Indian Visa for UK Citizens: The Complete Process

India is a fine country with a vibrant culture, beautiful sightseeing opportunities, great historic places, and fantastic nature. First of all, for any UK citizen to visit India, he/she must obtain a visa. This article provides all the details of an Indian visa application: eligibility, documents required, modes of application, processing time, and frequently asked questions.

Eligibility for UK Citizens

Various types of Indian visas for UK citizens are available . The most frequently used categories include these:

– Tourist Visa: For tourists visiting India with the purpose of sightseeing.

– Business Visa: For any conference or trade fair, meetings, or any kind of business-related visit.

– Medical Visa: If one decides to take medical treatment in India.

– e-Visa: This is available for short stays for example tourism, business, medical, etc.

Basic Requirements:

Passport Validity: Your passport should have at least six months of remaining validity from the date you intend to visit India.

Blank Pages: There should be at least two blank pages available in your passport for visa stamps

Return Proof: A return or onward journey proof might be asked to indicate your intention to leave the country once you are done with your stay in India.

Valid Passport: Colour scan of the personal information page.

Passport-Sized Photograph: On a white background according to the requirement on the Indian visa portal. Additional documents are required for different visa categories:

E-Business Visa: Invitation letter from the Indian Company you intend to visit.

E-Medical Visa: Letter from the Indian Hospital where you will be treated.

Always ensure that the documents you provide meet the criteria of the Indian visa application portal so as to avoid delays in processing.

3. Online/Offline Application Option

UK nationals can apply using both, online or offline mode

1. a) e-Visa; applied online

Indian e-Visa is a short-term stay visa.

Here is a brief descriptions of the major categories of e-Visa:

– e-Tourist Visa: The applicant can stay for one month, double entry; one year or five years, both are multiple entries.

– e-Business Visa: Multiple entry visa issued for a stay of up to 180 days within the country.

– e-Medical Visa: For medical purposes, granted for three entries in sixty days.

1. b) Traditional Visa- Offline Version

The traditional visa or paper visa is taken for long-term stays or specific purposes including employment or study. The procedure includes:

1. A visa application form to be filled out online.
2. Application form with attachments print and an appointment to be booked with the local Indian visa centre.

The regular visas are always time-consuming, so start applying several weeks in advance.

4. Processing Time

– e-Visa Processing Time: Generally 3-5 working days. In case of travel, apply at least one week before.

-Traditional Visa Processing Time: Subject to the type of visa and the number of applications. Generally, it takes around 1 to 3 weeks.

While applying for a traditional visa, it is always better to apply early in order to avoid any unavoidable delay.

5. FAQs
6. How long is the Indian e-Visa for UK citizens?

– Depending on the type of visa, e-Visas are valid for one month, one year, or five years for different entry rules.

2. Can I renew my Indian visa when already in India?

– Normally, e-Visas cannot be renewed, but traditional visas can be renewed at the Foreigner Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in India.

3. Will the visa fee be returned in case of a rejection?

– No, visa fees are non-refundable even if the application is rejected.

4. Am I required to carry a printed copy of my e-visa?

Yes, carry a printed copy of your e-visa while presenting at immigration when you arrive.

5. When do I apply for an Indian visa?

For an e-visa, you should apply at least one week before traveling. For a traditional visa, it is always best to apply for a month in advance.

Final Tips for a Seamless Application Process

1. Verification of all data: Make sure that your information is correct and consistent with that on your passport.
2. Extra copies: Carry extra printed copies of visas and other relevant documents.
3. Apply a week before for your travel plans for an e-visas and a month prior for traditional visas.
4. Adherence to the requirements of files: Ensure that all files are up to the requirements.

Applying for an Indian visa is quite Hassel free if  planned properly. We hope that these steps and tips helps you in making it a memorable journey to India, exploring its rich culture, historic sites, and welcoming lands.

Reach us out at Indian Visa Centre if you need any assistance with the process, our team would be happy to help you.

Safe travels!