India has published its official eVisa eligibility list for 2026, covering 147 countries, with approximately 35 African nations included. However, three West African countries—Nigeria, Burkina Faso, and Guinea-Bissau—are notably absent, meaning their citizens cannot use the online application route to visit India.
Three West African Nations Missing from India's eVisa List
According to information published on India's immigration portal, the eVisa list includes around 35 African countries, but Nigeria, Burkina Faso, and Guinea-Bissau were identified as the three West African countries excluded. Citizens of these nations must instead go through traditional visa application channels, which typically involve visiting an Indian embassy or consulate in person, rather than applying online.
The omission is particularly significant for Nigeria, which has one of the largest populations on the continent and a sizable diaspora with strong trade, academic, and cultural ties to India.
Other Traveler Categories Excluded from India's eVisa
Beyond country restrictions, India's eVisa system also excludes certain categories of travelers regardless of their nationality. Holders of diplomatic or official passports, as well as those traveling on a laissez-passer document, are not eligible. People who are endorsed on a parent's or spouse's passport are equally barred, as the system requires each traveler to hold their own separate passport. Additionally, people carrying international travel documents other than a standard passport fall outside the eligibility criteria.
India Expands eVisa Entry Points
In a related development, the Indian government announced 11 new entry points for e-Visa holders in a statement published on August 10, 2026. The expansion covers two airports and nine land border crossings, including routes to Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Pakistan.
The full list of eligible countries, along with the complete terms and conditions of the eVisa programme, is available on India's official visa portal. This development follows a separate report by Legit.ng about a Nigerian lady who was lured by an Indian Tinder lover and narrated her ordeal after reportedly escaping death.
