India Tourist Visa Cost for UK Citizens: A Comprehensive Guide

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India, with its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and historical significance, remains one of the most popular destinations for travelers worldwide. If you're a UK citizen planning to visit India, one of the essential requirements is applying for a tourist visa. The cost of an India tourist visa can vary based on several factors, such as the type of visa, duration, and your specific travel needs. This article will provide an in-depth guide to the India tourist visa cost for UK citizens, as well as other relevant details to help you navigate the visa process smoothly.

Types of India Tourist Visas for UK Citizens

India offers several types of tourist visas for UK citizens, each with varying costs based on the duration of stay and the number of entries allowed. Below, we break down the different visa options available to UK passport holders:

1. 6-Month Tourist Visa

The most common visa for UK citizens is the 6-month tourist visa. This visa allows visitors to stay in India for up to six months. It is typically issued with single-entry or multiple-entry options, depending on the traveler's plans.

  • Cost: The 6-month India tourist visa for UK citizens typically costs £80 - £90 (approximately $100 USD). The exact price can vary depending on factors such as consulate fees and processing time.

2. 1-Year Tourist Visa

A 1-year tourist visa is an excellent option for travelers who plan on visiting India multiple times or staying for an extended period. This visa generally allows for multiple entries during the one-year period, with each stay limited to 90 days.

  • Cost: The 1-year tourist visa for UK citizens costs around £120 - £150 (approximately $150 USD). The higher cost is due to the extended validity period and multiple-entry allowance.

3. 5-Year Tourist Visa

For UK citizens who frequently visit India, a 5-year tourist visa offers the convenience of multiple entries over a five-year period. While the visa holder can visit multiple times, each stay is still limited to a maximum of 90 days.

  • Cost: The 5-year tourist visa is priced at approximately £150 - £180 (approximately $180 USD). The extended validity period and multiple entries justify the higher cost.

4. India Tourist e-Visa

The India Tourist e-Visa is an electronic visa available for short stays, typically up to 60 days. This visa is ideal for UK citizens who want a hassle-free application process and a quick turnaround time. The e-Visa allows two entries into India within the validity period.

  • Cost: The cost of the India Tourist e-Visa for UK citizens generally ranges from £10 to £50 (approximately $13 to $65 USD). The price varies depending on the processing speed you choose, such as standard processing or urgent processing.

5. Tourist Visa on Arrival

India offers a Tourist Visa on Arrival (TVoA) to citizens of certain countries, including the UK. This visa is usually valid for 30 days and is meant for short-term tourists. The TVoA can only be obtained at certain airports in India and is available to travelers who meet specific criteria.

  • Cost: The Tourist Visa on Arrival is typically priced at around £10 - £20 (approximately $13 - $26 USD). However, note that the TVoA is only available at select entry points and comes with restrictions on the length of stay.

Factors Affecting the India Tourist Visa Cost for UK Citizens

Several factors influence the cost of an India Tourist Visa for UK passport holders. Understanding these factors can help you anticipate the total cost and make an informed decision.

1. Visa Type

The type of visa you choose plays a significant role in determining the overall cost. Longer-duration visas, such as the 1-year or 5-year tourist visa, are generally more expensive than shorter options like the 6-month visa or e-Visa.

2. Number of Entries

Visas that allow for multiple entries tend to cost more than single-entry visas. If you plan on entering and leaving India multiple times during your trip, opting for a multiple-entry visa will be more convenient, albeit at a higher cost.

3. Processing Time

The India Tourist e-Visa offers different processing speeds that can affect the cost. If you need your visa urgently, you can opt for the urgent processing option, which will incur a higher fee compared to the standard processing option.

4. Embassy or Visa Application Center Fees

If you choose to apply for a visa through the Indian embassy or a visa application center, additional fees may apply. These fees are often in the form of service charges or handling fees, and they can vary depending on the location where you submit your application.

5. Nationality

Although this article specifically covers UK citizens, it's important to note that visa fees can vary slightly depending on the applicant's nationality. For example, some countries have different agreements with India, resulting in slightly lower or higher visa fees.

How to Pay for an India Tourist Visa from the UK

When applying for an India Tourist Visa from the UK, the payment methods generally depend on the type of visa and the application process you choose:

  • India Tourist e-Visa: The e-Visa application process is done online, and payments are made via credit card or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, or American Express).
  • Regular Tourist Visa: If applying through an embassy or visa application center, you may need to pay by bank transfer, credit card, debit card, or cash (depending on the embassy or consulate's specific payment policies).

It's crucial to check the official website of the Indian High Commission or the visa application center for the latest information on payment methods and fees.

How to Apply for an India Tourist Visa from the UK

Here are the typical steps for applying for an India Tourist Visa from the UK:

  1. Determine the Type of Visa: Choose the visa that best suits your travel plans. If you're only visiting for a short stay, the e-Visa might be the most convenient option. If you're staying longer, a 6-month, 1-year, or 5-year tourist visa might be more appropriate.

  2. Complete the Application Form: For the e-Visa, you can apply online by filling out the India e-Visa application form. For regular visas, you will need to submit the application at the Indian Visa Application Centre (IVAC) or the Indian High Commission in London.

  3. Gather Supporting Documents: You will need to provide various documents, such as your passport (valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in India), passport-sized photographs, and any additional documents requested by the embassy or consulate.

  4. Submit Your Application: After completing the application form and gathering the necessary documents, submit them to the relevant authority. For the e-Visa, this is done online, while regular visas require submission at the embassy or visa center.

  5. Pay the Visa Fee: Pay the required India tourist visa fee as per the visa type. You can make payments online for the e-Visa or pay in person at the visa center for regular visas.

  6. Wait for Processing: Processing times for India tourist visas typically range from 3 to 7 business days. For the e-Visa, approval is usually granted within 3 to 5 business days.

  7. Receive Your Visa: If your visa is approved, you will receive an e-Visa via email or a stamped visa in your passport.

Conclusion

The cost of an India tourist visa for UK citizens depends on several factors, including the type of visa, processing time, and the number of entries allowed. Whether you are applying for a 6-month tourist visa, a 1-year visa, a 5-year visa, or the convenient e-Visa, understanding the costs and the process can make your visa application smoother. Always check the latest information on visa fees and procedures on the official websites to ensure you’re fully prepared for your journey to India.

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