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. Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan passport holders need advance authorisation even for airside transit.
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 | Visa required | e-Visa required |
| Bangladesh | Visa required | e-Visa required |
| Afghanistan | Visa required | e-Visa required |
Rules are correct at the time of writing; always check with Indian authorities before flying.
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 ~$25–40 USD 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. The main exceptions are Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan, where airside transit also requires advance authorisation.
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 30-day e-Visa costs roughly $25 (low season) or $40 (high season). 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?
The 30-day Indian e-Visa allows double entry within 30 days from arrival. A 1-year multiple-entry e-Visa (~$40–80) gives more flexibility for return travellers. There is no separate dedicated transit-visa product — the tourist e-Visa covers transit needs for nationalities that need it.
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.
Delhi Layover Guide →Search flights to Delhi (DEL)
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