Entering India
To enter India, delegates will need the following documents:
- International travelers need a valid visa to enter India. The conference chair recommends applying for either a business or a tourist visa.
- Delegates must apply for a visa through the Indian government’s authorized portal: www.indianvisaonline.gov.in
- Please click here to access the instructions on how to file an online visa form.
- Delegates who already possess a valid visa to enter India (business/tourist) are not required to re-apply.
- Delegates applying for a visa may request a visa invitation letter (if required at the time of visa application) by contacting the Event Team.
- All delegates are recommended to apply for their visa themselves by visiting the portal mentioned above, instead of through a third-party service in order to avoid any errors of information.
- Please ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months prior to your date of arrival in India.
Important: If you are not eligible for an e-Visa, you will need to apply for a traditional visa via an Indian embassy or consulate.
Note: Make sure to check the latest visa requirements for your specific nationality before traveling.
Currency
The currency used in New Delhi is INR (Indian Rupee). It is recommended to carry some cash in Indian Rupees for small purchases, but credit/debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments.
Taxes
- Goods and Services Tax (GST): A 18% GST applies to most goods and services in India.
- Hotel Accommodations Tax: Depending on the hotel, a 12% GST on accommodation charges may apply.
Electricity/Voltage
Voltage: India operates on 230V, with a frequency of 50Hz.
Plug Type: The plug type used in India is typically Type C, D, or M.
Tip: Make sure to bring a Type-C or Type-D adapter for your devices.
Smoking
Smoking is prohibited in indoor public places such as restaurants, bars, hotels, and public transport.
Smoking is allowed only in designated smoking areas or outdoor spaces.
Vaping or the use of e-cigarettes, vape pens, and e-hookahs is also prohibited in many indoor public places.
Age regulations
- Legal car rental age: 25 (some rental agencies may allow rentals at 21 with a surcharge).
- Legal driving age: 18.
- Legal drinking age: The legal drinking age in New Delhi is 25 (varies by state in India).
- Legal age to purchase cigarettes and tobacco: 18.
- A valid photo ID is required for purchasing alcohol or tobacco.
Time zones
New Delhi operates on Indian Standard Time (IST), which is 5 hours and 30 minutes ahead of GMT and 10 hours and 30 minutes ahead of New York City (EST).
Climate
In February, New Delhi experiences pleasant weather as it is part of the winter season. Expect cooler temperatures, with averages ranging from 15°C (59°F) in the mornings and evenings to 25°C (77°F) during the day.
Rain: February is generally dry, with very little rainfall.
Packing Tip: Bring a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings.
Dress Code
The dress code for IPBA India 2026 is business casual.
Alcohol
- The legal drinking age in New Delhi is 25.
- Open containers of alcohol cannot be taken outside drinking establishments.
- Drinking alcohol while in a vehicle is illegal for both drivers and passengers. It is also illegal to transport alcohol with a broken seal.
Emergency services
- Police/Fire Emergency: 112 or 100
- Ambulance: 102
- Police/Fire Non-Emergency: 011-2333-3030
- City Services Non-Emergency: 311
