How Much is a Tourist Visa to India from the UK? A Complete Guide
India, with its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and historical landmarks, continues to be one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. For UK residents planning a trip to India, obtaining a tourist visa is a necessary step before embarking on their journey. Understanding the cost of a tourist visa to India from the UK is essential for budgeting and ensuring the application process goes smoothly. This guide will provide you with all the details you need to know about the cost, types, and how to apply for a tourist visa to India from the UK.
Types of Tourist Visas for India from the UK
Before we dive into the cost of a tourist visa to India from the UK, it is important to understand the different types of visas available. Depending on the purpose and duration of your trip, you may choose from the following options:
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Standard Tourist Visa (STV): This is the most common visa type for UK citizens traveling to India for tourism. It is typically valid for 6 months with a single entry or multiple entries depending on the applicant’s needs.
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e-Tourist Visa (eTV): For UK citizens, the e-Tourist Visa is an online visa option that allows for short-term visits to India for tourism. This visa is available for stays of up to 60 days and permits two entries within the visa’s validity period.
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Tourist Visa for Longer Stays: If you're planning a stay longer than 6 months, you might need to apply for a different visa type or consider applying for a Tourist Visa with a longer validity.
Cost of a Tourist Visa to India from the UK
The cost of a tourist visa to India from the UK varies depending on several factors, including the type of visa you apply for, the processing time, and whether you choose a standard or expedited service. Below is a breakdown of the general visa fees for both the Standard Tourist Visa and e-Tourist Visa for UK citizens.
1. India e-Tourist Visa (eTV) Cost for UK Citizens
The India e-Tourist Visa (eTV) is a popular choice for short visits. The cost of an e-Tourist Visa for UK citizens is generally lower compared to the standard tourist visa. Here are the typical fees:
- e-Tourist Visa (30 days): Approximately £10 to £30.
- e-Tourist Visa (60 days): Approximately £20 to £50.
- e-Tourist Visa for UK Citizens (Multiple Entries): If you require a multiple-entry e-Tourist Visa, the cost can range from £30 to £75, depending on the urgency and processing time.
These fees may vary depending on the service provider and any additional charges associated with the processing speed (e.g., urgent processing).
2. India Standard Tourist Visa (STV) Cost for UK Citizens
For those planning a longer stay or who prefer the traditional route, the India Standard Tourist Visa is the ideal option. The cost of the standard tourist visa depends on the duration of the visa and the number of entries:
- 6-Month Tourist Visa (Single Entry): The standard cost is typically around £90 to £120.
- 6-Month Tourist Visa (Multiple Entries): The cost for a multiple-entry visa is generally around £110 to £150.
- 1-Year Tourist Visa (Multiple Entries): If you want a longer duration, a 1-year tourist visa may cost approximately £150 to £200.
Keep in mind that the final fee may also include service charges or consular fees when applying through the Indian Embassy or visa agencies.
3. Tourist Visa Processing Time and Fees
The processing time for a Standard Tourist Visa typically takes around 5 to 7 business days for normal processing, though urgent processing is available for an additional fee.
Here are the approximate costs based on processing speed:
- Standard Processing: Costs around £90 to £200, depending on visa type and number of entries.
- Express Processing (1 to 3 business days): Costs about £120 to £250 for faster processing.
Additional Costs Associated with an India Tourist Visa
In addition to the base visa fees, there may be other associated costs when applying for a tourist visa to India from the UK:
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Service Charges for Visa Agencies: If you choose to apply through a third-party visa agency, service fees may be added to the total cost. These fees can range from £30 to £50 or more.
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Consular Fees: When applying directly through the Indian Embassy, consular fees might apply, which could add an extra £10 to £20 to the total cost.
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Visa Application Center Fees: If you use a visa application center (VAC) in the UK, you may need to pay additional VAC service fees.
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Photograph and Document Fees: You will need to submit a recent passport-sized photograph, and if you don’t already have one, getting the photo taken will cost approximately £5 to £10.
How to Pay for Your India Tourist Visa from the UK
Payments for both e-Tourist Visas and Standard Tourist Visas can be made online during the application process. You can use credit cards, debit cards, or other online payment methods like PayPal, depending on the application portal you use. For traditional visa applications, payments can also be made at the visa application center or embassy via various payment methods, including bank drafts, cheques, or credit cards.
Validity of the India Tourist Visa
The India Tourist Visa can vary in terms of its validity:
- e-Tourist Visa: This visa is valid for 30 days or 60 days from the date of arrival in India. You can stay up to 60 days and enter India twice within the visa's validity period.
- Standard Tourist Visa: A 6-month visa is the most common, and you can choose between single entry or multiple entries. You can enter and leave India as many times as allowed within the validity period, depending on your visa type.
How to Apply for an India Tourist Visa from the UK
The application process for a tourist visa to India from the UK depends on the type of visa you choose.
For the India e-Tourist Visa:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to the official Indian e-Visa website to start your application.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill out the necessary details about yourself, your travel plans, and your passport.
- Upload Required Documents: Upload a scanned copy of your passport’s bio-data page and a recent photograph.
- Make Payment: Pay the visa fee using a credit or debit card.
- Wait for Approval: Processing times for e-Visas are typically 3 to 5 business days.
- Receive Your Visa: Once approved, you will receive your e-Tourist Visa via email, which you must present upon arrival in India.
For the Standard Tourist Visa:
- Visit the Indian Embassy or Visa Application Center: You can apply in person or through a third-party agency.
- Complete the Visa Application Form: Fill out the application form and provide the necessary documents.
- Submit Documents and Payment: Provide your passport, photograph, and payment as required.
- Wait for Processing: Processing times typically take 5 to 7 business days for a standard visa.
Conclusion
The cost of a tourist visa to India from the UK depends on the type of visa you apply for and the duration of your stay. For short-term visits, the India e-Tourist Visa is a cost-effective option, whereas longer stays or multiple entries may require the Standard Tourist Visa. Be sure to consider any additional fees for urgent processing or third-party services when budgeting for your trip. Always check the latest information on fees and processing times before applying, as costs can fluctuate based on different factors. By applying for your visa well in advance and understanding all the associated costs, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to India.
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