India launches e-visa for Kuwaitis: Here's everything you need to know

TL;DR:

• India began offering fully online e-visas to Kuwaiti citizens from July 13, 2025.

• Tourist e-visas are valid for up to 5 years and cost USD 80, while business, medical, conference, and AYUSH (yoga/wellness) visas range from USD 40–80.

• The application process is completely online, with biometrics collected upon arrival and processing times of 3–4 working days. India still accepts paper visa applications via traditional diplomatic channels.

In a landmark step to strengthen bilateral ties, India has officially rolled out a fully digital e-visa facility for Kuwaiti citizens, offering a streamlined alternative to traditional visa applications. Effective from July 13, 2025, the initiative spans five key categories including tourism, business, and medical visits, signalling India's commitment to fostering easier mobility and deeper engagement with one of its most important Gulf partners. For thousands of Kuwaitis keen on exploring India for travel, healthcare, or commerce, the process has now become simpler, faster, and entirely online. The initiative is intended to simplify travel and bolster diplomatic ties.


Five E-Visa Categories

As per the Embassy of India in Kuwait, Kuwaitis can apply for:

1. Tourist (5-year validity, 180-day stays)

2. Business (1-year validity)

3. Medical (60-day validity)

4. Conference (30-day validity)

5. AYUSH/Wellness (yoga, Ayurveda)

• Fees and Validity: For Tourist e-visa, the fees will be USD 80 for a 5-year visa. For the four other categories, the fees as stated will be USD 40–80 depending on type and duration.

• Process: Applications from document upload to payment are handled online only. No embassy visits required. Upon arrival in India, fingerprints and photographs are captured at entry points.

• Processing Time: Most applications will be processed in 3–4 business days, with early technical issues expected during the initial rollout.

• Continued Paper Visa Option: For those who prefer traditional methods, paper visa applications remain valid, handled through India’s Consular Application Centre in Kuwait.

Reasons Behind the Change

• Kuwait ranked among India’s key Gulf partners in tourism and trade.

• Around one million Indian expatriates reside in Kuwait; the e-visa is a move to strengthen bilateral engagement.

• The program supports India’s broader digital diplomacy agenda in the Gulf.

Media reports note the rollout proceeded smoothly, with no major delays. Officials anticipate a rise in Kuwaiti tourism, business visits, medical treatment and wellness tourism in coming months.
India’s e-visa launch for Kuwaitis significantly simplifies travel and supports stronger people-to-people, business, and diplomatic ties. The scheme combines convenience, longer validity, and digital ease, while maintaining traditional visa channels. As Kuwaitis increasingly travel to India, this move empowers individuals and sectors like tourism, wellness and trade to flourish with reduced administrative burdens.

FAQ

• Q1. When did the e-visa initiative begin?

It launched officially on July 13, 2025, with applications open from July 14, 2025 onward.

• Q2. What are the eligible categories?

Tourist (5 years), Business (1 year), Medical (60 days), Conference (30 days), AYUSH/wellness.

• Q3. How much does each visa cost?

USD 80 for 5-year tourist visas; USD 40–80 for other categories.

• Q4. How long is processing?

Most applications take 3–4 business days.

• Q5. Is biometric data required?

Yes, captured at entry points in India.

• Q6. Can I still apply through the embassy?

Yes, the embassy will continue to accept paper visa applications.