India Travel Visa for UK Citizens: Complete Guide

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India is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, offering a rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and unique experiences. For UK citizens planning a trip to India, obtaining the correct travel visa is essential. This guide provides all the necessary information about applying for an India travel visa from the UK, including the different visa types, costs, application process, and requirements.

Types of India Travel Visas for UK Citizens

India offers several types of travel visas for UK citizens depending on the nature and purpose of the trip. Below are the most common options for UK passport holders:

1. India Tourist Visa (Tourist Visa)

The India Tourist Visa is the most common visa type for those visiting India for sightseeing, leisure, visiting friends or family, or attending a short-term course. It can be issued as a single-entry, multiple-entry, or transit visa.

  • Duration: The tourist visa can be granted for a period of 6 months to 1 year.
  • Number of Entries: The visa can be single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry, depending on the applicant's needs.
  • Processing Time: Typically takes 7-10 business days to process. Expedited processing options may be available for faster processing.
  • Cost: The cost of the India Tourist Visa varies based on the visa’s validity. Expect to pay between £80 and £150 for the visa, depending on whether it's for a short-term visit (6 months) or a longer period (1 year or multiple-entry).

2. India Tourist e-Visa (e-Tourist Visa)

The India e-Tourist Visa is an electronic visa, which allows UK citizens to apply online and receive approval before their trip. It is suitable for travelers who plan to stay for a short period and for those who want to avoid visiting an embassy or consulate.

  • Duration: The e-Tourist Visa is valid for 60 days from the date of arrival in India.
  • Number of Entries: The e-Tourist Visa allows for two entries during its validity period.
  • Eligibility: The e-Visa is available for those traveling for tourism purposes such as sightseeing, meeting friends or family, and short-term courses.
  • Cost: The cost of the e-Visa typically ranges from £10 to £50, depending on the processing speed and urgency.

3. 1-Year Tourist Visa

For UK citizens who plan to visit India multiple times over the course of a year, the 1-year tourist visa provides flexibility. This type of visa is designed for travelers who wish to stay for extended periods within the country.

  • Duration: Valid for 12 months, allowing stays of up to 90 days per visit.
  • Number of Entries: This visa can be issued with multiple entries, which is ideal for frequent travelers.
  • Cost: The 1-year tourist visa generally costs between £120 and £150.

4. 5-Year Tourist Visa

The 5-year tourist visa is perfect for UK citizens who plan to visit India regularly for tourism purposes over an extended period. It allows for multiple entries during its validity.

  • Duration: Valid for 5 years, allowing stays of up to 90 days per visit.
  • Number of Entries: This visa allows multiple entries.
  • Cost: The cost for the 5-year tourist visa usually falls between £150 and £180.

Requirements for Applying for an India Travel Visa from the UK

To apply for an India travel visa from the UK, you will need to meet certain requirements and submit supporting documents. These requirements can vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for, but here are the most common documents needed:

  1. Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of your intended arrival in India. It should also have at least two blank pages for visa stamps.

  2. Visa Application Form: You will need to fill out the visa application form online for the e-Tourist Visa or at the Indian Visa Application Center (IVAC) for regular travel visas.

  3. Photographs: A recent passport-sized photograph (as per the specifications set by the Indian authorities) will be required.

  4. Proof of Travel: You may need to submit a flight itinerary showing your entry and exit from India, as well as hotel bookings or accommodation details for your stay.

  5. Visa Fee Payment: The visa fee must be paid as per the instructions provided during the application process. For the e-Tourist Visa, payment is done online, while for regular visas, you can pay through various channels at the application center.

  6. Additional Documents: Depending on the visa type and consulate requirements, you may be asked to provide additional documents such as bank statements to prove your financial stability or a cover letter detailing the purpose of your trip.

How to Apply for an India Travel Visa from the UK

Applying for the India Tourist e-Visa:

  1. Visit the Indian e-Visa Website: Go to the official Indian government e-Visa website to begin the application process.
  2. Fill Out the Online Application: Complete the application form with your personal information, travel details, and passport information.
  3. Upload Documents: You will need to upload a recent passport-sized photograph and a scanned copy of the bio-data page of your passport.
  4. Pay the Visa Fee: Pay the e-Visa fee using your debit/credit card or PayPal.
  5. Wait for Approval: After your e-Visa is processed (usually within 3-5 business days), you will receive the visa approval via email. Print a copy of the e-Visa and carry it with you when traveling to India.

Applying for a Regular Tourist Visa (6-Month, 1-Year, or 5-Year):

  1. Visit the Indian Visa Application Center (IVAC): You can apply online for a regular tourist visa and then visit an IVAC center to submit your documents, or you can apply directly at the consulate.
  2. Complete the Visa Application Form: Fill out the form for the specific visa type (6-month, 1-year, or 5-year).
  3. Provide Supporting Documents: Submit the necessary documents, including your passport, photographs, and travel-related information.
  4. Biometric Data (if required): Some applications require biometric data, so make sure to attend any biometric appointments if instructed.
  5. Wait for Processing: After submission, your visa application will be processed, usually within 7-10 business days.

Processing Time for India Travel Visas

  • India Tourist e-Visa: Typically takes around 3 to 5 business days to process, but expedited processing may be available.
  • Regular Tourist Visas (6-Month, 1-Year, 5-Year): These visas usually take between 7 to 10 business days for standard processing. Expedited services are available for faster processing.

Cost of India Travel Visa for UK Citizens

The cost of an India travel visa for UK citizens depends on the type of visa and the processing time selected. Below is a general breakdown of the costs:

  • e-Tourist Visa (60 days): Typically ranges from £10 to £50 (approximately $13 - $65 USD).
  • 6-Month Tourist Visa: The fee generally ranges from £80 to £90 (approximately $100 - $115 USD).
  • 1-Year Tourist Visa: Costs between £120 and £150 (approximately $150 - $180 USD).
  • 5-Year Tourist Visa: Typically costs between £150 and £180 (approximately $180 - $220 USD).

Please note that fees may vary depending on the processing time and the type of visa.

Conclusion

Whether you’re planning a short holiday to India or looking to explore the country over an extended period, getting an India travel visa from the UK is a straightforward process. The e-Tourist Visa offers a quick and easy online application process, while the regular tourist visa options provide more flexibility for longer stays or frequent visits.

Be sure to apply well in advance of your planned travel date to allow for ample processing time and to ensure a smooth visa application process. With the right visa in hand, you can experience all that India has to offer—from its stunning landscapes to its rich history and culture.

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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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