India is one of the most popular travel destinations, offering a rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. If you’re a UK citizen planning to visit India, understanding the visa application process and associated costs is essential. The cost of a visa to India depends on the type and duration of your visit, with various options available for tourists, business travelers, students, and other purposes. This article will break down the costs of the most common types of visas for UK citizens.
Tourist Visa
A Tourist Visa is one of the most frequently applied for visas for those visiting India for leisure. The cost of a Tourist Visa depends on the duration of your stay and whether you need a single or multiple entry visa.
Cost Breakdown
Tourist Visa for up to one year (single or multiple entry): GBP 127
Tourist Visa for a duration of one year to five years (multiple entries): GBP 378
A Tourist Visa allows you to visit India for sightseeing, meeting friends and family, or attending non-business-related activities. The visa duration determines its price, with the longer duration (up to five years) costing significantly more.
Business Visa
For those visiting India on a business trip, a Business Visa is required. This visa is suitable for attending meetings, conferences, or setting up business-related activities in India.
Cost Breakdown
Business Visa for up to one year (single or multiple entry): GBP 189
Business Visa for a duration of one year to five years (multiple entries): GBP 567
The Business Visa has higher fees compared to the Tourist Visa due to its specific use for professional purposes. It can be granted for both short-term (up to one year) and long-term (up to five years) stays, with the cost escalating based on the duration.
Entry Visa
An Entry Visa is issued to individuals who wish to enter India for a variety of purposes, including accompanying a family member who is a foreign national, or for other specific reasons such as research or exploration.
Cost Breakdown
Entry Visa for up to one year (single or multiple entry): GBP 127
Entry Visa for a duration of one year to five years (multiple entries): GBP 378
Similar to the Tourist Visa, the Entry Visa has the same cost structure. However, it is typically used for non-tourism-related reasons.
Conference Visa
The Conference Visa is designed for individuals attending conferences, seminars, or business meetings in India. If your purpose for visiting India is primarily attending a conference, this is the visa you should apply for.
Cost Breakdown
Conference Visa (up to 6 months): GBP 63
A Conference Visa is one of the more affordable options, designed specifically for short-term visits to attend business-related events.
Student Visa
A Student Visa is required for anyone planning to study in India for more than 180 days. This visa is ideal for those pursuing higher education, language courses, or vocational training.
Cost Breakdown
Student Visa (up to 5 years): GBP 179
The Student Visa is priced at a moderate rate, reflecting the long-term nature of the stay. Whether you’re attending a university or other educational institution, this visa will cover the full length of your studies, up to five years.
Journalist Visa
Journalists, reporters, and media professionals traveling to India for work will need to apply for a Journalist Visa. This visa is designed to support those working in the media sector, including newspaper, magazine, and television reporters.
Cost Breakdown
Journalist Visa (up to 6 months): GBP 63
The Journalist Visa shares the same price as the Conference Visa, making it one of the more affordable visa types available. However, it is strictly limited to media professionals.
Employment/Project Visa
An Employment or Project Visa is required for individuals planning to work in India for a specific employer or project. The cost of this visa varies depending on the duration of the stay.
Cost Breakdown
Employment/Project Visa (Duration-based): GBP 360 to GBP 467
The Employment/Project Visa is typically issued for employment contracts or specific projects, with costs based on the contract’s duration. The visa duration can range from one year to five years, and the cost escalates accordingly.
Medical/Escort Visa/Ayush Visa
India is a popular destination for medical tourism, and if you’re traveling for medical treatment, you may need a Medical Visa. Additionally, the Escort Visa is available for those accompanying a patient, and the Ayush Visa is for those seeking alternative treatments like Ayurveda.
Cost Breakdown
Medical/Escort Visa/Ayush Visa: GBP 101
These visas are slightly more expensive than the Conference Visa or Journalist Visa, but still affordable for those seeking medical or alternative treatments in India.
Transit Visa
If you’re passing through India en route to another country, a Transit Visa is required. This visa is suitable for travelers who are stopping in India for a short duration while in transit.
Cost Breakdown
Transit Visa (up to 3 months): GBP 69
The Transit Visa is relatively inexpensive, as it is issued for short-term stays while traveling through the country.
Conclusion
The cost of a visa to India from the UK varies depending on the type and duration of your visit. Whether you’re a tourist, business traveler, student, or seeking medical treatment, there is a visa option tailored to your needs. Understanding the visa costs is essential to ensure a smooth application process and avoid any unexpected fees.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information on visa costs, always refer to the official Indian visa website or consult the nearest Indian embassy or consulate.
