Yes. Every American needs a visa for India. There is no visa on arrival for US citizens, and the e-visa cannot be extended or converted once issued.

The options, from the official fee schedule:

  • 30-day e-tourist visa: $10 if you arrive April to June, $25 from July to March. Double entry.
  • 1-year e-tourist visa: $40, multiple entry, up to 180 days per visit for Americans.
  • 5-year e-tourist visa: $160 for US passport holders, multiple entry, same 180-day per-visit cap.
Do Americans Need a Visa for Dubai? The Straight Answer
Image via Wikimedia Commons

Apply at indianvisaonline.gov.in at least 4 days before travel; you can apply up to 120 days out. The e-visa is not valid for land border entry, only designated airports and seaports. Each child needs a separate application.

Sources: U.S. State Department, IATA Travel Centre

The thing that catches people: the 30-day visa is valid 30 days from arrival, not from approval. Book the flight first, then set the arrival date on the form to match.