Indian Tourist Visa for UK Citizens: A Complete Guide

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India is a vibrant and diverse country, offering everything from historical landmarks and cultural experiences to breathtaking landscapes and vibrant festivals. For UK citizens wishing to visit India for tourism purposes, obtaining a tourist visa is an essential step in the travel process. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Indian tourist visa for UK citizens, including the types of visas available, costs, how to apply, and the requirements you must meet to ensure a smooth process.

Types of Indian Tourist Visas for UK Citizens

UK citizens have several options when it comes to applying for an Indian tourist visa, depending on their travel plans, frequency of visits, and the duration of their stay. Here are the main types of tourist visas available for UK passport holders:

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

The e-Tourist Visa (e-Visa) is one of the most popular visa options for UK citizens visiting India. This visa allows you to apply online without the need to visit an Indian consulate or embassy.

  • Duration: The e-Tourist Visa is valid for 60 days from the date of arrival in India.
  • Number of Entries: The e-Visa allows for two entries during its validity period.
  • Eligibility: The e-Visa is intended for tourism purposes, such as sightseeing, visiting friends or relatives, or attending short courses.
  • Processing Time: The e-Visa is processed quickly, usually within 3 to 5 business days, though there are options for expedited processing.
  • Cost: The cost of the e-Tourist Visa ranges from £10 to £50 (approximately $13 - $65 USD), depending on the processing speed and urgency.

2. 6-Month Tourist Visa

For UK citizens who intend to stay in India for a longer period, the 6-month tourist visa is a great option. It is ideal for those planning a longer vacation or for travelers who want to explore India in-depth.

  • Duration: Valid for 6 months from the date of issue, allowing stays of up to 180 days.
  • Number of Entries: This visa can be issued as either single-entry or multiple-entry.
  • Cost: The cost for a 6-month tourist visa is generally between £80 to £90 (approximately $100 - $115 USD).

3. 1-Year Tourist Visa

The 1-year tourist visa is a convenient choice for UK citizens who may need to visit India multiple times in the year. It offers flexibility for those planning repeat visits.

  • Duration: Valid for 12 months from the date of issue, with stays allowed up to 90 days per visit.
  • Number of Entries: This visa allows for multiple entries.
  • Cost: The fee for a 1-year tourist visa typically ranges from £120 to £150 (approximately $150 - $180 USD).

4. 5-Year Tourist Visa

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

  • Duration: The 5-year tourist visa allows stays of up to 90 days per visit, within a 5-year validity period.
  • Number of Entries: This visa permits multiple entries during its validity.
  • Cost: The cost for the 5-year tourist visa is generally between £150 to £180 (approximately $180 - $220 USD).

Cost of Indian Tourist Visa for UK Citizens

The cost of an Indian tourist visa for UK citizens depends on the type of visa, its validity, and the processing time. Below is an overview of the costs for different visa options:

  • e-Tourist Visa (60 days): £10 - £50 (approximately $13 - $65 USD)
  • 6-Month Tourist Visa: £80 - £90 (approximately $100 - $115 USD)
  • 1-Year Tourist Visa: £120 - £150 (approximately $150 - $180 USD)
  • 5-Year Tourist Visa: £150 - £180 (approximately $180 - $220 USD)

Please note that fees may vary slightly depending on the consulate or application center and whether you opt for expedited processing.

Requirements for UK Citizens Applying for an Indian Tourist Visa

UK citizens applying for an Indian tourist visa must meet specific requirements and submit necessary documents. The requirements may vary depending on the visa type, but here are the general documents needed for most applications:

Common Requirements for All Tourist Visas:

  1. Valid Passport: Your UK passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned arrival date in India, and it must have at least two blank pages for visa stamps.
  2. Completed Visa Application Form: You must fill out an application form, which can be done online or at the Indian Visa Application Center (IVAC).
  3. Photographs: A recent passport-sized photograph must be submitted according to the specifications set by the Indian authorities.
  4. Proof of Travel: Depending on the visa type, you may need to submit a flight itinerary and hotel reservations for your stay in India.
  5. Visa Fee Payment: Visa fees can typically be paid online for the e-Tourist Visa or at the application center for regular tourist visas.
  6. Additional Documents (if applicable): Depending on the consulate or application type, you may be asked to provide additional documents such as bank statements or a cover letter explaining the purpose of your trip.

Additional Requirements for Specific Visa Types:

  • e-Tourist Visa: When applying for the e-Tourist Visa, you will need to upload a recent passport-sized photograph and a scanned copy of the bio-data page of your passport.
  • Regular Tourist Visas (6-Month, 1-Year, 5-Year): These applications require submission of physical documents, such as your passport, visa application form, photographs, and travel-related documents.

Processing Times for India Tourist Visas for UK Citizens

The processing time for an Indian tourist visa depends on the type of visa and whether you opt for standard or expedited processing:

  • e-Tourist Visa: The processing time for the e-Tourist Visa is generally 3 to 5 business days, but expedited processing options are available for quicker approvals.
  • Regular Tourist Visas (6-Month, 1-Year, 5-Year): Regular tourist visas typically take between 7 to 10 business days to process. However, processing time may vary depending on the consulate, where you apply, and the type of visa.

How to Apply for an Indian Tourist Visa as a UK Citizen

Applying for the e-Tourist Visa:

  1. Visit the Indian e-Visa Website: Go to the official Indian government e-Visa website to start your application.
  2. Complete the Application: Fill out the online application with your personal, travel, and passport details.
  3. Upload Documents: You will need to upload a passport-sized photograph and a scanned copy of your passport bio-data page.
  4. Pay the Visa Fee: Pay the e-Visa fee online via debit/credit card or other available payment options.
  5. Receive Your e-Visa: After approval, you will receive the e-Visa by email. Print the document and carry it with you when traveling to India.

Applying for Regular Tourist Visas (6-Month, 1-Year, 5-Year):

  1. Submit Application: You can apply either online or at an Indian Visa Application Center (IVAC) in the UK.
  2. Fill Out the Application Form: Complete the visa application form according to the visa type you are applying for.
  3. Provide Supporting Documents: Submit your passport, photographs, and any additional documents such as flight bookings and hotel reservations.
  4. Attend Biometrics (if required): Some applications require biometric data. Ensure you attend any biometric appointments.
  5. Wait for Processing: The processing time for regular tourist visas is typically 7 to 15 business days. You will be notified when your visa is ready for pickup or delivery.

Conclusion

Obtaining an Indian tourist visa as a UK citizen is a straightforward process with multiple visa options depending on your travel plans. Whether you're applying for the e-Tourist Visa for a short stay or a longer-term 6-month, 1-year, or 5-year visa, it’s important to follow the correct application process and provide all the required documentation.

By understanding the various types of visas, associated costs, and requirements, you can easily navigate the visa process and enjoy your trip to India, a land full of history, culture, and adventure.

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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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