Can I travel to India with a refugee travel document?
Traveling to India with a Refugee Travel Document (RTD) is possible, but it is not automatic. Since India is not a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention nor the 1967 Protocol, it does not treat Refugee Travel Documents the same way as regular national passports for visa facilitation purposes. Visa applications from RTD holders are generally assessed on a case-by-case basis by Indian diplomatic missions, depending on the traveler's background, legal status in the issuing country, and purpose of travel
Due to this, an RTD does not allow you to enter India visa-free. Before traveling, you will have to seek the relevant visa at an Indian Embassy or Consulate.
1. Do RTD holders need a visa for India
Yes. In any case, regardless of what country your refugee travel document was issued (Canada, the U.S., the U.K., Australia, Germany, and so on), you will have to apply to obtain an Indian visa beforehand. India does not permit RTD holders to use the visa-free or visa-on-arrival, and it has to be approved on a case-by-case basis.
To apply, you will typically need to:
- Submit a standard visa application at an Indian Embassy/Consulate.
- Submit your RTD
- Provide proof of legal residence (PR card, papers of refugee status, asylum decision, etc.)
- Give travel information, accommodation information, and the intention of the visit.
Approval is not guaranteed and depends on the decision of Indian immigration authorities
2. Can RTD holders apply for an Indian eVisa? Generally, No.
The eVisa system used in India necessitates the usage of a national passport and not a refugee travel document.
Indian eVisa applications require a valid national passport. Refugee Travel Documents are generally not accepted for eVisa applications, and RTD holders must apply through an Indian Embassy or Consulate instead.
3. Required documents for RTD visa applications
To get an Indian visa with an RTD, the embassy might require:
- Refugee Travel Document (RTD)
- Evidence of legal residence in the country of issue.
- Passport-style photos
- Completed visa application form.
- Purpose of travel (tourism, family visit, business, medical)
- Bank statements / financial evidence.
- Reservations of flights and hotels.
- There will be further background checks, which result in longer visa processing.
4. Important considerations before traveling
- India may conduct additional security checks for RTD holders.
- Do not buy flights until you get your visa.
- Place all supporting documents in your possession when traveling because the immigration officials might demand them.
Conclusion
You can travel to India with a Refugee Travel Document only if a visa has been approved by an Indian Embassy or Consulate in advance. On eVisa applications, RTDs are not accepted, and a decision to be given to the applicant is based on a personal examination by the Indian immigration authorities. Travel to India with a proper visa and supporting documents can be done, but proper preparation and advanced approval are needed.
