India Tourist Visa Requirements from the UK: A Complete Guide

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India is a top tourist destination for travelers from all over the world, including the UK. The country's rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking landscapes make it an attractive place for tourists. If you are a UK passport holder planning to visit India for tourism, understanding the visa requirements is crucial. In this detailed guide, we will cover the essential India tourist visa requirements for UK citizens, including the types of visas available, necessary documents, costs, and how to apply.

Types of India Tourist Visas for UK Citizens

There are different types of India tourist visas that UK passport holders can apply for depending on the purpose and duration of their visit. Below are the main visa options available:

1. India Tourist e-Visa (eTV)

The India Tourist e-Visa is an electronic travel authorization that UK citizens can apply for online. This visa is designed for short-term tourism, business, or medical visits.

  • Eligibility: UK citizens who plan to visit India for tourism, medical, or business purposes.
  • Duration: Available for 30 days, 60 days, or 90 days, depending on the specific e-Visa.
  • Multiple-Entry: The e-Visa is usually issued as single-entry, although longer-term options for multiple entries are also available.
  • Application Process: The application is done entirely online, and approval is usually granted within 3-5 business days.
  • Cost: Fees for the e-Visa range from £10 to £80, depending on the visa duration and type.

2. Traditional India Tourist Visa

The traditional India tourist visa is the standard visa for UK passport holders. This visa is suitable for those who plan to stay in India for longer periods, usually 6 months or more.

  • Eligibility: Available for UK citizens visiting India for tourism purposes.
  • Duration: The visa is usually issued for 6 months, 1 year, or 5 years, depending on the application.
  • Multiple-Entry: This visa typically allows multiple entries during its validity.
  • Application Process: Requires in-person submission of documents at the Indian Embassy or Consulate, along with biometric data if necessary.
  • Cost: The traditional visa can cost between £70 to £150 depending on the type and validity period.

General India Tourist Visa Requirements for UK Citizens

Whether you are applying for an India Tourist e-Visa (eTV) or a traditional India Tourist Visa, you must meet certain eligibility criteria and provide the required documentation. Here’s a list of the essential India tourist visa requirements for UK passport holders:

1. Valid UK Passport

Your UK passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you plan to enter India. It must also have at least two blank pages for stamping.

2. Passport-Sized Photographs

You will need to provide one recent passport-sized photograph that meets the required specifications. The photograph must be taken against a white background, and your face must be clearly visible.

3. Completed Visa Application Form

You must fill out a visa application form accurately. For the e-Visa, the form is available online, while for the traditional visa, the form must be filled out at the Indian Visa Application Centre (IVAC).

4. Proof of Travel Arrangements

You will need to provide proof of your flight bookings to and from India, as well as hotel reservations or itinerary details for your stay. This is particularly important when applying for a traditional tourist visa.

5. Financial Proof

Depending on the type of visa, you may need to provide evidence of sufficient financial resources to cover your stay in India. This can include bank statements from the past 3 months showing enough funds.

6. Return or Onward Travel Ticket

For the India Tourist e-Visa, you may be required to show proof of your return or onward travel within the validity of the visa.

7. Visa Fee

The visa application fee must be paid either online (for e-Visa) or at the IVAC center (for traditional tourist visas). The fee varies depending on the type of visa, duration, and processing time.

8. Additional Documents for Specific Cases

  • If you are traveling for medical reasons, you may need to provide medical documents from the hospital or medical institution in India.
  • If you're applying for a long-term visa, you may need to provide additional documentation or justify the need for a longer stay.

Application Process for India Tourist Visa from the UK

Applying for India Tourist e-Visa (eTV)

The India Tourist e-Visa is a quick and straightforward process, making it an excellent option for those planning short stays in India. Here's how you can apply:

  1. Visit the Official e-Visa Website: Go to the official Indian Government e-Visa portal.
  2. Fill Out the Application: Complete the online form with your personal information, travel dates, and passport details.
  3. Upload Required Documents: Upload a passport-sized photo and a copy of your passport. Ensure the documents meet the required specifications.
  4. Pay the Visa Fee: Pay the applicable fee using a credit card or PayPal. The fee will depend on the visa duration and type.
  5. Submit the Application: After submitting the application, the processing time typically takes 3-5 business days. You will receive your e-Visa approval via email once approved.
  6. Print the e-Visa: Once approved, print a copy of your e-Visa approval letter. This should be presented upon arrival in India.

Applying for a Traditional India Tourist Visa

If you're applying for a traditional tourist visa, the process involves more steps and typically requires a visit to the Indian Visa Application Centre (IVAC):

  1. Complete the Application Form: Fill out the visa application form, available at the IVAC or online.
  2. Gather Required Documents: Collect the necessary documents, including passport (valid for at least 6 months), passport-sized photo, travel itinerary, and financial proof.
  3. Submit the Application: Submit the application and documents at the IVAC. You may need to provide biometric data during submission.
  4. Pay the Visa Fee: The visa fee must be paid during the submission of your application at the IVAC or via the online payment portal.
  5. Wait for Processing: The processing time typically takes 7-10 business days. You can opt for expedited processing for an additional fee.
  6. Collect Your Visa: Once processed, you will be notified to collect your India tourist visa from the IVAC or receive it by mail.

Costs for India Tourist Visa from the UK

The cost of the India tourist visa for UK passport holders varies depending on the type and duration of the visa.

India Tourist e-Visa (eTV)

  • 30-Day e-Visa: Approximately £10 - £20.
  • 60-Day e-Visa: Approximately £15 - £25.
  • 90-Day e-Visa: Approximately £25 - £40.
  • Long-Term e-Visa (5 years): Approximately £60 - £80.

Traditional India Tourist Visa

  • 6-Month Tourist Visa: Approximately £70 - £90.
  • 1-Year Tourist Visa: Approximately £90 - £120.
  • 5-Year Tourist Visa: Approximately £130 - £150.

Processing Time for India Tourist Visa from the UK

  • India Tourist e-Visa: The processing time is typically 3-5 business days, and urgent processing options may speed this up to 24-48 hours.
  • Traditional India Tourist Visa: The processing time is generally 7-10 business days. Expedited processing is available for an additional fee.

Conclusion

Obtaining an India tourist visa as a UK passport holder is a straightforward process, but it’s essential to be aware of the different visa types, requirements, and application procedures. Whether you choose the India Tourist e-Visa for a short trip or the traditional tourist visa for longer stays, ensuring that you meet the necessary requirements and apply well in advance will make your travel planning much smoother. By following this guide, you’ll be prepared for your India journey, ensuring you have the right visa for your travel needs.

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Start your journey today by applying for your visa online — quick, easy, and hassle-free! Get approved in no time and focus on what matters most: your travel adventure.

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