How Much is an Indian Tourist Visa from the UK? A Detailed Guide for UK Citizens
India, with its rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and diverse history, is a top travel destination for people from all over the world, including the UK. As a UK citizen planning to visit India for tourism, one of the key questions you'll need to answer is: How much is an Indian tourist visa from the UK? The cost of an Indian tourist visa can vary depending on several factors, including the type of visa you apply for, the duration of your stay, and the processing time. This comprehensive guide will break down the different visa types, their costs, and additional factors that might affect your application.
Types of Indian Tourist Visas for UK Citizens
Before diving into the cost, it's essential to understand the different types of Indian tourist visas available to UK citizens. The visa type you choose will determine the cost as well as the length of stay, the number of entries, and whether it's an electronic visa or a regular visa.
1. India Tourist e-Visa (e-Tourist Visa)
The Indian tourist e-Visa is a popular option for UK citizens planning a short trip to India. This visa allows travelers to apply online and receive approval electronically, which makes it a convenient and quick option. It is available for a stay of up to 60 days and allows two entries into India.
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Cost: The cost of an India tourist e-Visa for UK citizens generally ranges between £10 and £50 (approximately $13 - $65 USD), depending on the processing time you choose (standard or expedited). The e-Visa cost is also influenced by the purpose of travel (tourism in this case) and the number of entries.
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Eligibility: The e-Visa is available to UK citizens traveling for tourism purposes and is suitable for those staying in India for a short period. It can only be applied for online through the official Indian e-Visa portal.
2. 6-Month Tourist Visa
The 6-month tourist visa is a commonly issued visa for UK citizens, and it allows you to stay in India for up to six months. It can be issued as a single-entry or multiple-entry visa.
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Cost: The 6-month tourist visa for UK citizens typically costs between £80 and £90 (approximately $100 - $115 USD). The exact fee may depend on additional factors such as consular processing fees or expedited services if you opt for faster processing.
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Eligibility: The 6-month tourist visa is ideal for UK citizens who wish to stay in India for an extended period. It is also the most commonly applied for visa by travelers coming to India for tourism purposes.
3. 1-Year Tourist Visa
The 1-year tourist visa is a good option for UK travelers who plan to visit India multiple times within a year. It allows multiple entries into India during its one-year validity, with each stay limited to 90 days.
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Cost: The 1-year tourist visa typically costs between £120 and £150 (approximately $150 - $180 USD). The cost can vary depending on your application type (single entry or multiple entry) and the processing time.
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Eligibility: This visa is designed for UK citizens who plan to travel to India for tourism on a frequent basis or over an extended period. You can use this visa for multiple visits to India within one year, with each visit lasting up to 90 days.
4. 5-Year Tourist Visa
The 5-year tourist visa is designed for frequent travelers who visit India regularly. This visa allows multiple entries into India over a period of five years, with each stay limited to 90 days.
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Cost: The cost of the 5-year tourist visa for UK citizens generally ranges from £150 to £180 (approximately $180 - $220 USD), depending on the consular fees and other processing charges.
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Eligibility: UK citizens who frequently visit India for tourism or who have long-term travel plans in India may find the 5-year visa an ideal option. It offers the flexibility of multiple visits over five years without needing to apply for a new visa every time.
5. Tourist Visa on Arrival
India also offers a Tourist Visa on Arrival (TVoA), which allows UK citizens to obtain a visa upon arrival at select airports in India. This visa is typically issued for 30 days and allows single entry only.
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Cost: The Tourist Visa on Arrival typically costs around £10 to £20 (approximately $13 - $26 USD), depending on the airport and processing fees.
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Eligibility: The TVoA is only available to citizens of certain countries, including the UK. It is suitable for travelers who plan to visit India for short trips and are arriving at specific airports.
Factors That Influence the Cost of an Indian Tourist Visa from the UK
While the fees mentioned above give a general idea of the costs, several factors can influence how much you pay for your Indian tourist visa. Here are the key factors that affect the cost:
1. Visa Type
The type of visa you apply for has the most significant impact on the cost. e-Visas are generally the cheapest, while multiple-entry or longer-duration visas (like the 1-year or 5-year visa) tend to cost more.
2. Processing Time
If you opt for expedited processing, which speeds up the visa approval process, you'll typically pay more. Standard processing times for regular tourist visas are usually around 3 to 7 business days, while expedited processing can take as little as 1 to 2 business days.
3. Application Service Fees
If you choose to apply through a third-party visa agency or visa application center, service fees may apply in addition to the visa fee. These fees are for handling your application and assisting with the paperwork.
4. Additional Charges
Additional charges may be levied depending on specific requirements. For example, biometric data collection at the visa center, courier services for visa delivery, or applying for a visa with faster processing times can add to the overall cost.
How to Pay for Your Indian Tourist Visa from the UK
Visa fees for an Indian tourist visa can generally be paid through the following methods:
- Online Payment: Most visa application websites, including the official Indian government visa portal, accept online payments via credit or debit card for e-Visa applications.
- Visa Application Centers: If applying for a regular tourist visa, payment can be made at Indian Visa Application Centers through cash, credit card, or demand drafts.
- Service Fees: If using a third-party agency, service fees are often paid in advance or at the time of submission.
Conclusion
The cost of an Indian tourist visa from the UK varies depending on the type of visa, duration of stay, and the processing time you choose. For UK citizens, the India tourist e-Visa is the most affordable and convenient option for short stays, with fees ranging from £10 to £50. For those planning longer visits or multiple entries, the 6-month, 1-year, or 5-year tourist visas are available, with costs ranging from £80 to £180.
It’s essential to consider the type of visa that best fits your travel needs and to factor in any additional fees or processing options when budgeting for your visa application. Always check the latest fees and processing times on the official Indian government visa website or consult your local visa application center for the most accurate information. By doing so, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free visa application experience.
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