Republic of India · study
India Student Visa
By Sam Parks · Last reviewed:
Visa for foreign nationals pursuing full-time study or internships at recognised institutions in India.
- Processing time
- Indicative only. Apply through an Indian mission or the Indian Visa Online portal; confirm current timelines on the official page.
- Government fees
- Indicative only. Fees vary by nationality and duration; refer to the official Indian Visa Online portal.
- Typical duration
- For the duration of the course, typically up to five years, renewable in India.
- Sponsorship required
- Yes
- Leads to permanent residency
- No
Overview
The Student (S) Visa is granted to foreign nationals admitted to a recognised educational institution in India for regular, full-time study. The category also covers foreign nationals coming to pursue internships in Indian companies, educational institutions, NGOs, foreign missions and foreign government organisations under the S-6 sub-category. Students must complete FRRO/FRO registration where required.
Eligibility
Typical criteria
- ✓Applicant is admitted to a recognised educational institution in India for full-time study.Bureau of Immigration / Ministry of Home Affairs (India) ↗
- ✓The course or programme is genuine and approved.Bureau of Immigration / Ministry of Home Affairs (India) ↗
- ✓Applicant can demonstrate means to fund study and stay.Bureau of Immigration / Ministry of Home Affairs (India) ↗
- ✓Internship placements fall within the S-6 sub-category criteria.Bureau of Immigration / Ministry of Home Affairs (India) ↗
Common blockers
- !Admission to an institution that is not recognised for foreign students.Bureau of Immigration / Ministry of Home Affairs (India) ↗
- !Intending to take up employment rather than study.Bureau of Immigration / Ministry of Home Affairs (India) ↗
- !Failure to complete required FRRO/FRO registration.Bureau of Immigration / Ministry of Home Affairs (India) ↗
Typical evidence
- ·Admission or enrolment letter from the recognised institution.Bureau of Immigration / Ministry of Home Affairs (India) ↗
- ·Proof of sufficient funds for study and living costs.Bureau of Immigration / Ministry of Home Affairs (India) ↗
- ·Passport valid for the required period with blank pages.Bureau of Immigration / Ministry of Home Affairs (India) ↗
Application pathway
Secure admission
Obtain admission to a recognised Indian educational institution or a qualifying internship.
Apply for the Student Visa
Submit the application via the Indian Visa Online portal and the relevant Indian mission.
Travel to India
Enter within the visa validity carrying admission documents.
Register with the FRRO/FRO
Complete registration after arrival where the stay duration requires it.
Official application links
Where to actually go next
These are the official pages to use for this route. Open them before preparing documents: the forms, fees, appointment systems, and sponsor steps can change without warning.
- Official guidanceApplicant + sponsorUse official India Student Visa route page ↗
Use this official page to confirm requirements and follow the government filing route for India Student Visa.
Bureau of Immigration / Ministry of Home Affairs (India) · verified
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Frequently asked questions
Does the India Student Visa cover internships?+
Yes. Foreign nationals pursuing internships in Indian companies, educational institutions, NGOs, foreign missions or foreign government organisations are required to obtain a Student (S-6) Visa.
Can I work part-time on an India Student Visa?+
The Student Visa is granted for study, not employment. Taking up paid work generally requires a separate, appropriate visa; check the current rules before relying on any work entitlement.
Need tailored advice?
We do not provide legal advice. For an application that depends on your exact circumstances, consult a regulator-listed immigration advisor.
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