Key Takeaways
• Surat International Airport becomes India’s 32nd e-Visa entry point on May 30, 2025.
• Surat airport can handle 5.5 million passengers annually after its December 2023 expansion.
• e-Visa travelers must list Surat as their port of entry to use this facility.
Surat International Airport Becomes India’s 32nd e-Visa Entry Point: What Travelers, Businesses, and Gujarat Can Expect
Surat International Airport has officially joined the list of designated entry points for India’s e-Visa program, effective May 30, 2025. This move, confirmed by the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Bureau of Immigration, marks a major step in India’s push to modernize travel, boost regional economies, and make international journeys smoother for millions of travelers. Surat is now the second airport in Gujarat to offer this facility, after Ahmedabad, and the 32nd in the country overall.
This change is more than just a policy update—it’s a practical shift that affects travelers, airlines, local businesses, and the wider Gujarat region. Here’s a detailed look at what this development means, how it works, and why it matters.
What’s Changed: Surat International Airport Now Accepts e-Visa Travelers
As of May 30, 2025, international travelers holding a valid Indian e-Visa can fly directly into Surat International Airport. This means that Surat joins a select group of airports and seaports across India where e-Visa holders are allowed to enter the country. Before this change, travelers with e-Visas had to land at other designated airports, often requiring inconvenient connecting flights or long journeys by road to reach Surat and the surrounding region.
The central government’s formal notification in late May 2025 completed all the necessary steps for Surat’s inclusion. The announcement was made public in the first week of June, with multiple government and travel news sources confirming the operational status of the e-Visa facility at Surat.
Key facts:
– Effective Date: May 30, 2025
– Total e-Visa Entry Airports in India: 32 (including Surat)
– Total e-Visa Entry Seaports: 5
– Surat International Airport’s Annual Capacity: 5.5 million passengers (after terminal expansion in December 2023)
Why This Matters: The Impact on Travelers and Gujarat
For International Travelers
The addition of Surat International Airport as an e-Visa entry point makes travel to Gujarat much easier for visitors from around the world. Instead of landing in other cities and taking connecting flights or long drives, travelers can now fly directly to Surat if their e-Visa lists it as the port of entry. This saves time, reduces travel stress, and opens up new possibilities for tourism and business visits.
For Airlines and the Travel Industry
Airlines now have the opportunity to introduce more direct international routes to Surat, responding to the expected increase in demand. Tour operators and travel agencies can offer new packages and itineraries focused on Surat and the broader Gujarat region. Local businesses, especially those in the diamond and textile industries, are likely to see more international clients and partners arriving directly in the city.
For Surat and Gujarat’s Economy
Surat is known as the “Diamond City” because of its global gem trade, but it’s also a hub for textiles, business, and culture. With easier access for international travelers, the city and the wider Gujarat region are poised for growth in tourism, trade, and investment. Local officials and business leaders have welcomed the move, expecting it to bring more visitors, create jobs, and support economic development.
For Immigration and Security
The e-Visa system uses digital processing and pre-arrival screening, which helps immigration authorities verify travelers’ identities and travel purposes before they arrive. This reduces paperwork, speeds up processing at the airport, and enhances security by making it harder for people to use fake documents.
How the e-Visa Process Works at Surat International Airport
Travelers planning to enter India through Surat International Airport using an e-Visa need to follow a clear set of steps. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide:
- Apply Online: Go to the official Indian e-Visa portal at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/. This is the only official website for Indian e-Visa applications.
- Complete the Application: Fill out the online form and upload the required documents, such as your passport photo and a scanned copy of your passport’s information page. Most e-Visas allow you to apply up to 120 days before your trip, but you must apply at least 4 days before your planned travel date.
- Receive Your ETA: After your application is processed (usually within 72 hours), you’ll get an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) by email. Print this document and keep it with your passport.
- Book Your Flight: Make sure you book a direct international flight to Surat International Airport. Your e-Visa must list Surat as your port of entry. If you arrive at a non-designated airport, you will not be allowed to enter India with an e-Visa.
- Arrive and Clear Immigration: When you land in Surat, go to the immigration counter. Show your ETA, passport, and any supporting documents. The immigration officer will verify your details and, if everything is in order, grant you entry for the duration and purpose specified on your e-Visa.
- Enjoy Your Stay: Once cleared, you can stay in India for the period allowed by your e-Visa, whether it’s for tourism, business, medical treatment, or another approved purpose.
Important: Only enter India through one of the 32 designated e-Visa airports or 5 seaports. Arriving at a non-approved entry point with an e-Visa will result in denial of entry.
Who Oversees the e-Visa Program?
The Indian e-Visa program is managed by the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Bureau of Immigration. These authorities are responsible for setting the rules, processing applications, and ensuring security at all designated entry points.
Local airport management and Gujarat state officials played a key role in advocating for Surat’s inclusion. They pointed to cases where travelers were denied entry at Surat because the airport wasn’t on the e-Visa list, highlighting the need for more regional access points.
What Types of e-Visas Are Available?
India offers several types of e-Visas, including:
– e-Tourist Visa: For sightseeing, visiting friends or family, or short-term recreation.
– e-Business Visa: For business meetings, trade, or attending conferences.
– e-Medical Visa: For medical treatment in recognized hospitals.
– e-Medical Attendant Visa: For people accompanying a patient with an e-Medical Visa.
– e-Conference Visa: For attending government-approved conferences.
Each type has its own requirements and allowed length of stay. You can find detailed information and apply for the correct category on the official Indian e-Visa portal.
Why Surat? Background and Recent Developments
Surat’s inclusion as an e-Visa entry point is the result of several factors:
- Growing Demand: Surat is a major business and cultural center, attracting visitors from around the world. Local authorities and business groups pushed for the upgrade after incidents where e-Visa holders were turned away at the airport.
- Airport Expansion: The airport’s new terminal, opened in December 2023, can handle up to 5.5 million passengers a year. This made it a strong candidate for international e-Visa operations.
- Government Strategy: The central government aims to decentralize international arrivals, reduce pressure on major airports, and promote regional tourism and business hubs.
India’s e-Visa program itself has grown rapidly since its launch in 2014-2015. The number of eligible countries and entry points has steadily increased, making it easier for more people to visit India for different purposes.
What Stakeholders Are Saying
Travelers
International visitors now have a more direct and convenient way to reach Surat and Gujarat. This is especially helpful for business travelers, tourists, and people visiting family in the region. No more long layovers or extra travel within India—just a simple flight and a smooth arrival process.
Local Businesses
Surat’s diamond and textile industries, as well as hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, expect to see more international clients and customers. This could mean more business deals, higher sales, and new opportunities for growth.
Airlines
With Surat now on the e-Visa map, airlines may introduce new direct international flights to the city. This could increase passenger numbers and make Surat a more important hub for travel in western India.
Government
Officials see this as part of a larger plan to modernize India’s travel and immigration systems. By using digital tools like the e-Visa, the government hopes to make travel easier, safer, and more attractive for visitors from around the world.
Security Experts
The e-Visa system’s digital processing and pre-arrival checks help prevent document fraud and improve border security. This is important for keeping travelers safe and maintaining the integrity of India’s borders.
What’s Next? Future Outlook for Surat and the e-Visa Program
The addition of Surat International Airport to the e-Visa entry list is expected to have several long-term effects:
- More Regional Airports: India may continue to add other regional airports and seaports to the e-Visa program, making international travel even more accessible.
- Tourism Growth: Surat and the wider Gujarat region are likely to see more international visitors, boosting local tourism and related industries.
- Digital Upgrades: Ongoing investment in digital infrastructure and streamlined immigration processes is expected, making travel to India faster and more secure.
According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, these changes are part of a broader trend toward digital travel solutions and regional economic development in India.
Step-by-Step Summary Table: Surat International Airport e-Visa Facility
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Effective Date | May 30, 2025 |
| Total e-Visa Airports | 32 (including Surat) |
| Surat Airport Capacity | 5.5 million passengers/year |
| Eligible for e-Visa Entry | Yes (must specify Surat as port of entry) |
| Other Gujarat e-Visa Airports | Ahmedabad |
| Application Portal | https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/ |
| Support Contacts | [email protected], +91 82 7808 7808 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I enter India through Surat International Airport with any type of visa?
A: Only travelers with a valid Indian e-Visa that lists Surat as the port of entry can use this facility. Other types of visas may have different requirements and entry points.
Q: What happens if I arrive at Surat with an e-Visa but did not specify it as my port of entry?
A: You may be denied entry. Always make sure your e-Visa lists Surat International Airport as your arrival point.
Q: Where can I get help with my e-Visa application?
A: Use the official Indian e-Visa portal at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/. For support, email [email protected] or call +91 82 7808 7808.
Q: Are there other airports in Gujarat with e-Visa facilities?
A: Yes, Ahmedabad is the other airport in Gujarat that accepts e-Visa travelers.
Q: What documents do I need to show at Surat International Airport?
A: Bring your printed ETA, your passport, and any supporting documents required for your e-Visa category.
Official Resources and Contacts
- Indian e-Visa Portal: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/
- Indian e-Visa Support: [email protected] | +91 82 7808 7808 or +91 11 24300666
- Surat Airport/Travel Assistance: [email protected] | www.greenoutdoors.in
For travelers from the United States 🇺🇸, the U.S. Embassy in India can be reached at [email protected] or +(91) (11) 2419-8000 for consular assistance.
Final Takeaway
Surat International Airport’s new status as an e-Visa entry point is a major milestone for India’s travel and immigration system. It opens the door for more international visitors, supports local businesses, and strengthens Gujarat’s position as a global destination. Whether you’re a traveler planning your next trip, a business looking for new opportunities, or a local resident, this change brings new possibilities and a brighter future for Surat and the region.
For the latest updates and to apply for your Indian e-Visa, always use the official government portal. This ensures you have the most accurate information and a smooth travel experience.
Learn Today
e-Visa → An electronic visa allowing digital application and pre-approval for entry into India’s airports or seaports.
ETA → Electronic Travel Authorization sent via email as proof of e-Visa approval before travel.
Ministry of Home Affairs → Indian government department responsible for immigration policies and managing the e-Visa program.
Port of Entry → A designated airport or seaport where travelers with e-Visas can legally enter India.
Pre-arrival Screening → Security checks completed before travelers arrive to ensure identity and reduce fraud risks.
This Article in a Nutshell
Surat International Airport now accepts e-Visa holders, improving direct access to Gujarat. This change boosts tourism, business, and regional growth while simplifying travel with digital processing and enhanced security for millions visiting India.
— By VisaVerge.com
