Indian Tourist Visa for UK Citizens: A Complete Guide

India is one of the world’s most exciting travel destinations, offering a rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. For UK citizens wishing to visit India, obtaining an Indian tourist visa is a necessary step. This guide provides comprehensive information on the Indian tourist visa for UK citizens, including the types of visas, application process, cost, and other important details to help you plan your trip effectively.

Types of Indian Tourist Visas for UK Citizens

When applying for a tourist visa to India, UK citizens have a few different options based on the purpose and duration of their stay:

  1. Standard Tourist Visa: This is the traditional visa granted for UK citizens traveling to India for tourism purposes. It is generally issued for either 6 months or 1 year and allows for single or multiple entries.

    • Single-entry visas: Allow you to enter India only once during the visa’s validity period.
    • Multiple-entry visas: Allow you to enter India multiple times within the visa’s validity period.
  2. e-Tourist Visa (eTV): The e-Tourist Visa is an online option available for UK citizens planning to visit India for tourism. It is a convenient choice for those who want to avoid lengthy paperwork and the need to visit the Indian embassy. The eTV is typically issued for 30 days or 60 days with two entries allowed during its validity period.

    • This visa can be applied for up to 120 days before your planned arrival date in India.
    • The e-Tourist Visa is available for travelers visiting India for short stays and is a great option for those planning a quick trip.
  3. Tourist Visa for Longer Stays: If you plan to stay in India for more than 6 months, you may need to apply for a longer tourist visa. This may involve special applications and documentation, depending on your specific circumstances.

Cost of Indian Tourist Visa for UK Citizens

The cost of an Indian tourist visa for UK citizens can vary depending on the type of visa, duration, and processing time. Below is a breakdown of the typical fees associated with the different visa types.

1. e-Tourist Visa (eTV) Cost for UK Citizens

The cost for an e-Tourist Visa depends on the duration of your stay and the processing time. Here are the general fees:

  • e-Tourist Visa (30 days): Around £10 to £30.
  • e-Tourist Visa (60 days): Approximately £20 to £50.
  • e-Tourist Visa (Multiple Entries): If you require multiple entries, the cost can be around £30 to £75.

The e-Tourist Visa fees can vary depending on processing speed. If you opt for expedited processing, you may incur additional charges.

2. Standard Tourist Visa (STV) Cost for UK Citizens

For longer stays or those who prefer the traditional visa route, the Standard Tourist Visa is an ideal choice. The cost for this visa can depend on the duration and number of entries. Here are the typical costs:

  • 6-Month Tourist Visa (Single Entry): Typically between £90 and £120.
  • 6-Month Tourist Visa (Multiple Entries): This can range from £110 to £150.
  • 1-Year Tourist Visa (Multiple Entries): A longer visa could cost approximately £150 to £200.

These costs are for the visa itself, but additional fees may be required for consular services or expedited processing.

Required Documents for UK Citizens Applying for an Indian Tourist Visa

When applying for an Indian tourist visa for UK citizens, there are several key documents you will need to submit along with your visa application. These documents help ensure that your application is processed smoothly and quickly.

  1. Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your planned date of arrival in India and must have at least two blank pages.
  2. Photographs: You will need to submit two recent passport-sized photographs that meet the Indian visa photo specifications.
  3. Visa Application Form: Whether applying online or at the embassy, you will need to fill out the official visa application form. For e-Visas, this form can be completed online.
  4. Proof of Travel Arrangements: Some applicants may need to provide flight details or proof of their travel itinerary. This is particularly important for the e-Tourist Visa.
  5. Financial Proof: You may be asked to provide proof that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in India (bank statements, payslips, etc.).
  6. Address Proof: For standard applications, a proof of address in the UK may be required.

How to Apply for an Indian Tourist Visa from the UK

The application process for an Indian tourist visa for UK citizens varies based on the type of visa you are applying for. Below are the general steps for both e-Tourist Visa and Standard Tourist Visa applications:

Applying for the e-Tourist Visa (eTV)

  1. Visit the Official Website: Go to the official Indian e-Visa website and choose the e-Tourist Visa option.
  2. Fill Out the Application: Complete the online visa application form with your personal details, travel plans, and passport information.
  3. Upload Documents: You will need to upload a scanned copy of your passport’s bio-data page and a recent passport-sized photograph.
  4. Pay the Visa Fee: The visa fee can be paid securely using a debit/credit card or online payment system.
  5. Wait for Approval: The e-Tourist Visa usually takes around 3 to 5 business days to process.
  6. Receive Your e-Visa: Once approved, the e-Tourist Visa will be emailed to you. You must print the e-Visa and present it on arrival in India.

Applying for a Standard Tourist Visa

  1. Visit the Indian Embassy or Visa Center: Alternatively, you can apply in person at the Indian Embassy or through a visa application center.
  2. Complete the Application Form: You must fill out the visa application form and provide the necessary documents, such as your passport, photographs, and travel details.
  3. Submit Documents and Pay Fees: Submit all required documents and make the payment for the visa fee.
  4. Wait for Processing: The processing time for a Standard Tourist Visa typically takes between 5 and 7 business days.
  5. Collect Your Visa: Once processed, you can collect your passport with the tourist visa from the embassy or visa center.

Processing Time for Indian Tourist Visas from the UK

The processing time for an Indian tourist visa for UK citizens varies based on the type of visa you apply for and the processing speed:

  • e-Tourist Visa: This visa typically takes around 3 to 5 business days for approval.
  • Standard Tourist Visa: The processing time for a Standard Tourist Visa is generally 5 to 7 business days. Expedited processing options are available at an additional cost.

Additional Information for UK Citizens Traveling to India

  1. Travel Insurance: While it’s not mandatory, it’s always a good idea to purchase travel insurance before your trip to India. Insurance can protect you in case of medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage.

  2. Vaccination Requirements: Depending on the regions you plan to visit in India, certain vaccinations may be recommended, such as hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and tetanus.

  3. Arrival in India: Ensure you have all the necessary documents ready when you arrive in India, including your passport, e-Visa printout (for e-Tourist Visa holders), and travel documents.

Conclusion

Obtaining an Indian tourist visa for UK citizens is a straightforward process, whether you choose the e-Tourist Visa or the traditional Standard Tourist Visa. The cost of the visa can vary based on the type of visa you apply for and the duration of your stay. Be sure to allow enough time for processing and ensure you have all the necessary documents to avoid delays. With the right preparation, your journey to India can be an unforgettable experience filled with rich cultural exploration 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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