Transit Visa for Delhi Airport (DEL) — Do You Need One? 2026
Everything you need to know about transiting through Indira Gandhi International Airport — airside rules, terminal-transfer requirements, and how to get an Indian e-Visa if your route needs one.
Quick Answer
Most nationalities do not need a transit visa for Delhi Airport if they stay airside (international transit area) at Terminal 3 and don't change terminals. However, any terminal transfer between T1, T2 and T3 requires clearing immigration — and that needs an Indian tourist e-Visa. Staying airside for up to 24 hours needs no transit visa for any nationality (Bureau of Immigration).
Transit Visa Requirements by Nationality
| Nationality | Airside Transit | Terminal Transfer |
|---|---|---|
| USA | Free | e-Visa required |
| UK | Free | e-Visa required |
| Germany | Free | e-Visa required |
| Canada | Free | e-Visa required |
| Australia | Free | e-Visa required |
| Japan | Free | e-Visa required |
| Singapore | Free | e-Visa required |
| UAE | Free | e-Visa required |
| Pakistan | Free | e-Visa required |
| Bangladesh | Free | e-Visa required |
| Afghanistan | Free | e-Visa required |
Source: Bureau of Immigration, India — Transit via India, checked 1 October 2026. Changing terminals or leaving the airport means clearing immigration with an Indian visa.
How to Get an Indian e-Visa for Delhi Transit
- 1
Apply online at indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa at least 4 days before travel — earlier is safer.
- 2
Upload your passport bio-page photo, a passport-style headshot, your return ticket and hotel address. Pay the fee shown for your nationality by card.
- 3
Receive your ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) by email within 72 hours. Print it and bring it — Delhi immigration sometimes requests the printout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I stay airside at Delhi Airport without a visa?
Yes for most nationalities. If you remain in the international transit area at Indira Gandhi International (DEL) without clearing immigration, no transit visa is required for the vast majority of passport holders. India’s Bureau of Immigration: a foreigner in direct transit by air does not need a transit visa if they do not leave the specified precincts of the airport, for up to 24 hours. After 24 hours a transit visa is required.
Do I need a visa to transfer between Delhi terminals?
Yes — terminal transfers between T1, T2 and T3 at DEL require you to clear immigration and re-check in, which means you need a valid Indian visa (tourist e-Visa or transit visa). The DIAL inter-terminal shuttle bus is landside-only. Book your tickets on a single airline or alliance to avoid the terminal change where possible.
How do I apply for an Indian e-Visa for a Delhi layover?
Apply online at indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa at least 4 days before travel. The fee depends on your nationality and is shown on indianvisaonline.gov.in when you apply. You'll need a passport photo, a photo of your bio page, your return ticket, and your hotel address. Approval typically comes within 72 hours and is emailed as an ETA.
How long is the e-Visa valid for transit through Delhi?
If you stay within the airport precincts for up to 24 hours, you need no visa. India’s Bureau of Immigration says a transit visa is required after 24 hours; to leave the airport you need an Indian visa such as the e-Visa — check the options for your nationality on indianvisaonline.gov.in.
Where do I clear immigration at Delhi Airport?
Arrival immigration is on the lower level at T3 (main international terminal). Have your passport, e-Visa printout or ETA email, and onward boarding pass ready. Average queue time is 25–45 minutes; can extend to 90+ minutes during peak overnight arrivals (01:00–04:00 IST).
Can I leave Delhi Airport during a long layover?
Only with a valid tourist visa or e-Visa. With a visa you can clear immigration, store luggage at the T3 left-luggage facility (24h, ~₹350/bag), and explore Delhi. Aerocity (the airport hotel district) is 10 minutes by Metro. Connaught Place and Red Fort are 35–60 minutes by Delhi Metro Airport Express Line.
Planning a Layover in Delhi?
Read our full guide on what to do in 12 or 24 hours, airport hotels, and the fastest route into central Delhi.
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