What happens if you arrive in India without a visa?
Arriving in India without a valid visa generally results in immediate refusal of entry, detention, and prompt deportation at your own expense. Airlines are unlikely to board passengers lacking proper documentation, and there is no visa-on-arrival for most nationalities.
Citizens of 43 countries, including the US, are now able to enter India and obtain a 30 day tourist visa upon arrival at the airport there. The sole purpose of visiting India must include recreation, sight-seeing, a casual visit to meet friends or relative, short duration medical treatment or casual business.
Stay: Continuous stay during each visit shall not exceed 180 days. If the intension is to stay for more then 180 days, shall get registered with FRRO/FRO concerned within two weeks after the expiry of 180 days.
Application for Emergency Visa (with supporting documents from India like Death Certificate/ Hospital/Doctor's certificate) has to be submitted in person at the High Commission of India, Aldwych, London, from 1000 hrs to 1730 hours on any working day and from 1000 hours to 1700 hrs during Saturdays, Sundays and ...
Visitors to India must obtain a visa unless they come from one of the visa-exempt countries. Nationals of certain countries may obtain a visa on arrival or an e-Visa online, while others must obtain a visa from an Indian diplomatic mission.
Indian rupee (INR) regulations: Indian law strictly prohibits the import or export of Indian Rupee banknotes. You can't legally take INR into or out of the country. This means you need to convert your money after arriving or rely on your bank card.
U.S. citizen travelers are now able to travel to India with a valid e-visa (or physical visa from an Indian embassy/consulate) AND a valid e-arrival form.
Time-Saving: E-visa processing times are often faster than VOA, and you can receive your visa approval via email. Reduced Wait Times: With an e-visa, you'll have a smoother arrival process, as your visa will be pre-approved.
The punishment under Section 14 of the Foreigner's Act can be up to 5 years in jail. If the overstaying period exceeds ninety days, the penalty costs will be enhanced by about Rs. 50,000.
(e) Citizens of 3 countries (Nepal, Bhutan and Maldives) are granted visa-free access and citizens of 3 countries (Japan, South Korea and UAE) are granted visa-on- arrival by the Government of India.
India e-Visa fees vary significantly by country and visa type (Tourist, Business, Medical, etc.), generally ranging from around $10-$25 for short-term tourist visas (30 days) up to $40-$80 for 1-year tourist visas, and potentially much higher for 5-year visas or specific nationalities, with additional service charges often applied by third-party agents. Always check the official Indian government portal for the most accurate, country-specific fees, as these are subject to change and currency fluctuations.
Indian visa costs for UK citizens vary significantly by visa type, with e-Tourist visas ranging from around £20-£70 (USD $25-$88) for short stays to £420+ for 5-year options (plus service fees), while traditional visas for tourism, business, or longer stays (like employment/student) can range from £63 for short-term to hundreds of pounds (e.g., £360-£467 for employment), plus processing fees. Always check the official High Commission of India in London or India Visa Online portal for the most current rates, as fees depend on duration, entry type, and processing method (e-Visa vs. traditional).
There are high risks of violent protests, civil unrest and acts of terrorism and militancy. Violent clashes between militants and security forces occur regularly. Terrorist attacks against security forces have led to civilian casualties. Further attacks could take place at any time.
Do I need a visa for India with a British passport?
Yes, UK citizens need a visa for India, with the easiest option usually being an e-Visa (e-Tourist Visa), which can be applied for online for tourism, business, or medical visits, but you must apply before traveling. For longer stays or other visa types, you might need a traditional "paper visa," requiring an in-person appointment at an Indian Mission/Office in the UK.
Applying for an Indian visa can be a smooth experience if done carefully. However, many applicants make avoidable errors that result in processing delays, unnecessary stress, or outright denials. From incorrect documentation to mismatched travel details, these mistakes can derail your travel plans.
To fill out India's e-Arrival Card online, foreign nationals must use the official Indian Visa Online portal, the Bureau of Immigration (BOI) website, or the "Su-Swagatam" mobile app up to 72 hours before arrival, providing passport, travel, and accommodation details as a digital replacement for the paper form, though paper forms are temporarily accepted until around March 2026.
