General Information on Student Visa

The Student Visa is granted to bona fide foreign students intending to pursue full-time, on-campus academic programs at recognized institutions in India. It also applies to those enrolling in traditional studies such as Yoga, Vedic culture, Indian music/dance, or Buddhist studies, as well as research scholars, exchange students, and interns under structured internship programs.

Visa validity is typically aligned with the duration of the academic course, for up to 5 years, and may include multiple entries.

Note:
Visa holders must strictly follow the declared purpose of visit. Any misuse may result in legal action or deportation. 

Who Can Apply for a Student Visa?

• Students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, or PhD degrees in India.
• Scholars attending academic exchange programs with recognized institutions.
• Applicants enrolling in short-term structured courses in Yoga, music, dance, Vedic studies, or similar disciplines.
• Research scholars, visiting faculty, and academic researchers on approved projects.
• Interns (S-6) joining Indian companies, educational institutions, NGOs, or diplomatic missions.
• Foreign professors or scholars invited as visiting faculty.
• Members of approved academic expeditions in disciplines such as science, anthropology, and botany.

Student Visa Subcategories:

• S-1: Higher education, student exchange, short-term academic programs
• S-2: School-level education
• S-3: Yoga, Vedic culture, Indian classical music/dance, Buddhist studies
• S-4: Theological or missionary students
• S-5: Research scholars, visiting research faculty, expedition members
• S-6: Internship in Indian institutions, companies, NGOs, foreign missions
• S-1X / S-3X / S-5X: For dependents of S-1, S-3, and S-5 visa holders

Key Guidelines:

• Passport validity of at least 6 months with 3 blank pages is mandatory.
• Visa validity begins from the date of issue, not from your intended travel date.
• Biometrics (fingerprint & facial photo) are required for all long-term visas.
• Internships must comply with remuneration and tax rules:
• Minimum INR 3,60,000/year if interning with Indian companies
• No salary threshold for NGOs or educational institutions
• Internships must begin within 2 years of graduation.
• Under no circumstances can the intern seek employment immediately after completing the internship.

Document Checklist

Checklist & Application Forms

Before applying, please refer to the relevant checklist for your visa category. The checklist outlines the specific forms and supporting documents required for your application. In some cases, multiple forms may be needed.

Instructions:

• A separate application form must be completed for each individual applicant
• Refer to the checklist to ensure all required documents are prepared and attached
• All forms must be accurately filled and signed where applicable
  

Important Documents:

• Student Visa Checklist
• Student (Research) Visa Checklist
• Student (Internship) Visa Checklist
• Common Documents for Indian Visa
• Application Guidelines & Upload List
• Application Form for Bangladeshi Nationals
• Photograph Requirements

Additional Requirements for Chinese Passport Holders:

All applicants holding a Chinese passport must also submit:

• A copy of their E-ticket to India
• A bank balance certificate
  These are in addition to the documents listed in the general checklist above.

Fees Details

• Other nationals may refer to the attached PDF for details.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is eligible for a Student Visa to India?
   Students accepted into full-time programs at recognized Indian institutions, interns, researchers, and those attending structured courses or cultural studies programs.
2. Can I pursue short courses on a Student Visa?
   Yes, if the course is structured, on-campus, and issued by a recognized institution (e.g., yoga, music, or traditional arts) — a Student Visa is applicable.
3. Do I need to register with Indian authorities upon arrival?
   Yes, if your stay exceeds 180 days, you must register with the FRRO/FRO within 14 days of arrival in India.
4. Can I work during or after completing my studies on a Student Visa?
   No. Employment is not permitted on a Student Visa. Even after internships, employment is not allowed without switching to an appropriate visa type (like Employment Visa).
5. Is the Student Visa extendable?
   The visa is usually valid for the course duration. Extensions must be processed via the local FRRO in India, subject to institutional confirmation and visa rules.
6. What is the S-6 visa and who can apply for it?
   The S-6 Visa is granted for internships at Indian companies, educational institutions, NGOs, or diplomatic missions. Internships must commence within 2 years of graduation, and salary rules apply for corporate internships.
7. Do dependents of students need a separate visa?
   Yes. Dependents must apply under subcategories like S-1X, S-3X, or S-5X, depending on the main applicant’s visa category.
8. Can I visit restricted or protected areas in India on a Student Visa?
   No, not without prior approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs. Special permits are required for such regions.
9. What if I provide incorrect or incomplete information?
   Providing incorrect or suppressed information can lead to visa rejection, delays, or a ban from applying in the future.
10. Do I need an appointment to submit my visa application?
    Yes. All applications must be submitted at the designated Indian Consular Application Centre (ICAC) with a prior appointment. Walk-ins are not accepted.