British nationals travelling to India must complete the India e-Arrival Card via the Su-Swagatam portal before flying. Mandatory from 1 April 2026 for all air arrivals, this free digital registration takes about 5-10 minutes.
Do UK Citizens Need the India e-Arrival Card?
Yes. All British citizens must complete the India e-Arrival Card before any air arrival in India. The UK Government’s official India travel advice states: “Foreign nationals arriving in India must complete an e-arrival card online before reaching immigration.”
UK Citizens and Indian Visa Requirements
British nationals need either a valid Indian visa or OCI card. UK citizens can apply for:
- Indian Tourist eVisa: 30 days (double entry) or 1 year (multiple entry)
- Indian Business eVisa
- OCI Card: If eligible – provides visa-free travel but e-Arrival Card still required since October 2025
See our requirements page and e-Arrival Card vs eVisa comparison.
How UK Citizens Apply
- Visit indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival within 72 hours of your flight
- Select nationality as “United Kingdom”
- Enter UK passport number exactly as shown
- Provide purpose of visit, arrival date, Indian address
- Submit and save confirmation
Passport Requirements for UK Travellers
- At least 6 months validity from date of arrival
- At least 2 blank pages for stamps
- Must be a ‘British citizen’ passport (other British passport types have different requirements)
British Nationals of Pakistani Origin
British nationals of Pakistani origin face longer visa processing times. Secure your Indian visa well in advance. The e-Arrival Card process is the same for all UK passport holders.
OCI Cardholders with UK Nationality
UK nationals with OCI cards must complete the e-Arrival Card since 4 October 2025. See our OCI holders guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the India e-Arrival Card free for UK citizens?
Yes. Free for all nationalities including British citizens. Use only the official portal at indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival.
Do UK OCI cardholders still need the e-Arrival Card?
Yes. OCI cardholders, regardless of nationality, must complete it since 4 October 2025.
What are the 2026 India entry requirements for British nationals?
Valid passport (6+ months, 2 blank pages), valid Indian visa or OCI card, and completed India e-Arrival Card. See our India entry requirements 2026 guide.