India is a country with a rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes. Every year, millions of people from all over the world visit India for various reasons, such as tourism, business, education, and medical treatment. If you are a citizen of the United Kingdom (UK) and planning to visit India, you need to apply for an India visa UK. In this article, we will guide you through the entire process of obtaining an India visa UK, including the requirements, types, fees, and application process.
What is India Visa UK?
An India visa UK is an official document issued by the Indian government that grants permission to enter, stay, and exit India for a specific period, purpose, and category. All foreign nationals, including UK citizens, require a valid India visa to enter India, except for citizens of Bhutan, Maldives, and Nepal. The India visa UK is a crucial travel document that serves as proof of your identity, nationality, and eligibility to enter India.
Types of India Visa UK
There are several types of India visa UK, depending on the purpose, duration, and category of your visit. The following are the most common types of India visa UK:
1. Tourist Visa
The tourist visa is for those who want to visit India for recreational or sightseeing purposes. The tourist visa is valid for up to 180 days and allows multiple entries and exits. You cannot engage in any business or employment activities under a tourist visa.
2. Business Visa
The business visa is for those who want to visit India for business-related activities, such as attending conferences, meetings, or establishing business contacts. The business visa is valid for up to 180 days and allows multiple entries and exits. You cannot indulge in any employment or commercial activities under a business visa.
3. Student Visa
The student visa is for those who want to study in India, such as pursuing a degree, diploma, or certificate course. The student visa is valid for the duration of the course or up to five years, whichever is earlier. You need to provide proof of admission to a recognized educational institution in India and sufficient financial support for the entire course duration.
4. Medical Visa
The medical visa is for those who want to seek medical treatment in India, such as undergoing surgery, therapy, or consultation. The medical visa is valid for up to 180 days and allows multiple entries and exits. You need to provide proof of medical diagnosis, recommendation, and sufficient financial support for the entire treatment duration.
India Visa UK Requirements
To apply for an India visa UK, you need to fulfill the following requirements:
1. Valid Passport
You need to have a valid UK passport with at least six months of validity from the date of arrival in India. Your passport should have at least two blank pages for visa stamping. You need to submit a photocopy of your passport’s bio-data page along with the visa application.
2. Visa Application Form
You need to fill out the online India visa UK application form accurately and completely. You need to provide personal, passport, and travel details, such as name, date of birth, address, occupation, purpose of visit, and itinerary. You need to upload a recent passport-size photograph and signature as per the specifications.
3. Supporting Documents
You need to submit the following supporting documents along with the visa application:
a. Proof of Address
You need to provide proof of your current address in the UK, such as a utility bill, bank statement, or driving license.
b. Proof of Financial Support
You need to prove that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in India, such as bank statements, payslips, or tax returns.
c. Other Documents
You may need to provide additional documents based on the type and purpose of your India visa UK, such as a letter of invitation, travel itinerary, or medical certificate.
India Visa UK Application Process
The India visa UK application process consists of the following steps:
1. Online Application
You need to visit the official website of the Indian Visa Online (https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/) and fill out the online visa application form. You need to pay the visa fee online using a credit or debit card. You need to print and sign the visa application form and attach the supporting documents.
2. Appointment at VFS Global Center
You need to book an appointment at the nearest VFS Global center in the UK for biometric enrollment and document submission. You need to carry the printed visa application form, supporting documents, and passport to the VFS Global center on the scheduled date and time.
3. Collection of Passport
You can either collect the passport in person from the VFS Global center or opt for the courier delivery to your address. You need to provide the original receipt issued by VFS Global and a valid ID proof to collect the passport.
India Visa UK Fees
The India visa UK fee varies based on the type, duration, and category of your visa. The following are the current visa fees for UK citizens as of 2021:
1. Tourist Visa
The tourist visa fee for UK citizens is £92 for up to 180 days with multiple entries and £162 for up to 5 years with multiple entries.
2. Business Visa
The business visa fee for UK citizens is £92 for up to 180 days with multiple entries and £542 for up to 5 years with multiple entries.
3. Student Visa
The student visa fee for UK citizens is £122 for the entire duration of the course or up to 5 years with multiple entries.
4. Medical Visa
The medical visa fee for UK citizens is £92 for up to 180 days with multiple entries and £162 for up to 1 year with multiple entries.
Conclusion
Obtaining an India visa UK is a vital aspect of your travel preparation to India. By following the above requirements and application process, you can apply and obtain an India visa UK smoothly and efficiently. We hope this article has helped you understand the types, requirements, fees, and application process of India visa UK. Happy Journey!
