India visa for British citizens
British citizens can apply online for an Indian e-Visa (tourist, business, medical or conference categories) on the official Government of India site before travelling.
Check the official site before you travel. imptpune.in is a hotel and travel site; it does not issue visas. Visa rules change: confirm on indianvisaonline.gov.in.
| Status | e-Visa available |
|---|---|
| Visa type | Indian e-Visa (tourist, business, medical, conference), applied for online |
| Where to apply | indianvisaonline.gov.in (e-Visa) |
| Processing | Set by the Government of India: check the official site |
| Arrival | At an airport or seaport designated for e-Visa arrivals |
British citizens are eligible for the Indian e-Visa, which allows travel for tourism, business, or medical purposes. You apply online at indianvisaonline.gov.in and receive an electronic travel authorisation. On arrival, you present this authorisation and your passport. The e-Visa is a convenient option for short stays, but you must check the official site for the latest requirements and conditions.
What the e-Visa Means
The Indian e-Visa is an electronic travel authorisation that lets British citizens enter India without visiting an embassy. You apply online, upload documents, and pay a fee. Once approved, you receive a document to print and carry. The e-Visa is linked to your passport electronically.
This visa covers tourism, business, and medical visits. It does not cover employment or long-term study. The e-Visa is valid for entry at designated airports and seaports. You must check the official site for the specific conditions that apply to your trip.
Before You Travel and On Arrival
Before travel, complete the online application at indianvisaonline.gov.in. Upload a recent photograph and a scan of your passport bio page. Pay the fee online. Wait for the electronic travel authorisation to be emailed to you. Print a copy to carry with your passport.
On arrival at an Indian airport, proceed to the e-Visa counter. Present your passport and the printed authorisation. Your biometrics will be taken, including fingerprints and a photograph. The immigration officer will stamp your passport. Keep the arrival slip safe for your stay.
Arriving in Big Cities and Travelling
Major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai have e-Visa counters at their international airports. The process is similar at each. After clearing immigration, you collect your luggage and exit. Taxis and app-based rides are available outside the terminal.
Travelling between cities is straightforward. You can take domestic flights, trains, or buses. The e-Visa allows movement within India. Always carry your passport and a copy of your visa. Some states require you to register with local police if you stay longer than a certain period; check the rules.
Staying Longer, Working or Studying
For stays beyond the e-Visa period, you need a different visa. Apply for a regular visa at the Indian High Commission in London. This applies to work, study, or long-term tourism. The e-Visa cannot be extended or converted to another visa type while in India.
If you plan to work or study in India, you must apply for the appropriate visa category before travel. Check the official website of the Indian High Commission for details. The e-Visa is not suitable for these purposes. Always verify the latest rules on the official site.
How to apply for the e-Visa
- Apply online on the official e-Visa site at indianvisaonline.gov.in.
- Upload a recent photograph and a scan of your passport bio page.
- Pay the fee online using a credit or debit card.
- Wait for the electronic travel authorisation to be emailed to you.
- Print a copy of the authorisation to carry with your passport.
- Travel and arrive at an e-Visa-designated airport or seaport.
- Complete biometrics on arrival, including fingerprints and a photograph.
Documents to carry
- Valid passport with at least six months validity
- Printed copy of the e-Visa authorisation
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Copy of your flight itinerary
- Proof of accommodation in India
British citizens: questions
Can British citizens get an e-Visa for India?
Yes, British citizens are eligible for the Indian e-Visa. Apply online at indianvisaonline.gov.in. The e-Visa covers tourism, business, and medical visits. Check the official site for current conditions.
How long does the Indian e-Visa take for UK citizens?
Processing times vary. Apply well before your travel date. The official site provides the latest information. Do not rely on any specific duration as it can change.
What documents do British citizens need for an Indian e-Visa?
You need a valid passport, a recent photograph, and a scan of your passport bio page. You also need a credit or debit card for the fee. Check the official site for any additional requirements.
Can British citizens extend the Indian e-Visa?
No, the e-Visa cannot be extended or converted to another visa type while in India. For longer stays, apply for a regular visa before travel. Contact the Indian High Commission for advice.
Which airports in India accept e-Visa for British citizens?
Many international airports in India accept e-Visa, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Kolkata. Check the official site for the full list of designated airports and seaports.
Where will you stay in Pune?
Koregaon Park for a first visit, Viman Nagar for the airport, Hinjewadi or Kharadi for work. Live prices for your dates open in the IMPT app.
Photo credits: Photo on Pexels.