Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh, welcomes international guests with its rich heritage, tranquil lakes, and vibrant culture. Known for its warm hospitality and architectural charm, the city offers a memorable backdrop for global gatherings. Whether you’re here for learning, networking, or exploration, Bhopal promises an experience that’s both inspiring and inviting.
All foreign nationals attending an event in Bhopal must hold a valid passport and an Indian visa. India offers both regular (paper) visas and e-Visas for eligible countries.
Visa Free Regime
Exemption from the requirement of an Indian visa or Visa Free Entry into India is available for the Citizens of Nepal, Bhutan and Maldives.
Citizens of Nepal and Bhutan visiting India from Nepal or Bhutan by land or air are exempted from the requirement of Passport and an Indian visa. However, they are required to hold any such Government approved document authenticating their Nationality which shall bear their Photograph along with information viz., Given Name, Last Name, Date of Birth, Nationality, Issuing Authority, Period of Validity etc.,
Visa free entry can be availed by Maldivians whose purpose of visit to India is exclusively for Business/Medical treatment/Tourism and the stay in India does not exceed a period of 90 days.
Visa-on-Arrival (VoA) facility
Visa-on-Arrival is available only for nationals of Japan, South Korea, and select UAE citizens who have previously held an Indian visa.
Foreigners can avail the facility of Visa-on-Arrival at the International Airports in Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Mumbai.
For Other Nationals
India offers both regular (paper) visas and e-Visas for eligible countries.
e-Visa (Recommended for Most Attendees)
The following are the eligibility conditions for availing e-Visa services:
- Nationals of countries listed on the e-Visa website https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa are eligible to apply for e-Visa Services.
- Foreigners whose sole objective for visiting India is: Attending a conference/seminar/workshop is eligible for e-Visa.
- Passport should have at least six months validity at the time of making application for grant of e-Visa and a re-entry permit, if that is required under the law of the country of nationality of the applicant.
- The passport should have at least two blank pages for stamping by the Immigration Officer.
- The foreigner should have a return ticket or onward journey ticket, with sufficient money to spend during his/her stay in India.
- Check your country specific guidelines about e-Visa, here at the Bureau of Immigration website: https://boi.gov.in/boi/public/landing.
Regular/Paper Visa
You can apply through the nearest Indian Embassy or Consulate. This option is recommended for attendees from countries not eligible for e-Visa.
Invitation Letter
International attendees requiring a visa to attend WordCamp Bhopal 2025 can request an official invitation letter from the organizing team to support their visa application. For assistance with your invitation letter, you can reach out to the organizing team before November 15, 2025 using the contact page.
e-Arrival card
Starting October 1, 2025, all foreign travelers to India are required to complete a digital e-Arrival Card before their journey. This online form replaces the traditional paper disembarkation card and must be submitted between 72 and 24 hours prior to arrival. You can submit this form on the Bureau of Immigration website at this page. It captures essential details like passport number, nationality, travel purpose, and address in India, streamlining immigration clearance and reducing wait times at airports. Indian citizens and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders are exempt from this requirement.
Fast Track Immigration
India has recently upgraded its immigration experience with the Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP), now available at 13 major airports including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata. While currently limited to Indian citizens and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders, the system is expanding to offer quicker clearance and biometric-based e-Gates for eligible travelers.
Arrival in Bhopal
Bhopal is served by Raja Bhoj Airport (BHO). The airport is well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Ahmedabad and Pune. Daily flights are operated by airlines such as IndiGo and Air India. Ensure your visa allows entry through this airport, if using an e-Visa.
For more information, you can check our detailed Bhopal arrival guide. You can also browse curated accommodation options to find the perfect place to stay during your visit.
