This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of India’s current rules for the most common types of travel.
\n\nThe authorities in India set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the High Commission of India in London or another Indian consulate in the UK.
\n\nTo enter India, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive and have at least 2 blank pages.
\n\nCheck with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
\n\nYou will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
\n\nWhen returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement.
\n\nYou must have a visa to visit India unless you are an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholder.
\n\nIndia has a number of visa categories including tourist, business, work, journalist and medical. Make sure you get the right visa for your travel.
\n\nYou could be refused entry or deported for having the wrong visa. You could also be banned from entering India in the future.
\n\nFor the latest information on Indian visas and immigration requirements, see the Indian Bureau of Immigration.
\n\nFind out how to apply for a visa from the Indian Bureau of Immigration. Depending on your requirements, you may be able to apply for a:
\n\nCheck your eligibility and any restrictions before you apply. Allow plenty of time for your application to be processed.
\n\nIf you are of Pakistani origin, a British-Pakistani dual national or hold a National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP), the visa processing time will be substantially longer than other visa applications. More information is available from the High Commission of India.
\n\nIf you are a British-Pakistani dual national, you must apply for an Indian visa on your Pakistani passport. If you have renounced your Pakistani nationality, or cancelled your Pakistani passport, you will need to submit documentary proof of this.
\n\nIf you hold a valid Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card, you can use this, along with your valid British passport, to visit India. You do not need a visa. An Electronic Overseas Citizen of India (e-OCI) was launched in June 2026 and means holders of an e-OCI card need not carry a physical copy of the card. More information is available at Online OCI Services, including the requirement for special permission to undertake certain activities such as research, missionary activities or journalism.
\n\nForeign nationals arriving in India must complete an e-arrival card online before reaching immigration. The online e-arrival card can be completed up to 72 hours before you arrive. You should complete the online process in advance to avoid delays at the airport.
\n\nMore details are available on the Indian visa website. The e-arrival card is not a visa, and you will still need a separate valid visa or OCI card to enter India.
\n\nIt’s illegal to overstay your visa in India. Make sure you leave the country before your visa expires or get an extension if permitted to do so. More information is available from the Indian Bureau of Immigration.
\n\nIf you or someone you’re travelling with has a short-term tourist visa and is hospitalised, you may be able to convert to a medical visa.
\n\nMake sure you get your passport stamped
\nMake sure the border control officer puts a stamp in your passport when you arrive in India. You’ll need to show it when you leave, so border control officers know you have not overstayed your visa.
\n\nHotels, hostels and other accommodation providers must register foreign guests with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office. Make sure your accommodation provider, for example, hotels, hostels and homestead owners, registers you using the online C-form. (Web pages not accessible outside India).
\n\nYou will need your passport with a valid visa to get accommodation in country. British nationals who have overstayed their Indian visa have found it difficult to find accommodation.
\n\nIf you plan to stay in India for more than 180 days and do not hold an OCI card, you must register within 14 days of arrival with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (website not accessible outside India). You could be denied permission to leave if you do not do this.
\n\nYou may need to register your stay depending on the type of visa you hold, check if you need to.
\n\nWhen you leave India, officials will check when you entered the country. If you do not have an entry stamp, for example, if you have a newly issued passport or an emergency travel document, you must apply for a special exit permit before you travel. If you need to apply for an exit permit, you can only apply to the Foreigners Regional Registration Office from within India (website not accessible outside India). It can take between 5 and 15 working days for straightforward applications. Factor this into your timeframe to leave India when you are booking flights.
\n\nTo enter India, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a:
\n\nFor full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s India guide.
\n\nAs a public health measure, India has introduced health screening measures, including completing a mandatory Self-Declaration Form for all international passengers arriving in India. The Self-Declaration Form should be completed up to 24 hours before arrival through the Air Suvidha Portal.
\n\nIf you don’t complete the form before you arrive, expect delays. Travellers from affected regions should also be prepared to undertake temperature checks. If you show symptoms, you may be subject to isolation, quarantine, and/or travel restrictions. Monitor local media and follow the advice of the airlines you are travelling with, local authorities and your travel company.
\n\nThe World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared this a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
\n\nThere are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of India. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.
\n\nThere are restrictions on bringing Indian rupees into India. Visitors, including residents and tourists, must follow Reserve Bank of India guidelines.
\n\nIf you’re visiting India, you can bring cash, travellers cheques (in British pounds or another foreign currency) or a bank card with you and exchange or withdraw rupees in India.
\n\nYou must declare any amount above 5,000 US dollars in notes, or 10,000 US dollars in notes and travellers cheques combined.
\n\nSpecial permits are required to visit certain parts of India designated as restricted or protected areas.
\n\nPermit regulations can change at any time.
\n\nInformation is available from:
\n\nYou need to apply for permits 3 months before your arrival. You can submit your application:
\n\nForeign tourists and researchers must keep to security and administrative guidelines during visits to tribal areas across the country. For the more information see the Indian Bureau of Immigration
\n\n","safety_html":"This guide also has safety advice for regions of India.
\n\nThere is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
\n\nUK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
\n\nTerrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in India.
\nThere is a heightened risk of terrorism in some Indian regions. Read our advice on regional risks in India for more information.
\n\nTerrorist and insurgent groups operating in India include:
\n\nTerrorist attacks have targeted Indian government interests and civilians, including tourists and foreign nationals. Security has been strengthened, including at major hotels and transport hubs. However, terrorist attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals, such as:
\n\nTake particular care during periods of national or religious significance, such as:
\n\nStay aware of your surroundings and keep up to date with local media reports. It is advisable to always carry identity documents and follow the advice of local authorities.
\n\nStrikes (sometimes referred to as ‘bandh’ or ‘hartal’), political rallies and demonstrations happen frequently and can become violent. The risks are higher during elections and after the death of party or government leaders. Protests can happen at short notice, especially around days of national importance.
\n\nLocal authorities may impose curfews and other restrictions. Transport and public services including mobile networks and internet may be disrupted. Stampedes have occurred during some events with large crowds like sporting events, parades or religious gatherings resulting in death and injuries.
\n\nYou should:
\n\nIf you’re the victim of crime in India, call:
\n\nKeep a copy of your passport complete with your emergency contact details, visa and flight ticket separately from originals when travelling. Leave copies at home where others can access them, and store copies electronically. If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the police immediately and get a police report. You will need the police report for your exit visa application.
\n\nTake care of your possessions on buses, trains and in crowds. Criminals may ride past on motorbikes and snatch valuables.
\n\nBe cautious in tourist areas, where scammers, pickpockets and ticket touts target foreign nationals.
\n\nCybercrime, internet scamming, card skimming and confidence scams are common. These scams come in many forms and can cause great financial loss.
\n\nCriminals often use the details of British High Commissions and Embassies. Be cautious and check the authenticity of details before responding.
\n\nIf you’re a victim, report it to local police and obtain a copy of the report for your insurer. You can also report a cybercrime on the National Cybercrime Helpline by dialling 1930 and make a complaint on the national portal
\n\nBe wary of accepting drinks or food from strangers or leaving drinks unattended. There have been reports of spiked drinks and food, with British nationals being robbed or assaulted.
\n\nThere has been an increase in cases of serious illness caused by alcoholic drinks containing methanol in popular travel destinations around the world.
\n\nEven small amounts of methanol can kill. It is not possible to identify methanol in alcoholic drinks by taste or smell. See Travel Aware Drink Spiking and Methanol Poisoning for information about how to reduce the risks.
\n\nSeek urgent medical attention if you or someone you are travelling with show the signs of methanol poisoning after drinking.
\n\nThere is a risk of sexual assault, including attacks on female foreign national visitors in tourist areas and cities.
\n\nFemale travellers often experience verbal and physical harassment by individuals or groups of men. Serious sexual attacks involving both Indian and foreign nationals have been reported. British women have been victims of sexual assault, including rape, in multiple states in India. Avoid isolated areas, including beaches, when alone at any time of day.
\n\nSee advice for women travelling abroad.
\n\nRespect local dress code and customs, particularly when visiting religious sites and rural areas.
\n\nLaws on alcohol, including buying, drinking and the legal drinking age, vary by state. Get advice from your travel agent, hotel or the authorities about the laws in areas you are visiting.
\n\nIt is illegal to drink alcohol in public places, such as parks.
\n\nIn some states, foreign nationals and non-resident Indians can buy 30-day alcohol permits.
\n\nThere is often a ban on the sale of alcohol during major religious festivals, national holidays and elections. Police can carry out vehicle checks during this period.
\n\nThe consumption, production or transportation of alcohol is illegal in:
\n\nIf you drink or possess alcohol in these states, you could be arrested and held without bail. You could face a prison sentence of 5 to 10 years.
\n\nIt is illegal to smoke in most public places. Only smoke in designated smoking areas.
\n\nVapes and related products are banned. You cannot buy vapes in India or bring them into the country.
\n\nDo not get involved with any illegal drugs. Drugs are not categorised as they would be in the UK, into Class A, B and C and possession of any illegal drug could lead to sentencing. You could face a minimum sentence of 6 months for possession of small amounts deemed for personal consumption only, up to a 10-year sentence for other amounts. The judicial process is slow, and you could be detained for several years while your case is processed.
\n\nActivities involving cameras and binoculars, like photography, birdwatching or plane spotting, may be misunderstood. Be particularly careful near military sites, government buildings, airports and railway stations.
\n\nIt is illegal to possess and operate satellite phones and GPS devices in India without a licence, even if you are only transiting through India. This may also cover other satellite-enabled devices, including handheld or cycling GPSs. You can be fined or arrested for possession of these devices without permission and the item can be confiscated.
\n\nA number of British nationals have been arrested or detained for bringing satellite phones and other satellite-enabled navigational devices into the country without prior permission. Contact the Indian Department of Telecommunication to request a licence. Further information is also available at the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security.
\n\nThere are strong currents in rivers and off many coasts and people drown every year. Most beaches do not have warning signs, flags or lifesaving equipment. Take local advice and follow warnings and instructions issued by lifeguards. Emergency service standards may differ from those in the UK.
\n\nSee water safety on holiday from the Royal Life Saving Society.
\n\nTrekkers should:
\n\nLeave details of where you’re going and when you expect to return with your accommodation. You are extremely unlikely to have a phone signal in the mountains, so make sure your accommodation provider registers your whereabouts using the online C-form.
\n\nIt is illegal to possess or operate satellite phones or GPS devices without prior permission of the Indian authorities. Contact the Indian Department of Telecommunication to request a licence.
\n\nHazards when trekking exist throughout the year, especially above 3,000 metres, including:
\n\nMake sure your insurance policy covers you for altitudes over 2,400m and mountain rescue and helicopter costs.
\n\nWhile commercial ground-based search and rescue (SAR) teams generally do not operate at base stations above 3,000m, commercial helicopters do. This would require insurance. In some border areas only the Indian Air Force can carry out air rescues. However, they are under no obligation to perform them and only carry out rescues during working hours.
\n\nSame-sex sexual relationships are legal in India. However same-sex marriage is illegal. Indian society is conservative. This includes attitudes to LGBT+ people, which can be less accepting than in the UK. There is a risk of harassment and discrimination, especially outside of big cities. Showing affection in public may attract unwanted and negative attention.
\n\nSee more advice for LGBT+ travellers.
\n\nIndian family law is different from UK law. Special caution is needed when child custody becomes an issue. In case of dispute, consult a lawyer in India to find out more about the relevant laws.
\n\nCommercial surrogacy is illegal for foreign nationals in India. Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) should seek legal guidance on non-commercial (altruistic) surrogacy.
\n\nIt is illegal to buy, sell, kill or capture any protected wild animal or trade its parts without a licence. India has a strong legal framework to regulate and restrict wildlife trade and is also a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). If you’re caught purchasing or trafficking these illegally, you will be prosecuted and receive a prison sentence or fine.
\n\nThere are severe penalties for any form of sexual offence against a child. There is a minimum jail term of 20 years, which may go up to life in prison or a death sentence, for anyone convicted of raping a child aged 12 or under.
\n\nIf you are planning to drive in India, see information on driving abroad.
\n\nYou’ll need to have both the 1949 version of the international driving permit (IDP) and your UK driving licence with you in the car. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.
\n\nRules on how long you can drive on a UK licence vary from state to state.
\n\nIndia has a high death rate from road accidents. Comply with the police if they are at the scene. If the police are not present, it could be unsafe to remain at the scene. If safe to do so, go to the nearest police station.
\n\nDriving can be dangerous in urban and rural areas due to wandering livestock. Accidents involving cows can draw crowds and potentially lead to violence. Anyone in the vehicle involved may be attacked or targeted for extortion. It is common to use your horn or flash your headlights frequently to announce your presence on the road.
\n\nAvoid travelling at night and in fog as accidents are common due to low visibility and there is a higher risk of crime at night. Always travel in a well-maintained vehicle.
\n\nIf you travel by motorbike, wear a helmet and proper footwear.
\n\nBuses are often driven fast and recklessly. Accidents are common.
\n\nBe careful when crossing streets, even in marked pedestrian areas and especially at night, as vehicles sometimes drive on the wrong side of the road.
\n\nAvoid travelling alone and hailing taxis on the street, especially at night. App-based taxis like Uber and Ola are widely available, including in all airport terminal buildings. Pre-paid taxi services are also available and many hotels offer transfers. If a hotel driver is collecting you at the airport by, make sure they properly identify themselves before you set off.
\n\nIf you book a taxi online, there’s usually a way to share journey details with your contacts who can then follow your location.
\n\nSeatbelts are not common in 3-wheel taxis (autos) or in the back seats of taxis. Try to use taxis that have seatbelts.
\n\nWhen travelling through an airport, allow enough time to complete check-in and security procedures, as your baggage may need to go through screening equipment and checks. Allow time for transiting between flights if you need to change from international terminals to domestic terminals, even if using the airport shuttle service. Some places, e.g. Mumbai and Goa, have two airports located at a considerable distance from each other. Check your airport when booking your flights, especially if you are transiting through these places.
\n\nIf you arrive on a charter flight booked through a tour operator, you can only fly into and out of the country with the same charter operator. Chartered flight passengers are not allowed to fly into or out of the country using a scheduled airline.
\n\nTrain travel in India is generally safe, however accidents happen and have previously resulted in death and serious injury. There are police or guards on trains and stations if you need help. You must carry valid ID.
\n\nWhen travelling by train:
\n\nTourist boats and other small craft rarely carry life-saving equipment.
\n\nAlthough piracy has not so far affected India’s territorial waters, it poses a significant threat in parts of the Indian Ocean. Mariners should follow shipping industry guidelines on precautions to take.
\n\nShips and crew must have the necessary authorisation and paperwork before entering Indian territorial waters and follow Indian laws and regulations. If carrying weapons on board ships in Indian territorial waters, you must follow Indian laws and regulations.
\n\nIndia can experience extreme weather events that threaten life and disrupt infrastructure, including buildings, roads and communications.
\n\nFind out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.
\n\nYou should:
\n\nThe monsoon season in India usually runs from June to November. Monsoon rains can cause:
\n\nTropical cyclones are a risk in India, particularly in:
\n\nTropical cyclones can cause:
\n\nSeveral parts of India lie on highly active fault zones, including areas of the north and north-east. The most active are along the length of the Himalayas. Tremors are common in these regions and can cause landslides. Limited emergency response vehicles, equipment and medical facilities could increase an earthquake’s impact.
\n\nThe US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.
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