India, with its kaleidoscope of cultures, landscapes, and incredible affordability, is a magnetic destination for digital nomads. From the tranquil beaches of Goa to the bustling tech hubs of Bangalore, the country offers a unique blend of ancient tradition and modern convenience. But what about the legalities of working remotely?

While the digital nomad scene is thriving, navigating India’s visa system requires some planning. This comprehensive guide, Onward Free will break down everything you need to know about the Digital Nomad Visa India for 2025, from requirements to the best cities for remote work.

Does India Have a Digital Nomad Visa?

As of late 2025, India does not yet have a specific Digital Nomad Visa India. Although there have been official discussions and plans to introduce a Digital Nomad Visa India to attract remote workers and boost the economy, it has not been officially launched. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t legally work remotely from this incredible country. There are well-established visa routes that digital nomads can use.

Alternatives to the Digital Nomad Visa in India

For now, remote workers and freelancers must use existing visa categories to legally base themselves in India. The key is to choose the correct one that permits your work activities as an alternative to a formal Digital Nomad Visa India.

Tourist e-Visa

The Indian Tourist e-Visa is designed strictly for tourism purposes. This includes holidays, visiting friends and family, and attending short-term yoga retreats. It is crucial to understand that performing any kind of work, paid or unpaid, for a company in your home country or for clients is strictly prohibited on a tourist visa. Attempting to do so can lead to serious consequences, including deportation and being barred from future entry.

Business e-Visa

The Business e-Visa is the most appropriate and legal option for most digital nomads wanting to work remotely from India. This visa is intended for foreign nationals visiting India for business-related purposes, which can include:

• Attending technical or business meetings.
• Establishing a business or industrial venture.
• Exploring trade opportunities.
• Recruiting manpower.
• Collaborating with local companies.

For a digital nomad, your remote work for foreign clients or a foreign employer can fall under the scope of “attending business meetings” (virtually) and managing your own business interests. This is the most widely accepted interpretation for legal remote work in the absence of a Digital Nomad Visa India.

Other Visa Options

Other long-term options like an Employment Visa or Student Visa exist, but these are not suitable for digital nomads. They require you to be employed by an Indian company or enrolled in an Indian educational institution, which doesn’t fit the remote work model sought with a Digital Nomad Visa India.

How to Apply for an Indian e-Visa

The application process for Indian e-Visas is handled entirely online, making it relatively straightforward, and this process will likely inform the future Digital Nomad Visa India application.

Application Process

1. Visit the Official Portal: Go to the official Government of India e-Visa website (indianvisaonline.gov.in). Beware of third-party websites that charge extra fees.
2. Fill Out the Application Form: Select “e-Visa” and complete the form with your personal details, passport information, and the specifics of your intended travel. Be sure to select the “e-Business Visa” option.
3. Upload Documents: You will be prompted to upload a recent passport-style photograph and a scanned copy of your passport’s bio page. For the business visa, you will also need to upload a business card or a letter from your client/employer.
4. Pay the Fee: Use a credit or debit card to pay the visa fee online.
5. Receive Confirmation: After submission, you will receive an Application ID. The approved Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) will be sent to your email, typically within 72 hours.
6. Print Your ETA: Print a copy of the ETA to present to immigration officials upon your arrival in India.

Required Documents

For a Business e-Visa, you will generally need:

• A passport valid for at least six months from your date of arrival.
• A recent front-facing photograph with a white background.
• A scanned copy of your passport’s information page.
• A business card or a letter from your client or employer explaining the nature of your business and activities in India. For freelancers, a simple letter from a client stating your professional engagement is usually sufficient.
• Proof of Onward Travel: While not always required during the online application, it’s highly likely that immigration officials will ask for proof of a flight out of India upon your arrival. For nomads who prefer flexibility, services like Onward Free can provide a verifiable temporary flight reservation.

Visa Fees & Processing Time

• Fees: The cost of the Business e-Visa varies depending on your nationality but typically ranges from $80 to $100 USD.
• Processing Time: The standard processing time is about 72 hours, but it’s wise to apply at least one to two weeks before your intended travel date to account for any potential delays.

Duration, Extensions & Stay Limits

The standard Indian Business e-Visa is typically granted for one year with multiple entries. However, each continuous stay is limited to 180 days (approximately six months).

After 180 days, you must leave the country. You can, however, re-enter immediately (even the next day) to start a new 180-day period. This process can be repeated throughout the visa’s one-year validity. It’s important to note that e-Visas are generally not extendable from within India.

Can Digital Nomads Work Remotely from India?

Yes, absolutely. As long as you are on a Business e-Visa, you can legally work remotely for your foreign employer or clients while residing in India. The key is to be truthful about your intentions and use the correct visa category.

Best Cities in India for Digital Nomads

India’s vastness means there’s a perfect spot for every type of nomad.

Goa

The quintessential destination for lifestyle-focused nomads. Goa offers beautiful beaches, a relaxed atmosphere, and a vibrant international community. It has a well-developed infrastructure for remote workers, including numerous coworking spaces and trendy cafes with reliable Wi-Fi. The region is also a hub for yoga, meditation, and wellness retreats, allowing for a perfect work-life balance.

• Cost of Living: Expect to spend between $600 – $1,200 USD per month. Prices are higher during the peak tourist season (December-February).

Bangalore

Known as the “Silicon Valley of India,” Bangalore is a top choice for tech-focused professionals. The city is a bustling hub of innovation, home to countless tech companies, startups, and a large pool of skilled talent. It boasts the best infrastructure in the country for remote work, with fast, reliable internet widely available in apartments, cafes, and numerous modern co-working spaces. This vibrant ecosystem provides excellent networking opportunities for professionals in the tech industry.

• Cost of Living: A comfortable lifestyle costs between $800 – $1,500 USD per month, making it more expensive than other cities but still affordable by global standards.

Dharamshala & Rishikesh

Nestled in the Himalayas, these towns are hubs for spirituality and wellness. They are ideal for nomads seeking a slower pace of life and unparalleled natural beauty.

• Cost of Living: These are extremely budget-friendly, with monthly expenses ranging from $400 – $800 USD. The internet can be less reliable here.

Mumbai & Delhi

For those who thrive on energy and chaos, these megacities offer endless possibilities, world-class amenities, and rich cultural sights. As major economic and cultural centers, they provide extensive professional networks and a plethora of co-working spaces, alongside a vibrant nightlife and culinary scene that reflects the country’s incredible diversity. From historical monuments to modern art galleries and bustling markets, there’s always something to explore after a day’s work.

• Cost of Living: Be prepared for the highest costs in India, ranging from $900 – $2,000+ USD per month. Accommodation, especially in Mumbai, is the biggest expense.

Pros & Cons of Choosing India as a Digital Nomad Base

Weighing the benefits against the drawbacks is a key step in deciding if India is the right fit for your remote work lifestyle.

Advantages

• Affordability: India is one of the most budget-friendly countries in the world. Accommodation, food, and transportation are incredibly cheap.
• Cultural Diversity: Every state feels like a new country, with its own language, cuisine, and traditions.
• Food Paradise: The culinary landscape is vast, delicious, and caters to all dietary preferences, especially vegetarians and vegans.
• Widespread English: English is widely spoken in business, tourism, and among the younger population, making communication relatively easy.

Challenges

• Bureaucracy: Dealing with official processes can be slow and sometimes confusing.
• Infrastructure Gaps: While improving, internet and electricity can be unreliable in more rural or remote areas.
• Culture Shock: The pace of life, noise, and social customs can be overwhelming for first-time visitors.
• Health and Hygiene: Navigating food and water safety requires caution to avoid getting sick.

FAQs – Digital Nomad Visa India

Q: Can I work on a tourist visa in India? A: No. Working on a tourist visa is illegal and can result in severe penalties. You must use a Business e-Visa.

Q: Do I need to pay taxes in India as a digital nomad? A: If you stay in India for more than 182 days in a financial year, you may become a tax resident. It’s best to consult with a tax professional to understand your obligations.

Q: Is India safe for solo female digital nomads? A: India is a complex country. While millions of women travel safely, it’s essential to take precautions, especially in larger cities. Researching local customs, dressing modestly, and avoiding being out alone late at night are recommended.

Q: How fast is the internet in India? A: It varies greatly. Major cities like Bangalore and Mumbai have excellent high-speed fiber optic internet. In more remote areas like the Himalayas, connectivity can be slower and less reliable.

Conclusion

India offers a profoundly rewarding experience for the adventurous digital nomad. While it lacks a dedicated Digital Nomad Visa India for now, the Business e-Visa provides a clear and legal path to working remotely from this vibrant and captivating country. By understanding the requirements, choosing the right location, and embracing both its wonders and its challenges, you can set yourself up for an unforgettable chapter in your remote work journey.