Do you need my actual passport when applying for the India eVisa?

No, you do not need to submit your physical passport when applying for an India eVisa. Instead, you only need to provide a clear digital scan of your passport’s biographical page during the application process.

Why the Physical Passport Book Is Not Required

The India eVisa system is entirely electronic, designed to simplify and expedite the visa application process for eligible travelers. Because it's a digital authorization system, there is no need to mail or physically submit your passport. Here’s why:

Electronic Verification: The Indian government uses your uploaded passport scan to verify your identity and travel eligibility.
Digital Record: Once your eVisa is approved, the authorization is electronically linked to your passport number in the immigration system. When you arrive in India, immigration officials can verify your eVisa electronically by matching it to your passport.
Efficiency and Security: This reduces the risk of your passport being lost in transit and speeds up processing times.

What You Need to Upload Instead

Passport Biographical Page (Scanned Copy):

Must be clear and in color.
Should be in PDF format, typically under 300 KB.
Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival in India and have 2 blank pages.

Recent Photograph:

A color, passport-style photo with a white background.
Typically uploaded in JPEG format under 1 MB.

At the Time of Entry into India

Even though your eVisa is electronically linked to your passport, you must still carry the same physical passport used in the application. Upon arrival:

Present your passport and a printed copy of your eVisa approval.
Be prepared to show a return or onward travel ticket, and proof of sufficient funds if requested.