Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need a visa for India?
   Yes, All foreign nationals entering India are required to posses a valid international travel document in the form of national passport with a valid visa for India.
   
   
2. How do I make an application for a visa to visit India?
   Contact VFS Lanka Pvt Ltd located at 433 Galle Road Colombo 03 Srilanka. Call Centre: +9411 (2) 4505588
   
   
3. Will the High Commission of India accept documents which are not in English?
   No, the application form should be filled in English only.
   
   
4. What supporting documents are needed?
   Please view - www.hcicolombo.org/passport_visaserv.shtml
   
   
5. How long does an application take to process?
   Please view - www.hcicolombo.org/passport_visaserv.shtml
   
   
6. My application and passport have been submitted and it has been a while, how can I enquire about the status of my application?
   You can inquire by online tracking through VFS tracking system.
   
   
7. Can my friend in India apply for my a visa for me?
   No. the visa has to be obtained by the applicant from the High Commission of India in the country in which applicant is residing.
   
   
8. Can I study in India?
   Yes. With a valid Student Visa.
   
   
9. Can I work in India?
   Yes with a valid Employment Visa.
   
   
10. How long will my visa be valid for?
    Tourist visas are normally valid for a period of 6 months. Validity of visa is subjected to the discretion of the High Commission of India
    
    
11. Will the visa fees be refunded?
    No refunds. Fees once received not be refunded, even if the application is withdrawn or service denied.
    
    
12. How do I know when my passport is ready for collection from the India Visa Application Centre?
    Please check the VFS tracking on the website.
    
    
13. Can I collect my passport from the High Commission of India?
    No, passport is to be collected from the place where the application is made.
    
    
14. Do I have to submit my passport and Visa application with the India Visa Application Centre only?
    Yes. However Student, research visa, Diplomats, official of foreign diplomatic Mission, UN and other international organization personnel can submit the visa application to the High Commission of India directly.
    
    
15. Can I mail my visa application and passport to the High Commission of India?
    No.
    
    
16. How do I make the payment for visa charges?
    By Cash ONLY.