Your key to India

PAN (Permanent Account Number) is India’s unique ten-character tax identifier. The Income Tax Department issues it for tax procedures and certain financial transactions.

Foreign nationals can also obtain a PAN. A PAN alone does not grant permission to work or live in India, or to open any bank account. Separate requirements apply.

Form C reports that a foreign guest is staying at a particular address. The current rules call it Form III, while the official portal still uses the name Form C.

The host files it. This can be a hotel, guesthouse or anyone providing accommodation, including a landlord. Arrival and departure must each be reported within 24 hours. Check with the property owner before moving in to find out how they will file it.

A Rent Agreement or Lease Agreement sets out the terms for using a flat, house, office or other premises. It identifies the parties, address, rental term, rent, deposit and refund terms.

Before signing, check utility payments, repairs, notice, early termination and each party’s responsibilities. Registration and stamp duty requirements depend on the term, conditions and state rules. Notarisation and registration with the authorities are separate procedures.

Permitted activities include holidays, sightseeing, travel within India and private visits to friends or relatives. Short yoga programmes and informal courses of up to six months may be permitted if they do not lead to a diploma or qualification and fit within your visa’s conditions. Unpaid volunteering for up to one month may also be permitted, with no remuneration in any form.

A tourist visa does not cover employment, paid work, business as the purpose of the visit or formal study leading to a diploma or qualification.

If planned medical treatment is the main reason for your visit, check in advance whether you need a medical visa.

Permitted activities include negotiations, meetings with partners or suppliers and attending trade exhibitions. You can research the market, prepare to set up a business and discuss purchases or supplies.

Employment in India requires checking the Employment Visa rules. A business visa does not cover carrying out contract work for which an employment or other visa category is required.

Some conferences and other specific purposes have separate subcategories. Check the application rules and ask the organiser which category applies.

You can travel for treatment arranged with an Indian clinic, including tests and procedures that are part of that treatment. The relevant subcategory also covers treatment under India’s AYUSH systems.

A medical visa does not cover employment, business, study or tourism as the main purpose of entry. Someone travelling only to accompany a patient can apply under the separate e-Medical Attendant category.

An e-Medical Visa requires a letter from an Indian clinic giving the confirmed or expected date of treatment or admission.