Emergencies don’t wait, and when urgent situations arise, British nationals may need to travel to India on short notice. If you’re in this situation, applying for an emergency visa to India for British passport holders is possible — but the process must be followed carefully and quickly. This guide explains how to apply, what documents you need, and where to go for support in the UK.
For general travel planning advice, see our guide on Flying from a UK Airport in 2025, which includes culturally relevant tips for Desi travellers.
Who Can Apply for an Emergency Visa?
Emergency visas are granted in situations involving:
- Serious illness or death of a close family member in India
- Urgent medical treatment (for self or to accompany a patient)
- Legal emergencies
- Other humanitarian reasons (reviewed case by case)
Tourism, business, or casual travel do not qualify for emergency visa processing. You must provide supporting evidence for the emergency nature of your visit.
The emergency visa to India for British passport holders is designed specifically for situations like the serious illness or death of a family member, urgent medical needs, or other humanitarian crises. Unlike standard visas, this type requires special handling and evidence, and is usually issued on compassionate grounds.
Want to stay updated on Indian government changes affecting NRIs? Check out our coverage of the Registration Bill 2025 and how it impacts British citizens of Indian origin.
Where to Apply: The Indian High Commission or VFS Global
For UK residents, emergency visa services are facilitated by VFS Global on behalf of the High Commission of India. These services are available in London, Birmingham, and Edinburgh, with appointments strictly by email for emergency cases.
How to Start the Process
- Contact the VFS Emergency Team Email the relevant VFS center (based on your location) with:
- Subject: “Emergency Visa Request – [Your Full Name]”
- Your full name, passport number, and contact number
- Nature of emergency (brief explanation)
- Proof of emergency (hospital letter, death certificate, etc.)
- Preferred date of travel
- Scanned copy of your passport and UK visa/residency proof
You’ll need to complete the official Indian Visa Application Form and provide required documents, including proof of the emergency such as a hospital note or death certificate.
- Wait for Clearance If your case qualifies, VFS will reply with further instructions, including a link to complete the visa application form and a time for an in-person appointment (usually within 24–48 hours).
- In-Person Appointment and Biometrics You must attend your appointment in person to provide biometrics and submit documents.
Required Documents
- Valid British passport (with at least 6 months validity)
- Proof of emergency (hospital note, death certificate, etc.)
- Passport-size photographs (as per Indian visa specifications)
- Visa application form (completed online and printed)
- Proof of UK residency (BRP, utility bill, etc.)
- Visa fee (varies; payable at the center)
Processing Time
Emergency visas are typically processed within 24 to 48 hours after your biometric appointment. Same-day visas are sometimes possible depending on the urgency and time of submission.
Validity and Restrictions
- Emergency visas are single-entry only
- Validity is usually for 30 days
- Entry must occur within the validity period
- You must register with the FRRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office) if you overstay or require extensions
What If You Already Have a Tourist Visa?
If you hold a tourist visa but need to travel for emergency purposes, you do not need a new visa unless your existing visa has expired. However, be ready to show supporting documents for your reason for travel at immigration in both the UK and India.
- Emergency services are not available on public holidays unless truly exceptional
- Always check the official VFS India UK website for the latest information
- Be respectful and concise when emailing the emergency team — your tone and clarity matter
- Book flexible or refundable flights where possible until your visa is confirmed
In times of distress, the Indian High Commission and VFS Global do accommodate urgent travel needs, but it’s crucial to provide clear evidence and follow the process precisely. With the right documentation and a genuine reason, you can often receive your visa in as little as one working day.
If you’re a British national needing to travel to India for emergency reasons, start by contacting the VFS emergency email line — they are your fastest route to resolution. Getting an emergency visa to India for British passport holders is straightforward if you follow the right process and provide proper documentation. Whether it’s for a loved one’s medical emergency or a critical family matter, the system is built to support urgent travel needs.
