India Passport Rules for UK Travellers
Quick answer: For India, your passport must expire at least 6 months after the date you arrive and have at least 2 blank pages. British citizens need a visa (or e-visa) unless they hold an OCI card, and must complete an e-arrival card before landing.
India travel requirements at a glance
Expiry date at least 6 months after the date you arrive.
At least 2 blank pages.
Required unless you are an OCI cardholder. E-visas are available.
Complete online up to 72 hours before you arrive.
Official source: GOV.UK India entry requirements.
Passport rules: quick summary
- India uses a 6-month passport validity rule counted from your arrival date.
- You must get a visa or e-visa before you travel unless you hold an OCI card.
- Check your passport is stamped on arrival.
- If you renew your passport while in India, you may need an exit permit before you can leave.
Do you need 6 months on your passport for India?
Yes. GOV.UK says your passport must have an expiry date at least 6 months after the date you arrive in India, and at least 2 blank pages.
Visas for India
You must have a visa to visit India unless you are an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholder. You can apply for a regular visa or an e-visa before you travel.
Only use the official Indian government e-visa website. Unofficial sites charge extra fees.
Arrival forms and passport stamps
All foreign nationals must complete an e-arrival card online before reaching immigration, up to 72 hours before arrival.
Check your passport is stamped when you arrive. If you leave on a passport without an entry stamp, for example a newly issued passport or an emergency travel document, you must apply for an exit permit, which can take 5 to 15 working days.
Check your passport now
Use our free checker to see whether your passport looks valid for this trip.
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need 6 months on my passport for India?
Yes. Your passport must expire at least 6 months after the date you arrive and have at least 2 blank pages.
Do British citizens need a visa for India?
Yes, unless you hold an OCI card. You can apply for a regular visa or an e-visa.
What is the India e-arrival card?
An online arrival form that all foreign nationals must complete up to 72 hours before arriving.