Indian visa services for UK residents
If you hold a British passport and don't have an OCI card, you need a visa every time you travel to India. The application process involves choosing the right visa type, completing an online form, preparing supporting documents (which vary by visa type), and attending a VFS Global centre appointment.
Sorted takes the complexity out of this process. We help you choose the right visa type, complete the online application, prepare all supporting documents including invitation letters and financial statements, and guide you through your VFS appointment. All for £150.
Visa types we handle
- Tourist visa — For holiday and family visits to India. Available in 6-month, 1-year, and 5-year multi-entry options
- Visiting visa for parents/family — For Indian family members visiting you in the UK. Includes invitation letter preparation, financial proof, and accommodation evidence
- Business visa — For conferences, meetings, and business travel to India. Requires company letters and Indian organisation invitation
- E-visa (electronic visa) — Quick electronic visa for short trips. Valid for 60 days with double entry. Processed in 48–72 hours
- Child/minor visa — Special requirements for British-born children travelling to India. Requires consent forms from both parents
- 5-year multi-entry visa — Best value for frequent travellers to India. Apply once, travel freely for five years
E-visa vs regular visa — which should you choose?
| Feature | E-visa | Regular (sticker) visa |
|---|---|---|
| Validity | 60 days | 6 months to 5 years |
| Entries | Double entry | Multiple entry |
| Processing time | 48–72 hours | 1–2 weeks |
| Cost (govt fee) | ~£25 | £80–£100 |
| Best for | One-off short trips | Frequent travellers |
| VFS visit needed? | No (online only) | Yes |
If you travel to India more than once every two years, the regular multi-entry visa is almost always better value. Sorted helps you pick the right option based on your travel plans.
What Sorted includes in visa service
- Complete online visa application form filling
- Invitation letter drafting (for visiting visa applications)
- Financial document preparation and presentation
- Photo specification compliance
- VFS Global appointment guidance and day-of checklist
- Support for any queries from the visa processing centre
How much does an Indian visa cost from the UK?
| Cost component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Sorted service fee | £150 |
| Government visa fee (varies) | £25–£100 |
| VFS service charge | ~£15–25 |
| Total range | £190–£275 |
Visa vs OCI — consider the long-term option
If you're of Indian origin and plan to visit India regularly, an OCI card (£175 through Sorted + ~£215 government fees) gives you lifetime unlimited access to India with no visa needed ever again. Compare that with renewing a tourist visa every 1–5 years. For many NRIs, OCI is the smarter long-term investment. Sorted can advise on which option makes more sense for your situation.
