Navigating how and where to get visas can be cumbersome at the best of times. Given the recent visa changes for travel to India, we thought we’d help clarify the process a little. If you have further questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
There are now four methods of obtaining a tourist visa for India.
Mail Applications
Applications by mail directly to VFS Global/ Indian Visa Online. Applications made by post must select UK- London (Hounslow Application Centre only) when completing their application form online. The advised processing time is 2- 3 weeks. This visa is valid from date of issue for six months. Charge for this visa (as of August 2015) is £89.44 including VAT.
Application in Person
Application made in person at a regional centre. Please ensure you have a prior appointment to apply in person and on arrival must ensure you print both the online application form and appointment confirmation letter and bring it along with you. (All family members are not required to appear in person at the application centre.) Please reach the centre 15 minutes before the scheduled appointment time. Again please submit the application through http://in.vfsglobal.co.uk/
Visa Agency
Steppes Travel recommend applying for an Indian Visa through CIBT Visa Services who can obtain this on your behalf saving you the need to attend an appointment. By using our recommended visa service you can avoid the visit to the High Commission. CIBT will send a dedicated courier on your behalf. For more information the website is cibtvisas.co.uk Please use the following link www.cibt.com/steppestravel for the application form. CIBT’s fee for providing the service (and peace of mind) is £52 + VAT.
Online E Visa
Recent changes made by the Embassy on 15 August 2015 sees the introduction of an E visa application for UK Nationals. This facility is in addition to the existing visa services.
The introduction of the e-Tourist Visa is to facilitate tourists who plan a trip to India at short notice. The visa has a maximum validity of 30 days from date of arrival in India with single entry facility only. You can apply online a minimum of 4 days in advance of date of arrival and inside 30 days. The fee is US$60, which is non-refundable. Processing time is expected to be four days.
Whilst Steppes Travel is happy to advise on the necessary entry requirements and can recommend a visa service for UK nationals, it is your responsibility to obtain and allow sufficient time to process the visa.
