eVisa India for UK citizens traveling to Goa requires an online application submitted 4 to 120 days before arrival. UK passport holders need a passport valid for at least 6 months, a digital photo, and a passport scan. The e-Tourist Visa (eTV) is the standard option, costing from approximately $10. Both Dabolim (GOI) and Mopa (GOX) airports in Goa accept eVisa entry. Processing typically takes 3 to 5 working days.
Last updated: September 2026. This informational guide is based on requirements published by the Bureau of Immigration, Ministry of Home Affairs (indianvisaonline.gov.in).
Do UK Citizens Need an eVisa for India and Which Type to Choose
UK passport holders must secure an Indian eVisa before departure, as visa on arrival is not available for British nationals. Visa on arrival is restricted to citizens of Japan, South Korea, and the UAE. The e-Tourist Visa (eTV) is the standard Indian eVisa for UK citizens visiting Goa and other leisure destinations. UK citizens can select from three e-Tourist Visa durations: 30-day double-entry, 1-year multiple-entry, or 5-year multiple-entry. Each e-Tourist Visa option permits entry through authorised airports including Goa’s Dabolim (GOI) and Mopa (GOX).
| Visa Type | Purpose | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| e-Tourist Visa (eTV) | Tourism and leisure | Goa, Mumbai, Delhi, Kerala, Bangalore trips |
| e-Business Visa | Business meetings, trade, recruitment | Commercial travel |
| e-Medical Visa | Medical treatment at recognised Indian hospitals | Health tourism |
Passport Requirements and Step-by-Step eVisa Application
The passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival, with 2 blank pages minimum. The Indian eVisa application requires 7 steps on indianvisaonline.gov.in, submitted between 4 and 120 days before arrival:
Create an account on indianvisaonline.gov.in and start a new application
Complete the personal form
Name, date of birth, nationality, passport data
Upload a digital photo
Square JPEG, plain white background, 10 KB to 1 MB, face covering 50 to 70% of frame
Upload the passport biographical page
As an unencrypted PDF
Enter travel details and select port of entry
Goa Dabolim (GOI) or Mopa (GOX)
Pay the Indian eVisa fee
By credit or debit card
Save the reference number and track your eVisa application status
eVisa Fees, Processing Time, and Duration of Stay
| Visa Category | Government Fee (USD) | Est. Fee (GBP) | Entries | Max Stay per Visit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30-day e-Tourist Visa | $10 to $25 (seasonal) | ~£8 to £20 | Double | 30 days |
| 1-year e-Tourist Visa | ~$40 | ~£32 | Multiple | 90 days |
| 5-year e-Tourist Visa | ~$80 | ~£64 | Multiple | 180 days |
The 30-day fee is lower from April to June and higher from July to March. The Government of India does not authorise any agent or intermediary to charge additional eVisa fees. Third-party services such as sherpa° list fees of $609.52, which is an agent service fee, not the government consular fee. CIBTvisas similarly charges separate service fees and is not affiliated with any government body.
- Standard processing: 3 to 5 working days
- Urgent processing: up to 72 hours
- Application window: 4 to 120 days before arrival
The Indian eVisa cannot be extended. Plan your return flight to avoid overstay penalties which can result in fines or a ban on future travel.
Authorized eVisa Entry Airports and Immigration Documents
Dabolim (GOI) and Manohar International Airport at Mopa (GOX) are the two authorized eVisa entry points in Goa. Other authorised eVisa entry airports include Delhi (DEL), Mumbai (BOM), Bengaluru (BLR), Chennai (MAA), Kolkata (CCU), Hyderabad (HYD), and Kochi (COK). The eVisa India for UK citizens traveling to Goa does not permit land border entry.
| Airport | IATA | Location | eVisa Entry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dabolim | GOI | South Goa | Yes |
| Manohar International (Mopa) | GOX | North Goa | Yes |
At Indian immigration, UK citizens are required to present:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months with at least 2 blank pages
- eVisa approval letter (ETA) with unique reference number
- Confirmed return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of sufficient financial means for the stay
- e-Arrival Card, submitted within 72 hours before arrival via indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival, boi.gov.in, or the Indian Visa Su-Swagatam Mobile App
- Self-Declaration Form (AirSuvidha), required for all passengers, filed via airsuvidha.civilaviation.gov.in before reaching immigration counters
Practical Travel Tips for UK Tourists Visiting Goa
UK tourists visiting Goa benefit from travelling during the dry season (October to March), when the Arabian Sea coast offers ideal beach weather. The monsoon (June to September) brings heavy rainfall. Carry Indian Rupees (INR) for shacks and markets; cards are accepted in tourist areas. For local transport, negotiate tuk-tuk and taxi fares in advance. In our experience testing the Indian eVisa process via indianvisaonline.gov.in, preparing documents in advance significantly reduces delays. Check FCDO travel advice for India for latest health, safety, and entry guidance. Keep your Indian eVisa reference number accessible throughout your trip. Note: e-OCI (Electronic Overseas Citizen of India), launching June 2026, will allow eligible holders to travel without a separate visa.
FAQ: Indian eVisa for UK Citizens Traveling to Goa
How long does the Indian eVisa take to process for UK citizens?
Standard processing takes 3 to 5 working days. Urgent processing may complete within 72 hours. Apply via indianvisaonline.gov.in no later than 4 days before arrival, up to 120 days in advance.
Can UK citizens get a visa on arrival for India?
No. UK passport holders must obtain an e-Tourist Visa (eTV) or regular visa before travelling. Visa on arrival is available only to Japan, South Korea, and UAE citizens.
How much does an Indian eVisa cost for UK citizens in 2026?
Government consular fees range from approximately $10 (30-day, off-season) to $80 (5-year visa). Always apply via indianvisaonline.gov.in to avoid agent markups.
Which airports in Goa accept eVisa entry?
Both Dabolim Airport (GOI) in South Goa and Manohar International Airport at Mopa (GOX) in North Goa accept eVisa entry. Land border entry is not permitted.
Can I extend my eVisa while in India?
No. The Indian eVisa cannot be extended. You must leave India before your permitted duration of stay expires (30, 90, or 180 days depending on visa type).
What documents do I need at Indian immigration besides my eVisa?
Passport (valid 6+ months, 2 blank pages), eVisa approval letter (ETA), return or onward ticket, proof of sufficient funds, e-Arrival Card, and AirSuvidha Self-Declaration Form.
Is it safe to use a third-party agent to apply for an Indian eVisa?
No. The Government of India does not authorise any agent. For example, sherpa° charges $609.52, an agent markup, not the official fee. Always apply via indianvisaonline.gov.in.
How do I check the status of my Indian eVisa application?
Use your passport number and application ID on indianvisaonline.gov.in to check your eVisa application status online.
Do children need a separate eVisa to travel to India?
Yes. Every traveller, including children and infants, requires an individual eVisa application and approved Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). No group or family visa option exists.
What is the best time to visit Goa from the UK?
The dry season from October to March offers the best weather for beach holidays along the Arabian Sea. The monsoon (June to September) brings heavy rainfall.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify current requirements on indianvisaonline.gov.in before travel.
