely spoken in major Indian cities and tourist areas, making it easier for Norwegian travelers to communicate. However, learning a few basic phrases in Hindi or the local language of your destination can be helpful.

Many hotels and tour operators also provide language assistance to international tourists.

Religious and Cultural Ties

India is a land of diverse religions and cultural traditions. Norwegian tourists can explore ancient Hindu temples, majestic Islamic mosques, beautiful Christian churches, and peaceful Buddhist monasteries.

The country celebrates numerous festivals, such as Diwali, Holi, and Durga Puja, offering a glimpse into its vibrant culture.

FAQs

1. What is an Indian tourist eVisa, and who can apply?

An Indian tourist eVisa is an electronic travel authorization that allows citizens of various countries, including Norwegian citizens, to enter India for tourism purposes.

2. What documents are needed for a Norwegian eVisa?

To apply for an India eVisa as a Norwegian citizen, you’ll need a valid passport, a recent digital photograph, proof of sufficient funds, a return/onward journey ticket, and other supporting documents as required.

3. How long is the India eVisa valid for Norwegian citizens?

The 30-day e-tourist visa is valid for 30 days from the date of arrival, while the 1-year and 5-year e-tourist visas are valid for 365 days and 5 years, respectively, from the date of issuance.

4. How much does an India eVisa cost?

The India eVisa fees for Norwegian citizens vary based on the visa type and validity, ranging from NOK 95 (Rs. 846) for a 30-day e-Tourist Visa during the off-season to NOK 758 (Rs. 6,771) for a 5-year e-Tourist Visa.

5. Can I apply for an India eVisa on arrival?

No, Norwegian citizens cannot apply for an India eVisa on arrival. You must apply online and obtain the eVisa before traveling to India.

6. Is the India eVisa a single-entry or multiple-entry visa?

The 30-day e-Tourist Visa is a double-entry visa, while the 1-year and 5-year e-Tourist Visas allow multiple entries into India.

7. Do I need to print my India Visa for Norwegian Citizens?

Yes, you must print a copy of your India eVisa and carry it with you when traveling to India. You’ll need to present the printed eVisa at the immigration counter upon arrival.

8. What if my India eVisa application is rejected?

If your India eVisa application is rejected, carefully review the reason provided and take the necessary steps to rectify the issue before reapplying.

9. Do minors need their Indian eVisa?

Yes, minors, regardless of their age, need their Indian eVisa to enter India.

10. How long does India eVisa processing take?

The processing time for an India eVisa for Norwegian citizens is typically 72 hours or more. However, it’s advisable to apply at least 4 days before your trip.