India visa requirements for British citizens in 2026

Checked 1 Oct 2026 No changes since 1 Oct 2026
Flag of United Kingdom — passport nationality Flag of India — destination
Entry requirement
Visa required — apply online or at an embassy
Purpose
Tourism

Different passport? See India visa requirements for all nationalities ↗

Conditions for entry — required on every route

These apply whether you enter visa-free, on a visa on arrival, or on an e-Visa. Airlines can deny boarding if they're not met.

Passport validity 6 months
Onward ticket Required — airlines may ask to see it at check-in · Get an onward ticket (partner) ↗

Your options

British passport holders travelling for tourism have the following routes into India:

1 E-Visa RECOMMENDED

British passport holders planning a visit to India for tourism purposes do not need a traditional visa for short durations. Instead, an electronic visa (eVisa) must be applied for and approved online before travel. Processing typically takes several business days.

ENTRY
E-Visa
PURPOSE
Tourist
Application details
Verified against an official source
Entries allowed
multiple
Required documents
  • Recent front facing photograph with white background
  • Photo page of Passport containing personal details
Official government portal ↗
Last updated 12 Oct 2026 · Source: indianvisaonline.gov.in ↗
2 Embassy Visa ALTERNATIVE

For British citizens looking to travel to India, securing a visa prior to arrival is mandatory. Please consult the nearest India embassy or consulate for detailed visa application procedures.

ENTRY
Embassy Visa
PURPOSE
Tourist
Get your India visa online — the easy way
Our partner iVisa completes your application, reviews your documents so it isn't rejected, and gives 24/7 support in your language — 99% approved on time. A service fee applies.
Apply with iVisa ↗

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a visa for India from United Kingdom?
Yes, a visa is required for British citizens. United Kingdom passport holders can apply for a tourist visa online.
Do British citizens need a visa for India in 2026?
Yes, a visa is required for British citizens. United Kingdom passport holders can apply for a tourist visa online. Options include: E-Visa, Embassy Visa.
Can British citizens travel to India?
Yes, British citizens can travel to India, but an E-Visa is required.
What is the maximum length of stay in India with E-Visa for British citizens?
The maximum length of stay in India with E-Visa is not specified. British citizens must leave the country within the specified period.
What happens if a British citizen overstays their visa in India?
Overstaying an E-Visa in India can result in fines, penalties, and potentially being banned from entering India in the future. It is important to comply with the length of stay specified with the visa and leave the country within the allotted time.
What is the maximum length of stay in India with Embassy Visa for British citizens?
The maximum length of stay in India with Embassy Visa is not specified. British citizens must leave the country within the specified period.
How long must my passport be valid to enter India?
India requires a passport valid for 6 months.
Do British citizens need a return ticket to enter India?
Yes — India requires proof of onward or return travel, and airlines may ask to see it at check-in.
About India
Official
Republic of India
Capital
New Delhi
Currency
Indian rupee
Language
English
Calling code
+91
Population
1,429,404,000
Region
Asia · Southern Asia
Last checked 1 Oct 2026 · Entry rules can change at short notice — always confirm with the official source before you travel.