India Entry Hub 2026
Australia 🇦🇺 India 🇮🇳
Australia to India Visa Guide
Official 2026 entry protocols for Australian citizens. Explore the mandatory e-Arrival card, the new 2026 Baggage Rules, and updated e-Visa pricing.
| Visa Path | Stay Limit | Entries | 2026 Fee (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| e-Tourist (30 Days) | 30 Days | Double | $25 (Jul-Mar) / $10 (Apr-Jun) |
| e-Tourist (1 Year) | 90 Days/Visit | Multiple | $40 |
| e-Tourist (5 Years) | 90 Days/Visit | Multiple | $200 (Updated 2026) |
| e-Business (1 Year) | 180 Days/Year | Multiple | $215 (Specific for Aus) |
1. Mandatory Digital e-Arrival Card New for 2026
Effective in 2026, all Australian travelers must complete a digital arrival card before landing.
- 3-Day Rule: You are required to complete the **online e-Arrival Card** up to 3 days before travel to India.
- Digital Acknowledgement: Once submitted, you receive a unique reference number or QR code to show at immigration.
- Integrated Platform: This declaration is now integrated into the **Air Suvidha** system to reduce airport processing time by 30%.
2. Baggage Rules 2026 (Updated Limits) Higher Limits
India has fully revamped its customs limits for international travelers starting February 2026.
- Foreign Tourist Allowance: As an Australian tourist of foreign origin, your duty-free allowance has increased to **₹25,000** (approx. 460 AUD).
- One Laptop Rule: The new 2026 rules explicitly allow for the duty-free import of **one laptop** computer for any passenger over 18.
- Alcohol & Tobacco: Allowance remains strictly at **2 litres of alcohol** and **100 cigarettes** (down from 200 in older years).
- Digital Declaration (e-ABD): Dutiable items must now be declared through the consolidated **Air Suvidha mobile app** before landing.
3. e-Visa Requirements for Aussies Online Only
Australian citizens must obtain an e-Visa; there is no visa-on-arrival.
- Application Portal: Only use the official *indianvisaonline.gov.in* website. Beware of third-party scams charging triple the fee.
- Passport: Scanned bio-page must have at least **6 months** validity and 2 blank pages.
- Photo: Must be a recent passport-style photo with a **plain white background** and clear facial features.
- Processing: Typically takes **4-6 days** for normal processing; urgent options are available in 1-2 days.
4. 2026 Border Security & Laws Strict
India maintains high alert on specific electronics and cultural sensitivities.
- Satellite Phones: Carrying or using satellite phones (e.g., Iridium, Thuraya) is strictly illegal and can lead to arrest.
- Drones: Importing or flying drones without official permission is illegal. They will be confiscated at the airport.
- E-Cigarettes/Vapes: It is strictly illegal to import, possess, or use **e-cigarettes or vapes** in India. Penalties include imprisonment.
- Currency: You must declare if you are carrying foreign currency exceeding **USD 10,000** (approx. 15,400 AUD).
© 2026 Global Visa Guide | Information Verified via Indian Ministry of External Affairs & Smartraveller Australia.