Visa FAQs

Who needs a visa to enter India?

Foreign Nationals

Delegates from most countries are required to obtain a visa to enter India.

Visa Exemptions

  • Citizens of Bhutan and Nepal: Do not require a visa to enter India and can stay in India for an indefinite period.
  • OCI Cardholders: Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cardholders do not need a visa to enter India.

What type of visa should I apply for when travelling to India to attend the 37th APACRS annual meeting?

Conference visa.

How do I apply for an Indian conference visa?

Please note that the APACRS conference organizer can only provide the official supporting documents to registered and fully paid delegates and participating exhibitors.

It is recommended that you submit your request for official documents via the APACRS website as early as possible, as the process of applying for an Indian conference visa can be complex. Delegates can submit their applications from 120 days to no later than 21 July 2025.

Visit www.apacrs2025.org/visa for more information.

What documents are required for an Indian conference visa application?

  1. Valid passport with at least six (6) months of remaining validity.
  2. Recent colored passport photo against a white background, size: 51mm (H) x 51mm (L).
  3. Official supporting documents:
    • Letter of invitation from the conference organizer
    • Political clearance letter from the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India
    • Event clearance letter from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India
  4. Completed visa application form (applicable to delegates submitting a hard copy visa application)

What is the processing time for an Indian conference visa, and why is it important to apply early?

Indian visa processing times can vary depending on the type of visa and your location, often taking 3 to 7 business days or longer. Given the complexity of the application process and potential delays, we strongly recommend that all overseas participants apply as early as possible to ensure timely approval. Applications can be submitted as early as 120 days to no later than 21 July 2025.

What should I do if my Indian conference visa application is denied?

If your visa application is denied, you will be notified of the reason for the denial. You can either re-apply with corrected or additional information or contact the nearest Indian embassy or consulate for further assistance.

Should you require further assistance, please contact us at registration2025@apacrs.org.