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UK Visa Guide

Among the lovely countries in Europe, you’ll most likely find the United Kingdom at the top of the charts. Being one of the most beautiful and popular choices to visit for Indians, there are many types of UK visas for Indian nationals. Several people come to the UK for various reasons like sightseeing, studying, or even working. While the rest of the country requires a UK visa to enter the country, some of the other nations can visit without it. 

Once you get your UK visa, you can book flights to the UK and delve into the charming English countryside, cruise through the canals, and explore the majestic cities. It is relatively easy to obtain a UK tourist visa from India. To get in-depth information about the different UK visas, you can visit the official government website .

Indian passport holders need to apply for a visa to enter the United Kingdom. For this, you need to go to the official website to get the UK visa. These are the steps to follow: 

• Go to the website and choose the type of visa you want
• You can apply and pay online for the visa
• Provide your proof of identity by checking the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ section
• You’ll receive a letter or an email with your UK visa application

You may hear back regarding your UK visa processing time within three weeks. Depending on the country you're in, you might be able to access different services or receive your visa quicker. Click here to know more.

You can check your UK visa application on the official website by filling out your visa application number and travel document number.

Planning to visit the United Kingdom but do not know which visa is perfect for you? This list may help you get the information you need. Scroll below to know the different types of UK visas.

The tourist visa or visitor visa is the most common type of visa to enter the United Kingdom. With the standard visitor visa, you can enter the country for tourism, business, and study for up to 6 months. 

Eligibility for a visit visa

• Your passport should be valid throughout the length of your stay 
• Confirmed round-trip flight tickets
• Proof of accommodation 
• Receipt of payment of visa fee
• At least two passport-size photographs
• Bank statement, as a proof of funds

Visitor visa validity

With the standard visitor visa, you can stay in the UK for up to 6 months. You will be able to extend the UK visa application under certain circumstances, such as for medical treatment.

Processing time for visitor visa

The UK visa processing time may take approximately three weeks. However, if there are any national holidays in between, it may take longer.

If you get a sponsor from a company in the UK, you will be able to get the UK work visa. UK work visas include the  health and care worker visa  and the  skilled worker visa . 

Eligibility for a work visa

• Confirmed return flight ticket
• Confirmed letter from the local company stating your date of joining and other details

In addition to the above, you must also be eligible with the following:

• A qualified medical practitioner like doctor, nurse, or social care worker
• The work you’ll do for the UK employer must be approved by the home office
• You must have a ‘certificate of sponsorship’ provided by the employer stating your new role in the UK
• You must receive a minimum salary, depending on the type of work 

Work visa validity

Your work visa is valid for up to five years. When your visa expires, you can renew it. 

Processing time for work visa

The uk work visas you can apply for without having a job offer.

• British National (Overseas) visa
• Graduate visa
• Youth Mobility Scheme visa
• India Young Professionals Scheme visa
• Apply for the Global Talent visa
• UK Ancestry visa
• High Potential Individual (HPI) visa

To know more about the different types of the UK work visas,  click here . 

Planning to study in the UK? Then you need to apply for a study visa. There are three types of UK study visa: student visa, child student visa, and study English in the UK (short-term study visa). You can apply for the UK study visa if you are 16 years of age or above. Make sure that you have been offered a course and have a receipt of payment for the course. 

Eligibility for a study visa

• Have a valid passport
• Confirmed letter from the university
• Proof of accommodation/hostel
• Receipt of payment of visa fee 

Study visa validity

Your study visa is valid depending on the length of the chosen course. 

Processing time for study visa

If you have a family in the UK, you can apply for the UK family visa and live in the country for more than six months. This will allow you to live with your spouse, partner, child, parent, or even a relative who will be able to provide a long-term care for you. 

Note : If you are planning to visit the UK for 6 months or less, the you can check for a standard visitor visa or marriage visitor visa instead. 

Eligibility for a family visa

• Proof of accommodation
• Acceptance letter from the university

Family visa validity

The UK visa for family is valid for 2 years and 9 months. You have the option to extend the family visa. 

Processing time for family visa

If you are applying for a family visa outside the UK, you will receive a decision within 24 weeks. And if you apply from the UK, you will receive a decision within eight weeks of your application date. You can also use the super priority service (unless you are applying as an adult to be cared by a relative in the UK). In this case, the decision will be provided within two working days, provided you give all your biometric information.

This type of visa is ideal to help you to pass through the UK. Based on your country, you may need a UK transit visa. You can  click here  to find out whether you will need a visa for transit. You will not require a transit UK visa if you have an EU Settlement Scheme family permit, have a Home Office travel document (refugee or stateless person), a standard visitor visa.

If you have a long layover and need to stay in the UK for more than 48 hours, or you are a frequent flyer that requires you to stay for more than six months, then you will need to apply for a Standard Visitor visa instead of a transit visa. You can apply for the transit UK visa  here . 

Eligibility for a transit visa

• Make sure you have a valid passport
• Provide details of your accommodation
• Show proof of onward flight details

Note : Make sure to bring your visa and documents when you travel through the UK. 

What to do if I want to visit the UK?

If you want to visit the UK, you can apply for the Standard Visitor visa. This visa is valid for up to 6 months and can be for a holiday or to see family, for a business trip or for a short course.

When is the right time to apply for a UK visa?

The earliest you can apply for a visa is three months before the travel date. If you are applying for a student visa, you can apply it at least six months before the course starts.

Can I apply for the UK visa online?

Yes, you can apply for the UK visa online from the official government website.

What is the processing time for visit UK visa?

Can i get a faster decision on my uk visa.

Yes, you can pay extra for a faster decision on your UK visa application (refer to the website here ). The time taken also depends on the type of visa you have applied for and from where you apply from.

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New Schengen Visa Rules for Indian Visitors: Key Questions Answered 

Peden Doma Bhutia , Skift

April 23rd, 2024 at 5:39 AM EDT

Destinations value Indian travelers, but lengthy visa processing times lasting months act as significant deterrents. The adoption of these new regulations by European authorities reflects a proactive effort to tackle these concerns, aiming to boost tourism flow.

Peden Doma Bhutia

The European Commission has introduced a new visa “cascade” regime for Indian nationals applying for Schengen visas in India. This regime looks to offer longer-term, multi-entry Schengen visas, based on the applicant’s travel history.

Indian travel agents had been complaining of Schengen visa delays as a major challenge to the summer travel rush from India.

• How does one qualify for the longer duration visas?

The European Commission can issue a two-year multiple-entry visa after a traveler “has obtained and lawfully used two visas within the previous three years.” This demonstrates a positive travel history and compliance with previous visa regulations.

Subsequently, after granting the two-year visa, authorities may issue a five-year visa if the passport has has adequate validity remaining.

• What benefits do holders of these extended visas enjoy?

During the validity period of these visas, holders can enjoy travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals within the Schengen area, allowing for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

• Which countries are part of the Schengen area?

The Schengen area comprises 29 European countries, including 25 European Union member states: Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland, and Sweden. Additionally, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland are also part of the Schengen area.

• Are there any restrictions or conditions to these visas?

Schengen visas do not grant the right to work within the Schengen area and are for short stays only. Additionally, the visas are not purpose-bound, providing flexibility for travel within the specified period.

Industry Take

Skift also spoke to players in the Indian outbound travel industry to understand what has changed in the new Schengen visa rules.

• How is this different from the earlier visas that Schengen countries offered? Don’t they already offer multi-entry visas with longer duration to Indians?

Mahendra Vakharia, managing director of Pathfinders Holidays, said there was no standard policy of Schengen states for issuing these long-term visas earlier. Switzerland, France, Netherlands, Italy and Spain usually issued long-term visa, but it was all subjective. “With this new policy it should be a standard rule now,” Vakharia said.

• Travelers mainly complain of longer processing times, has that changed?

Here too, there is no standard processing time as it varies from country to country, according to Vakharia. “France and Spain have been processing visas within four days, and then there’s Croatia, which takes 60 days,” he said.

Processing time will not change as of now, it will take time for the visa rules to be enforced, said an industry source, while highlighting that the visa would be especially useful for corporate travelers.

What Promoted The Move?

Speaking on the possible motivations, Vakharia acknowledged various reasons, including administrative capacity constraints at embassies to cater to the huge inflow of applications.

“As there is an overwhelming demand from Indian travelers, the process of securing visa appointments has posed significant challenges , especially for travelers residing in cities lacking VFS Global centers,” he said.

The European Commission said in an statement that the decision reflects the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility, aimed at fostering comprehensive cooperation on migration policy. Facilitating people-to-people contacts is a key aspect of this agenda, acknowledging India’s importance as an EU partner.

The decision also reflects a realization of the strong economic benefits derived through the spending power of Indian tourists. As Vakharia aptly puts it, “Why let go of the Golden Indian Goodie Bag?”

Skift India Report

The Skift India Report is your go-to newsletter for all news related to travel, tourism, airlines, and hospitality in India.

Have a confidential tip for Skift? Get in touch

Tags: asia monthly , europe , european commission , European summer travel , european union , india , india outbound , schengen , visa , visas

Photo credit: Park Guell in Spain. Unlike many Schengen countries, Spain has been processing visas within four days for Indian travelers. Mehmet Turgut Kirkgoz / Pexels

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Your complete guide to a uk visitor visa.

A Standard Visitor visa has replaced various types of visas into one. Know how to apply for a UK visitor visa and the documents you’ll need for that.

The Standard Visitor visa replaces...

• General visitor visa
• Visa for Private Medical Treatment
• Visa for Visiting child
• Approved Destination Status visa
• Sports Visitor visa
• Prospective Entrepreneur visa
• Family visitor visa
• Business visitor visas that include visas for doctors, dentists, and academics
• Entertainer Visitor visa

Applying for UK Visitor Visa

• Fill out the visa application form
• Gather the required documents
• Then fix an appointment
• Lastly, be present at the interview

Documents required

• The application form and two photographs as per UK guidelines
• Your valid passport that has a minimum of one blank page and your proof of financial means to cover your living cost for staying in the UK
• Details of your accommodations in the UK
• Your complete travel schedule
• Your travel history covers the last 10 years of your previous travel.
• Specific details about your home country’s living address.
• Your biometric information in case you’re applying for more than 6 months staying visa
• Letter of invitation, receipt of paid UK visa fee, criminal history, among others depending on your circumstances

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Business Visa For UK From India: Requirements For Indians

The UK Business Visa for Indian citizens enables eligible applicants to enter the United Kingdom to exercise long-term business activities, such as establishing a business. This visa may also apply to sports persons and coaches.

To learn more about the UK Business Visa from India or get help with your visa application, call IAS at  +44 (0)333 305 9375  or contact one of our immigration advisers online.

Request a call back from our immigration experts

• Our Services
• Content /Overview
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Benefits of Choosing IAS for Your Business Visa

Our team of immigration lawyers are experts in providing support to those applying for a business visa. Our goal is to maximise your chances of a successful outcome and ease your business travel/immigration.

IAS offers a comprehensive range of services, including Business Visa advice, document checking, business visa application, and concierge support.

Our dedicated immigration lawyers provide our services through a comprehensive and personalised approach to maximise your chances of success. Enjoy the following benefits by opting for IAS:

A personal immigration lawyer to provide answers to any concerns.

Guidance through the business set-up to ensure it qualifies for the business visa.

Reduce the risk of rejection through a high-quality application that we complete.

Confidence that your case is being handled by an experienced team of lawyers.

Services we Provide

Need help with an immigration issue? Book a one-to-one advice session with one of our legal caseworkers.

We can complete your visa application on your behalf, taking the stress and hassle out of the process.

Need to submit an application quickly? We can help you complete and send it off in as little as 24 hours.

Ensure you have the greatest chance of a successful appeal with our legal support and guidance.

Overview of Business Visas in the UK

The UK offers  Business Visas  for applicants looking to come to the UK to carry out business-related activities. There are various  Business Visa types , which have different requirements and permit varying lengths of stay.

If you’re an Indian citizen planning to travel to the UK for a short period to carry out business-related activity, there are two types of visas you might be eligible to apply for – the Standard Visitor Visa and the  Permitted Paid Engagement Visa .

If you’re planning to visit the UK for a period longer than 6 months, there are visas that allow long-term stays if you are coming from India on business-related travel.

Standard Visitor Visa

Standard Visitor Visa (Short-Term UK Business Visa) is for stays lasting up to 6 months. With this visa, you are permitted to carry out the following activities:

• Attend job interviews and other business-related meetings and activities.
• Meet with clients
• Attend trade fairs to promote business.
• Receive or provide business training.
• Give professional talks
• Carry out site visits and inspections.
• Oversee delivery of goods and services.
• Install, repair, dismantle, service or advise on business equipment, computer software and hardware (if your company in India has a contract with a UK company or organisation).

Please note that with the Standard Visitor Visa, you cannot do paid or unpaid work for a UK-based business or be involved in self-employment. If a UK organisation will offer a financial reward for your professional expertise, you may wish to apply for a Permitted Paid Engagement Visa.

Eligibility Requirements for the UK Standard Visitor Visa from India

To show your eligibility for the Standard Visitor Visa, you must demonstrate that you:

• Intend to leave the UK at the end of your visit.
• Have the financial resources to support yourself and your dependants during your stay, or you have funding from someone else to support you.
• Have money to pay for your return or onward journey or that your travel is being paid for
• Do not intend to live in the UK on this visa for extended periods or by visiting frequently.

Permitted Paid Engagement

The Permitted Paid Engagement Visa enables you to visit the UK for up to 1 month to undertake paid work without the need for sponsorship. You must be invited as an expert in your profession by a UK-based organisation or client. You can apply for the Permitted Paid Engagement Visa to the UK as:

• A professional artist, entertainer or musician
• Professional sportsperson
• An academic – examiner or assessor
• Air pilot examiner

Eligibility Criteria for the Permitted Paid Engagement Visa

To be eligible for the Permitted Paid Engagement Visa, you must show proof that:

• You are over 18
• Have a formal invitation from a UK-based organisation or client to come to the UK and carry out specific paid work related to your qualification, expertise, or profession in India.
• Are visiting the UK for a maximum of 1 month.
• You will leave the UK at the end of your visit.
• Have enough financial means to support yourself during your stay, or you have someone else to support you.
• Have sufficent money to pay for your return or onward journey, or you have someone who can pay for you.
• You will not live on this visa in the UK for extended periods or settle in the UK.

To assist you in obtaining a business visa for the UK, our immigration team is available.

Innovator Founder Visa

If you’re planning to come to the UK for longer than 6 months and are an experienced businessperson with an innovative business idea, you might be eligible for the Innovator Founder Visa. With this visa, you do not need a job offer, but you must have knowledge of English and a unique business idea. Additionally, your idea must be assessed by an ‘endorsing body’.

The Innovator Founder Visa is initially valid for 3 years but can be extended as many times as you want, provided you are still an eligible applicant.

Other Requirements for the Innovator Founder Visa

To apply for the Innovator Founder Visa, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• You must be at least 18 years old.
• Demonstrate that you have enough savings to support yourself during your stay in the UK (at least £1,270 in your bank account for 28 days before you apply, extend, or switch to the Innovator Visa).

Global Talent Visa

The  Global Talent Visa  is for leaders or potential leaders in fields such as:

• Academia or research
• Arts or culture
• Digital technology

This type of Business Visa allows you to apply if you’re an employee, self-employed and a company director. You do not need a job offer or knowledge of English to be eligible for the Global Talent Visa. However, you must have successfully applied for an endorsement to prove you are a leader or potential leader. You can also apply without an endorsement if you have won an eligible award.

Once your Global Talent Visa gets approved, it will be valid for up to 5 years with an option to extend.

For help with your UK business visa application, contact our lawyers today.

UK Expansion Worker Visa

The  UK Expansion Worker Visa  is for applicants who have not started trading in the UK yet. If you’re from India, you can set up your company’s first branch or subsidiary in the UK.

You must hold a valid Certificate of Sponsorship to be eligible for the UK Expansion Worker Visa. Additionally, you must demonstrate that you have worked for your employer in India for at least 12 months, have a job listed as an eligible occupation and be paid the minimum eligible salary required for your job.

This visa is initially valid for up to 1 year and can be extended for another year. If you wish to stay longer in the UK, you must switch to a different visa.

Eligibility Criteria for the UK Expansion Worker Visa

To be eligible for the UK Expansion Worker Visa, you must:

• Provide a valid certificate of sponsorship from your employer.
• Demonstrate that you have worked for your employer in India for at least 12 months – you can prove this by submitting printed payslips, online payslips with a letter from your sponsor, or bank statements.
• Carry out work that is on the list of eligible occupations.
• Make the minimum eligible salary required for your job.

India Young Professionals Scheme Visa

The  India Young Professionals Scheme Visa  allows eligible applicants to live and work in the UK. It enables you to work in most jobs, be self-employed or establish a business.

To apply, you must be selected in the India Young Professionals Scheme ballot, where the successful entries will be randomly picked.

Eligibility Criteria for the India Young Professionals Scheme Visa

In addition to being successful in the India Professionals Scheme ballot, you must fulfil the following eligibility criteria:

• Be an Indian citizen.
• Be between 18 and 30 years old.
• Have an eligible qualification – at Bachelor’s degree level or above.
• Have £2,530 in savings to support yourself during your time in the UK
• Not have any children under 18 who live with you or who you’re supporting financially.

Speak to our legal team today. They can help you with any question.

Eligibility Requirements for a UK Business Visa

In addition to the requirements specific to the type of Business Visa you want to apply for, you must fulfil the following general visa eligibility requirements:

• Show that you can support yourself and your dependants during your stay in the UK, or submit proof that someone else will fund your trip.
• Have enough money to pay for your return or onward journey, or show that someone else will pay for your return or journey
• Demonstrate that you have no intention of living in the UK for extended periods.
• Have adequate knowledge of the English language (if applicable to the type of Business Visa you are applying for).
• Demonstrate that you intend to leave the UK when your visit is over.
• Have a clear criminal record
• Be in good health.

Documents Required for a UK Business Visa from India

To apply for a UK Business Visa, you will need to provide the following supporting documents along with the visa application form:

• Passport – must have two blank pages for the visa stamp and must be valid for 6 months over your intended stay in the UK.
• Any previous passports
• Two recent passport photographs
• Invitation letter from a company in the UK (if relevant to the type of Business Visa you apply for) – must mention the details of your stay in the UK and the company’s information.
• Proof of business activities that you will undertake while you stay in the UK
• Police Clearance Certificate
• Medical test results to show that you meet the minimum health requirements – You must have a Tuberculosis (TB) test if you’re coming to the UK for 6 months or more. The clinic in India from which you obtain your TB test certificate must be approved by the Home Office.
• Demostrate your intent to return to India after your stay in the UK is over – you can show that you have strong ties to your home country by submitting a statement from your employer, mortgage documents, homeowners insurance in your name, marriage certificate, student ID, etc.
• Bank Statement to demonstrate that you have enough funds to cover your stay in the UK.
• Travel-related documents, such as hotel bookings, travel itineraries or accommodation arrangements.
• Proof of Indian Income Tax Returns for the last 3 years to demonstrate that the purpose of your trip is genuinely related to business
• Business/company registration certificate and letter (if you are an owner of a company or are self-employed)

Gathering all of the required documents for your visa application can be complicated. If you are still trying to decide what documents you must provide, contact IAS for advice. Call  +44 (0)333 305 9375,  or contact us online.

Costs Associated with the UK Business Visa for Indians

In addition to the essential savings you must demonstrate to apply for the UK Business Visa, you must pay a visa application fee. This cost of your Business Visa application will depend on the type of visa you apply for.

The fees for each type of visa are as follows:

• Standard Visitor Visa – £115
• Permitted Paid Engagement Visitor Visa – £115
• Innovator Founder Visa – £1191
• Global Talent Visa – £716
• UK Expansion Worker Visa – £259
• India Young Professionals Scheme Visa – £298

Additionally, most Business Visas in the UK require applicants to pay for a healthcare surcharge, which usually costs £624 per year, however, the India Young Professionals Scheme Visa requires a healthcare surcharge of £940 for the two years covered by the visa.

Please note that the visa fees change if you apply with your dependants or switch visas while you’re already in the UK.

How to Apply for the UK Business Visa?

To apply for the UK Business Visa, you must first contact your nearest UK Embassy or Consulate in India. The UK Embassy is in New Delhi, and there are consular offices in New Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Bangalore.

Once you gather all the supporting documents for your application, you must complete the visa application form and submit the documents along with the application.

When your application is complete, you can schedule and attend a visa appointment at the Embassy or Visa Application Centre nearest to you. The purpose of this appointment is to confirm the information you have provided in your visa application and to provide your biometric information (your fingerprints and photographs will be taken during this appointment). You must bring your original documents along with you to the visa appointment.

Get started with obtaining a UK business visa. Contact us today.

UK Business Visa Processing Time

The processing time for the UK Business Visa can take about 3 weeks. However, this time can be delayed if your application is missing information or documents. The UK Business Visa processing times can be affected if:

• There are inconsistencies in your application
• You do not prove genuine intent for a business trip
• The application is missing the required documentation
• The documents have not been verfied
• There is insufficient prove you have access to the correct financial funds
• You have a criminal record
• You have not attended your visa appointment, or you have yet to attend your visa appointment

How Can IAS Help?

Travelling to the UK on a Business Visa is a popular route for many Indian citizens wishing to work in the UK or establish a new business. However, the Business Visa application process can be time-consuming and stressful, preventing you from travelling to the UK, as well as having an impact on business.

Out team reliable immigration advisers can help you with your visa application process by ensuring you gather the necessary documents and complete your application to the highest standards.

Call IAS today for advice on your Business Visa application  +44 (0)333 305 9375,  or contact one of our advisers online.

We offer immigration advice sessions as face to face appointments at our Lagos office, all of our UK offices, or via the phone.

Table of Contents

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i extend the uk business visa.

Depending on the visa type, you might be eligible to extend your visa if you fulfil the requirements. The majority of UK Business Visas can be extended.

How much money do I need to support myself during my stay in the UK?

You must have around £153 per day to support yourself during your trip.

What is the English language requirement?

With some types of UK Business Visa, you must prove that you can read, write, speak and understand English at a minimum level B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale.

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UK to India travel restrictions: entry requirements explained

The e-visa has now been reinstated for uk passport holders travelling to india.

T he beaches of Goa, palaces of Rajasthan and slopes of the Himalayas reopened to foreign travellers in winter 2021. But for British travellers, the reopening hasn’t been smooth. The e-visa system introduced in 2014 was paused during the pandemic, and while it was reinstated when borders reopened, UK passport holders were not eligible to use it. Instead, travellers had to provide and present a paper visa. Fortunately, as of December 5, India’s visa policy has changed to allow UK nationals to use the e-visa service for travelling to India as well. Here’s what you need to know.

Main photo: Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur, Rajasthan (Getty Images)

Can I travel to India now?

Yes. However, any visas issued before October 2021 are no longer valid, so you’ll need to apply for a new one. For UK passport holders, the process of applying for a tourist visa has at least been simplified as it is now possible to apply for an e-visa again (see below).

Additionally, British citizens of Pakistani origin must apply for an Indian visa on a Pakistan passport, or prove that this has been renounced or cancelled. The process may take seven or eight weeks more.

If you’re a OCI or PIO cardholder, you don’t need a visa to enter India.

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How do I apply for an Indian e-visa?

Applications for the Indian e-visa must be submitted online using the Indian government’s dedicated website .

For the tourist visa, you’ll need to apply at least four days and up to 120 days before you travel. Visas are valid for 30 days, a year or five years.

The application form will require details such as your level of education, religion, and your parents’ nationality.

You’ll also need to submit a passport-style photo with a maximum file size of 1MB, as well as a scan of your passport.

How much does an e-visa cost?

The cost of the e-visa for tourists depends on the country you’re travelling from and varies depending on the time of year you’re planning to travel to India.

For the 30-day e-visa, the fee is US$10 for entry from April to June and US$25 for entry from July to March. The one-year and five-year e-visas cost US$40 and US$80 respectively.

How long does it take to get an e-visa?

The e-visa takes up to 72 hours to process, although you may receive it more quickly than that. If you haven’t received your e-visa after 72 hours, you’re advised to contact the visa service.

What are the travel restrictions?

India has scrapped the requirement for incoming travellers to show proof of vaccination or PCR test results on arrival. However, you will have to go through thermal screening on arrival and, if symptomatic, you may be isolated and taken to a medical facility. You will also need to follow local advice when on the ground.

Most states in India are loosening restrictions related to Covid, though you should still expect to wear face masks in public places.

Is it safe to travel to India?

For most parts of India, there is no UK Foreign Office advice to avoid travel — the only areas to which all travel is advised against are the majority of contested Jammu and Kashmir, and right by the border with Pakistan, except the crossing at Wagah with its popular daily closing ceremony. It also currently advises against all but essential travel to the state of Manipur, except the state capital Imphal and the Meiti Valley areas.

The FCDO has given countrywide warnings about the risk of terrorism; for context, the threat level described for India is the same as that for France . India is a large and complex country, so the list of safety advice is a long one. It’s worth reading up on the specific regions you plan to travel to and being aware of any political disturbances.

• Do I have to wear a face mask on a plane?

Where should I go when I’m there?

Trying to take in a cross-section of India in one trip is a real challenge: the country is almost 2,000 miles from the north to its southern tip, from high-altitude glaciers to swaying coconut palms. Most visitors prefer to focus on one of a number of traditional circuits, or combine two on a longer itinerary of two or three weeks. The most popular route is a loop of Delhi, Agra (home to the Taj Mahal) and cities in Rajasthan such as Jaipur and Udaipur on a more culturally focused tour. If beaches and lusher landscapes are holiday essentials, Kerala is the star of southern India.

Other popular regions and themes to focus on include spotting tigers and other wildlife in central Madhya Pradesh, or riding mountain railways and sipping tea in the foothills of the Himalayas. You don’t have to journey to remote regions to get off the well-furrowed track: though cinematic Mumbai and spiritual Varanasi are tourism mainstays, even a city with the heritage of Kolkata is somewhat overlooked by non-Indians, as are significant states such as Gujarat and Tamil Nadu. If you’re prepared to travel away from major hubs, you’ll get to places that tug at notions of what “India” is: Nagaland with its tribal cultures, Sikkim on the borders of Tibet, and the distant and jungle-clad Andaman Islands.

• The best festivals in India • The best places to visit in India

Take me there

Inspired to visit India but yet to book your trip? Here are the best packages from Tui * and B A holidays * . These are the best tours of India from our trusted partners* .

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