India is a country whose history stretches back more than 5,000 years. Alongside Mesopotamian culture, the Indus Valley civilization was one of the first to develop, making this country one of the destinations with the greatest historical and cultural depth in the world.
All of that history makes it worthy of having a multitude of sites declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India. It is also currently the third most powerful economy on the planet and one of the countries with the greatest future prospects, attracting both cultural travelers and professionals from around the world. With English as a co-official language alongside Hindi, India is an accessible and fascinating destination for English-speaking travelers.
In this article you will find all the updated requirements to travel to India: mandatory documentation, vaccines, travel insurance, currency, and everything you need to prepare before your trip.
Requirements to Travel to India
To travel to India you will need a valid passport and a visa. Below we explain each requirement in detail.
Passport
The passport must have, at the time of entry into the country, a minimum validity of 6 months and at least 2 blank pages for entry stamps. A national ID card is not valid for entry into India.
Visa
A visa is mandatory for virtually all nationalities. The most convenient option is the e-Visa (electronic visa), which can be processed entirely online before your trip.
For full details on the available visa types, requirements, costs, processing times, and the 2026 updates (including the new mandatory electronic arrival card), check out our complete guide on how to get a visa for India. If you already know which option you need, you can apply for your India visa online through Visagov.
Vaccines to Travel to India
There are no mandatory vaccines required to travel to India from the United States directly. The only exception is the yellow fever vaccination certificate, which is required solely for travelers coming from or having transited through countries with a risk of transmission in the last 15 days.
However, given the country's health conditions and subtropical climate, it is recommended to consult an international vaccination center before your trip and consider the following vaccines:
- Hepatitis A and B.
- Typhoid fever.
- Tetanus.
- Rabies: especially if you plan to have contact with animals or visit rural areas. India has the highest rate of rabies in the world.
- Malaria: the risk is low in major cities like Delhi, but higher in rural or jungle areas. It is recommended to use insect repellent, especially at dusk and at night.
- Dengue: present in both urban and rural areas.
For the most up-to-date health recommendations, check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website and our guide on vaccines for traveling to India.
Travel Insurance
Although it is not an official entry requirement, comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended before traveling to India. India does not offer free public healthcare for foreigners and access to quality medical facilities can be very expensive.
A good travel insurance policy for India should cover at least:
- Medical expenses and hospitalization, including tropical diseases.
- Medical repatriation in the event of a serious emergency.
- Loss or theft of luggage, which is common in cities with high tourist traffic.
- Traffic accidents, given the high danger level of Indian roads.
- Adventure sports, if you plan to take part in them during your trip.
Currency in India
The Indian rupee (INR) is the official currency of the country. The exchange rate is favorable for Western travelers: approximately 1 USD is equivalent to around 84 rupees (the rate fluctuates, so check it before you travel).
It is recommended to carry cash, as many establishments outside major cities do not accept cards. You can exchange currency at exchange offices in your home country or upon arrival at the destination airport.
Tips are not mandatory, but they are very common and well appreciated. At restaurants, hotels, and with tour guides, tipping is a widespread and valued practice.
International Driver's License
If you plan to rent a vehicle or drive in India, a standard driver's license from your home country is not valid. You must obtain an international driving permit before your trip.
Keep in mind that India's road infrastructure is very poor. Authorities recommend exercising extreme caution when driving and avoiding driving at night.
