General Information on S-4 (Research) Visa
The S-4 (Research Visa) is granted to foreign academicians, scholars, professors, and research professionals who intend to conduct research work, academic collaboration, or participate in research-based exchange programs in India. This visa facilitates long-term academic and cultural engagement between foreign nationals and Indian institutions.
The visa may be granted for up to 3 years or for the duration of the research project, whichever is shorter.
Who Can Apply for a S-4 (Research) Visa?
You are eligible to apply for a Research Visa if you are:
- A professor, academician, or scholar affiliated with a recognized university or research institution.
- A research fellow joining a collaborative academic or research project in India.
- An individual invited to participate in field-based studies (botanical, anthropological, scientific, archaeological, etc.).
- A Ph.D. candidate looking to pursue or collaborate on research as part of an academic program.
Note:
Individuals intending to pursue regular full-time studies in India should apply for a Student Visa, not a Research Visa.
Key Guidelines
- The visa is valid for a maximum of 3 years or the duration of the research, whichever is less.
- FRRO/FRO registration is mandatory within 14 days of arrival if the stay exceeds 180 days.
- The research project must be pre-approved by the concerned authorities in India.
- Applicants must submit:
- A detailed synopsis of their research project
- A letter of admission or invitation from a recognized Indian institution
- Proof of academic credentials and previous research experience
- Visa is non-convertible and non-extendable beyond the approved duration unless authorized by the Indian authorities.
- A security clearance from the Government of India may be required in sensitive research areas.
- The passport must be:
- Valid for at least 6 months
- In good condition with at least 3 blank pages
How To Apply
- Create an Account: Register on the Du Digital Indian Consular Application Centre (ICAC) website.
Click here to register. - Fill Out the Government Application Form: Click here to access the form.
- Book an Appointment: Schedule your visit to Du Digital ICAC by choosing a suitable date and time.
Click here to book your appointment - Prepare Your Documents: Carry your passport, photographs, and all supporting documents as listed in the Documents Checklist section.
- Visit Du Digital ICAC: Visit the designated ICAC. The address and location will be mentioned in your appointment letter. Ensure you arrive 15 minutes before your appointment time.
- Submit Your Application & Pay Fees: Submit your documents and pay the applicable fees at ICAC. Refer to the Fee Details section for exact charges.
- Enroll for Biometrics (if required): Complete biometric enrollment if applicable.
- Application Submission Complete: You’ve successfully submitted your visa application.
- Track Your Application: Monitor your application’s status online.
Click here to track your application
S-4 (Research) Visa Requirements
- Duly filled Visa Application Form
- Photo 2 inch x 2 inch (white background) – 2 photos
- Copy of passport first page – 2 copies
- Copy of old passport first page and old India visa – 1 copy (if available)
- Copy of ID card – 1 set
- Copy of house registration of applicant – 1 copy
- Copy of identity card of monk/nun – 1 set
- Copy of birth certificate (translated and certified by the Translation Centre with Thai language copy)
- Copy of name change documents (if any), translated and certified by the Translation Centre with Thai language copy
- Original documents from the Indian College:
- Research Project Approval Form
- Bonafide Certificate
- University Affiliation Letter
- Ph.D. Joining Report
- Library card (if available)
- Please bring all documents with the staff
- Research Itinerary (Specify topics, timeline, and storage location in detail – not included in synopsis)
- Synopsis
- Educational Certificates
- Transcript of Master’s Degree (in English)
- Sponsor Letter
- Sponsor’s Bank Statement (savings account – last 6 months, updated within 3 working days before submission)
- If there is a name change for father, mother, or applicant, the name change documents must be translated and certified by the Translation Centre with Thai language copy
- For relatives as sponsor – additional documents required:
- Translated house registration of parents/relatives with Thai and English versions certified by Translation Centre
- Marriage certificate of sponsor (translated and certified with Thai version)
- Name change documents for applicant/parents/sponsor (translated and certified with Thai version)
- Flight reservation to India / Address document / PR copy (if any)
- All documents must be copied and signed by the applicant on every page – 1 set
- For old researchers / Researchers of Bihar University (MAKOT) – documents must be sent to the Embassy for verification. Interview may follow. Additional documents may be required.
- Visa approval timeline depends on the Embassy’s decision post interview and document verification
Fees Details
| Sub Service Type | CONSULAR FEE (฿) | ICWF FEE (฿) | SERVICE FEE (฿) | TOTAL FEES (฿) |
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the maximum validity of a S-4 (Research) Visa?
The visa can be granted for up to 3 years or the duration of the research project, whichever is shorter. - Can I extend my S-4 (Research) Visa?
In most cases, the visa is not extendable. Any extension must be justified and approved by the concerned Indian authorities. - Do I need FRRO registration?
Yes, if your visa is for more than 180 days, FRRO/FRO registration within 14 days of arrival is mandatory. - Can I pursue a Ph.D. on this visa?
Yes, if you are conducting independent or collaborative doctoral research with a recognized Indian institution. - What kind of institutions can sponsor a S-4 (Research) Visa?
- Government-approved universities
- Accredited colleges and research institutes
- Think tanks, museums, archives, and field research organizations
- Is this visa suitable for field research like anthropology or botany?
Yes, but you may require prior approval or a special permit if working in sensitive or restricted areas. - Can I convert this visa into a work or employment visa?
No. The S-4 (Research) Visa is non-convertible to any other visa category during your stay in India. - Do I need security clearance for my research?
Only for projects in sensitive areas or subjects. The Indian Embassy/Consulate may advise you to seek prior approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs. - Where can I apply for a S-4 (Research) Visa?
You must apply through the DU Digital Global Indian Consular Application Centre (ICAC) assigned to your jurisdiction. Prior appointment is mandatory.
