Traveling to India with a Valid e‑Visa in an Expired Passport

Traveling to India with a Valid eVisa in an Expired Passport

Overview

If your India eVisa was issued in a passport that has since expired, you can still travel to India. The Government of India allows eVisa holders to enter using both the old (expired) passport containing the eVisa and a current, valid passport. This guidance is confirmed by the Consulate General of India in San Francisco.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Confirm Your eVisa and Passport Status

Make sure your eVisa is still valid at the time of travel.
Your old passport—despite being expired—must contain the original eVisa.

2. Carry Both Passports at Immigration

Bring your expired passport with the valid eVisa.
Also carry your new, valid passport with at least six months validity and blank pages as required.

Immigration officers in India will use both documents to verify your identity and eVisa authorization.

Details to Keep in Mind

You are not required to transfer the eVisa onto your new passport—traveling with both passports is sufficient under current rules.
However, for future convenience (e.g., if your old passport is lost), consider applying for a new eVisa or checking with the Indian consulate about a transfer.
The new passport should meet standard validity requirements:
At least six months validity from the date of entry to India
At least two blank pages for immigration stamps

Why Carry Both Passports?

Immigration authorities need to verify that the visa was issued to the same person and passport. Carrying both passports ensures you meet identity and visa validity requirements without issue.

Best Practices for Easy Entry

Organize your documents: Keep both passports readily accessible during travel.
Inform airline staff that your valid eVisa is in an expired passport before check-in.
Bring printed copies of both passports and the eVisa approval confirmation as backup.
Consider transferring your visa later for long-term ease, though it is not mandatory for your current trip.

Summary

You can travel to India on a valid eVisa issued in an expired passport.
Bring both passports (expired passport with eVisa and your valid current passport).
Ensure your current passport meets standard travel validity requirements.
Optional: transfer your eVisa for future convenience.

Need Help?

If you'd like assistance with future visa transfers or reapplying for a new eVisa in your valid passport, please contact our support team. We're here to help ensure your travel to India goes smoothly.