Taking cash in or out of India? Read this.
If you’ve never considered a trip to India, you should think again. From the food to the stunning religious monuments, India has plenty to see and experience....
The ultimate checklist for travel to India from the USA
India is a dream destination for many - whether you want to explore the vibrant culture, spot exotic wildlife, or simply enjoy the climate and cuisine. If you’re planning a visit, use our travel to India from USA checklist to get prepared in advance.
While you’re organizing your trip, check out the international debit card from Wise. Wise is a licensed global Money Services Business which offers multi-currency accounts and cards in 40+ currencies, with mid-market currency conversion and low fees from 0.43%¹ - great for making your money go further while you’re abroad.
Travel document checklist for India
Before you plan a trip to India, take a look at the US State Department India country page² for the latest information, advisories and things to know.
We’ll walk through the requirements as shown at the time of writing (August 2023), but as things can change rapidly when it comes to international travel, checking before you go is essential.
Passport and visa
You’ll need an up to date passport with at least 6 months validity³, and either a visa or an OCI card to enter India. If you’re entering India as a tourist for 60 days or less, you can usually get a visa online - in other circumstances you’ll need to apply for a paper visa through your local Indian consulate.
How can you apply for an Indian visa from the USA?
Short term tourist visas for India can be arranged through the India visa online service⁴.
If you’re planning on a stay for longer than 60 days, or if you’ll be working or studying you’ll need to apply through the VFS service for a paper visa⁵. This can usually be done by applying online and mailing in your paperwork.
Travel insurance
Shop around for the travel insurance package that suits your preferences and needs, looking at medical cover, cover for lost or delayed baggage and personal items, and support in the case of emergencies, delays or unavoidable changes to your plans.
Do you need any vaccinations for travel to India?
Aside from Yellow Fever when arriving from an infected area, there are usually no mandatory vaccinations for India.
That said, there are often advised vaccines, depending on where you’re headed - check out the full recommendation online based on your destination⁶.
Airline tickets and hotel confirmations
You may need to provide proof of onward travel and accommodation to get your visa - and this can then be checked again at the border. Carry copies of all your bookings, just in case.
Emergency contact list
Pack a hard copy of your emergency contact list, and have one handy on your phone too - including your personal contacts, bank, insurance and accommodation information.
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What do you need to pack for a trip to India from the USA?
What you need to pack can depend a lot on what you plan to do in India. Planning ahead can help to ensure everything goes smoothly. Here are a few things to think about.
Clothing
The climate where you’re going will dictate the clothing that’s suitable - but bear in mind local and cultural sensitivities, too. If you’re entering religious sites or in more conservative areas, you may be required to cover up significantly, for example.
Medications
Don’t forget to take enough of any regular medications with you for the duration of your stay - plus a small pack of basic first aid equipment, particularly if you're headed off the beaten track.
Double check that any medications you need to take can be safely imported into India, and carry prescriptions or doctor’s notes to support if needed.
Tech Accessories
As well as all your gadgets, remember chargers and plug adapters - and double check your cell phone will work when you’re away too.
The State Department notes that in the past, US citizens have been arrested in India for carrying satellite phones, which aren’t legal for import.
Navigating Indian culture
India is a huge and varied place, so researching some of the likely cultural norms wherever you’re headed can help you make the most of your trip.
Language
You’ll find English to be fairly widely spoken in urban areas in particular, with Hindi as the official language, and a very broad range of local languages in addition.
What cultural norms should you be aware of when traveling in India?
Double check the cultural norms wherever you’re headed, bearing in mind things like religious sensitivities, which can extend to food, clothing and more.
As an example, it’s common to be asked to dress modestly when visiting sacred sites, and some states have bans on selling or consuming beef, or using items made of cowhide.
No matter where you’re headed in India, you’re in for an adventure. Use this travel checklist for India to help you prepare, and don’t forget to get Wise to help you manage your money across USD and INR easily, too.
Sources:
- Please see Terms of Use for your region or visit Wise Fees & Pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information
- US State Department - India country page
- US State Department - travel checklist
- India visa online
- India visa - VFS
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Sources checked on 08.21.2023
*Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.
This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional.
We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.
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