In a major step to attract international students, India has introduced two special e-visas categories: the e-student visa and e-student-x visa, aimed at facilitating higher education opportunities in the country. Announced by the Ministry of Home Affairs, these visas are exclusively linked to the government’s Study in India (SII) portal, which simplifies the admission process for foreign students aspiring to study in India.
Key Features of the E-Visas
The e-student visa is intended for eligible international students registered on the SII portal, while the e-student-x visa is available for dependents of e-student visa holders. Applicants are required to apply for admission to Indian educational institutions through the Study in India portal, which verifies the authenticity of the application using a unique SII ID. Once students secure admission offers from any of the 600+ SII partner institutions, they can apply for the e-visa separately at indianvisaonline.gov.in.
Student visas are typically issued for up to five years, depending on the course duration, and can be extended while staying in India. Visa holders may also enter the country through any designated immigration check post.
Courses and Institutions
India offers a wide range of academic opportunities through the Study in India program, which includes over 8,000 courses across disciplines such as engineering, management, agriculture, sciences, arts, humanities, commerce, law, paramedical sciences, and niche areas like Yoga and Buddhist studies. Students can choose programs at various levels, including undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, and certification-based courses.
The SII initiative, a flagship project of the Ministry of Education, partners with premier Indian institutions to provide flexibility and quality education to international students. Its streamlined online application process makes it easier for students to apply, track their applications, and finalise their admission and visa processes.
Application Process
To begin, students must register on the SII portal by providing basic details such as name, country, date of birth, mobile number, and email ID. Each applicant is issued a unique SII ID, which is essential for tracking the progress of applications for courses, colleges, and visas. Officials emphasized that possessing an SII ID is mandatory to access educational opportunities in India, as it is integral to the entire admission and visa process.
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A Step Towards Globalisation
The introduction of e-student visas marks a significant move to position India as a global hub for education. By streamlining visa procedures and expanding the accessibility of quality education, the initiative aims to attract students worldwide and foster cultural and academic exchange on a larger scale.
