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Summary:
- Raxaul is now a valid land entry point for Indian e-Visa holders.
- The e-Visa previously worked mainly at airports and seaports.
- This helps travelers doing Nepal and India in the same itinerary.
- The update is Raxaul-specific, not automatic for every land crossing.
- Border logistics still matter, so bring printed documents.
1) The update in one sentence: Raxaul now accepts the Indian e-Visa
The Indian e-Visa is a digital visa system that lets eligible travelers apply online and receive an electronic approval, often called an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization).
For years, the limitation was clear: e-Visas were mainly accepted at international airports and a small number of seaports. That was fine for people flying into Delhi or Mumbai, but not for travelers moving between Nepal and India by bus or train.
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Now, India has added Raxaul as an official land entry point for travelers entering with an approved e-Visa. It is a specific change, but it removes a big restriction for a very common crossing.
2) Why this matters for Nepal to India overland travel
If you have ever mapped out a South Asia itinerary, you know how often visa rules decide the route. Raxaul is frequently used by travelers coming from Nepal and heading into northern India, especially if they want to continue toward Bihar or beyond.
Before this update, e-Visa holders often had to do one of three things: fly into India, apply for another visa, or rebuild the itinerary around “approved entry points.” That is not impossible, but it is a hassle.
With Raxaul on the list, travelers can keep an overland plan while using the e-Visa they already prefer. That said, a rule change does not mean a fast border crossing. It simply means the entry method is now officially accepted at that point.
3) Where the India e-Visa is accepted (clear overview)
To avoid confusion, it helps to separate entry types. The e-Visa is widely accepted at airports, accepted at a few seaports, and now accepted at one land border crossing listed in this update.
| Entry type | e-Visa accepted at | What it means |
| Airports | 32 international airports | The most common way to enter India with an e-Visa |
| Seaports | 6 seaports | Mostly relevant for cruise and maritime arrivals |
| Land border | Raxaul | New option for Nepal to India overland entry |
It is worth repeating: this update confirms Raxaul. It does not automatically confirm other Nepal India border points. If your route uses another crossing, check the official entry list before you travel.
4) Crossing at Raxaul with an e-Visa: what to do (and what not to rely on)
Border crossings are rarely complicated because of one big thing. They are usually stressful because of several small things. A little preparation makes a big difference.
First, do not rely only on your phone. Bring a printed copy of your ETA approval and keep your passport ready. Paper still solves a lot of problems at borders.
What to carry (simple checklist)
- A printed copy of your e-Visa approval (ETA)
- Your passport with the required validity and blank pages
- A digital backup saved offline (PDF)
- A basic itinerary note (where you are going next)
- Some cash for transport and essentials after crossing
Timing matters too. If you can, aim for early hours. The middle of the day can be crowded and slow, especially in busy border towns.
Finally, plan the first ride after the border. Transport can be chaotic, and prices can vary. Agree on the price before you step in, and keep small bills ready. The goal is not to overthink it, just to avoid unnecessary friction.
5) Who benefits most (and who should double-check)
This update helps anyone who wants to travel between Nepal and India without flights. It is especially useful for backpackers, long term travelers, and people building multi-country routes.
You benefit most if you are doing Nepal and India in one continuous trip, and you want to keep your route overland. It also helps travelers who prefer the simplicity of the e-Visa system rather than dealing with consulates.
However, a few situations still require caution. You may still need another visa option if your nationality is not eligible for the e-Visa program, or if your trip needs conditions the e-Visa does not cover. Also, your visa category should match your purpose. Tourism, business, and medical travel are not interchangeable categories.
If you keep those basics in mind, this update is a practical win. It reduces one of the biggest planning constraints for overland Nepal India travel, and it makes the Raxaul crossing a more straightforward option for e-Visa holders.
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Adding Raxaul as an official land entry point for the Indian e-Visa does not change the nature of border travel. Lines can still be long, and logistics can still be messy. But it does change something important: you can now use the e-Visa at a key Nepal India crossing without forcing your itinerary through an airport.
If your route includes Nepal and India back to back, this is a small rule update that can save you a lot of planning headaches. Print your ETA, pack patience, and keep your overland plan intact.
