Applying for an India visa is straightforward once you understand your options. The good news: both UK and US citizens can apply for the Indian e-Visa online, which covers the vast majority of tourist trips without ever visiting an embassy.
e-Visa vs Embassy Visa
The e-Visa (also called the Electronic Travel Authorisation, or ETA) is the easiest route for most travellers. You apply entirely online through the official Indian government portal at indianvisaonline.gov.in, pay your fee by card, and receive your visa by email within 72 hours in most cases — though applying 4–7 days ahead gives you breathing room.
The embassy or consulate visa (a sticker in your passport) is worth considering if you need a longer stay, plan to visit multiple times over several years, or have a complex itinerary involving work or research. Processing takes 3–5 working days for standard service; some consulates offer urgent same-day processing for a higher fee.
Visa Types and What They Cover
For tourists, the e-Tourist Visa is the correct choice. It comes in 30-day, 1-year, and 5-year variants. The 30-day single-entry version suits most holidays. The 1-year multi-entry option is excellent value if you plan to travel to neighbouring countries and return to India during your trip.
Business travellers should select the e-Business Visa, which permits attending meetings, conferences, and site visits but not paid employment.
Costs
- UK citizens: approximately £25–£80 depending on visa type and duration
- US citizens: approximately $80–$100 (US citizens pay a higher reciprocal fee)
- Embassy visa fees vary — check your nearest Indian High Commission or Consulate
Application Tips
Use only the official government website (indianvisaonline.gov.in). A number of lookalike scam sites charge inflated fees for the same service. Have a passport-style photo (white background, 350×350 pixels minimum) and a scan of your passport biographical page ready before you begin.
You must print your e-Visa approval and carry it alongside your passport — immigration officers at Indian airports scan both. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date and have at least two blank pages.
Arriving in India
On arrival, proceed to the e-Visa or foreign nationals immigration queue — separate from Indian nationals. Some major airports like Delhi (Indira Gandhi International) and Mumbai (CSIA) have dedicated e-Visa counters that move faster. After the long flight, there is nothing better than knowing your paperwork is in order so you can focus on finding that first cup of chai.