Reference Name on Indian Visa Application Form
It is easier to apply for an Indian electronic visa than a regular visa. Foreign nationals traveling to India can choose their Indian e-Visa type according to their travel purpose. There are 5 types of Indian e-Visas.
During the application process, it is mandatory to provide a reference name.
What is a Reference Name in an Indian e-Visa Application Form?
The Reference Name field on an Indian e-Visa application is where you provide the name of an Indian connection or someone who can vouch for you. For internal controls, giving a reference name is necessary. This facilitates the Immigration Authorities' understanding of the traveler's plans and relationships within India.
What Makes a Reference Name Necessary?
While filling out an application form, providing a reference name is essential for internal controls. This helps the Immigration Authorities know that the traveler has connections in India, or where they will stay. Also, this provides clear information about the purpose of their visit.
Types of Indian e-Visas and Reference Name Requirements
Travelers can provide a reference name according to the purpose of the visit. For example, if a visitor travels to India for a friend's gathering, they can provide their friend's name as a reference. There are 5 types of Indian e-Visa. We shall explain the purpose of each e-Visa type and provide samples of the reference names.
Let’s get into them in detail-
Indian Tourist e-Visa
Purpose- Tourism, short-term courses, volunteering, visiting friends & family, recreational purposes, etc.
Reference- Family members or friends, teacher, administrative staff, hotel or stay operator.
Indian Business e-Visa
Purpose- Attending Business events, commercial expos, meetings, purchasing or selling goods, etc.
Reference- Business partners in India, Program coordinators, Administrative staff, Business contacts, etc.
Indian Medical e-Visa
Purpose- Consulting an Indian doctor, surgeon, etc. Medical treatment.
Reference- Doctor, Surgeon, Medical staff, Medical administrative staff.
Indian Medical Attendant e-Visa
Purpose- Accompanying a patient to India for medical treatment.
Reference- Doctor, Surgeon, Medical staff, Medical administrative staff.
Indian E-Conference Visa
Purpose- Attending Conferences, webinars, etc.
Reference- Conference or webinar managers, program coordinators, etc.
What If You Don’t Have a Reference?
There are various cases where you do not have a reference. Especially if you're visiting India for the first time on your own or arriving by cruise ship but don't plan to stay. Let's see what you can do in these instances. If you are arriving in India via cruise ship and will not be staying, please include the name and address of your travel agency or the Indian cruise ship company/office. In another scenario, include your hotel manager's or stay operator's name and address as a reference. It is mandatory to provide a reference. However, if you have no connections in India then you can give references as mentioned above.
READ MORE:
Traveling is a thrilling adventure, if this adventure is mixed with the cruise ship tour, then you may also want to explore India when the cruise ship anchors on the Indian harbor. Learn more at Everything you need to know about Indian Visa requirements for Cruise ship
What Kind of Information Is Required for Reference?
These are the information you need to give while filling out the reference -
- Reference Name
- Address
- Phone number
It is as simple as that. Moreover, you must provide a reference from your home country.
Home Country Reference
It is necessary to include references from your home country in addition to Indian references; however, please make sure that the references you add are of individuals and, not organizations, etc. Providing authentic references is vital. You can add your travel partners as references if they are from your home country.
Travelers should ensure they have given accurate and authentic information while filling out the application form. If you encounter any issues contact the Indian e-Visa customer support.
READ MORE:
We assume that if you are reading this article, then you are doing research into the cities and tourist places that India has to offer. India has rich tapestry and abundant variety, there is no shortage of place to visit. If you are a foreigner who is reading this, then you should first apply for an electronic Visa for India, after checking that you meet Indian Visa requirement. Learn more at 5 Best Places to Visit In India.
Citizens of many countries including Argentine citizens, Colombian citizens, French citizens, Indonesian citizens and Mexican citizens are eligible to apply for Indian e-Visa.