E visas for India

India is finally opening up its e-visa system to UK subjects in an attempt to boost tourism.
 
Last week it changed its admission rules.  Britons are one of 113 nationalities able to apply for India's “e-Tourist visa”, making the process of obtaining correct entry documents cheaper and quicker.

UK passport holders can now apply and pay for an online visa using the Indian government’s tourist visa website, removing the need to book an appointment at the outsourced visa processing agency, or make a laborious postal application.

The cost has been reduced from the current US$140 (£89.44) to US$60 (£39), and rather than book an appointment at an application centre or provide documents in the post, applicants will now be able to upload documents, pay the balance and track their application online.

Visas will still not be issued immediately – once an online application is submitted, travellers can expect to receive entry documents via email within four days, somewhat quicker than previously.

E-Tourist visas are valid for travellers visiting India for recreation, sightseeing, and business.

The Indian government website says that e-visa applications must be submitted a minimum of four days in advance of arrival in India.  Biometric data, including fingerprinting, will be collected at one of 16 designated points of entry.  http://india.embassyhomepage.com

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