To make higher education in India more accessible to international students, the country has launched two new e-visa categories: the ‘e-student visa’ and the ‘e-student-x visa.’
This initiative is designed to streamline the admission and visa application process for international students looking to study at Indian academic institutions. These digital visas mark a significant step towards India’s goal of becoming a global education hub.
The e-student visa is exclusively available to eligible international students who have secured admission through the Study in India (SII) portal, an online platform dedicated to international student admissions to Indian universities.
The e-student-x visa is introduced for dependents of e-student visa holders, ensuring that students can bring their families along during their studies in India.
Both visa types require applicants to apply via the Indian e-visa platform. To ensure a seamless verification process, applicants must have a unique SII ID generated upon registering on the SII portal. The SII ID is mandatory for all students applying to an Indian institution.
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Key Feature |
Explanation |
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Open to foreign nationals who have secured admission to recognised institutions offering undergraduate, postgraduate, PhD, or other formal programs. |
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The visa is valid for up to five years, with extensions available from within India. |
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Holders can enter India through any authorised immigration check post. |
The SII portal is a flagship initiative by the Indian Ministry of Education designed to simplify the admission process for international students. It connects applicants with over 600 accredited institutions offering more than 8,000 courses across diverse fields, such as:
Students must register on the SII portal and obtain a unique SII ID to begin their application process. This ID serves as a crucial identifier throughout the admission and visa process.
For international students aspiring to study in India, here is a step-by-step guide:
Students can only apply for a visa after receiving an admission offer from an institution listed on the SII portal.
India has diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history. For international students studying in India, exploring the country offers a chance to experience its vibrant traditions and unique destinations. Here are five must-visit places that showcase India’s beauty and heritage:
Located in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, Agra is home to the world-famous Taj Mahal, a symbol of love and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, this stunning white marble mausoleum attracts visitors worldwide.
In addition to the Taj Mahal, Agra is known for Agra Fort, Mehtab Bagh, and the bustling Sadar Bazaar, where students can experience local food and handicrafts.
Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, blends history, architecture, and vibrant culture. Known as the Pink City, it is famous for its majestic forts and palaces, including Amber Fort, City Palace, and Hawa Mahal.
Students can explore colourful markets, try authentic Rajasthani cuisine, and even experience an elephant ride at Amber Fort. Jaipur is also part of India’s famous Golden Triangle, making it an excellent travel destination.
Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, is an ideal destination for students seeking adventure and spirituality. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, it is known for its serene environment, yoga retreats, and meditation centres.
It is also a hub for adventure sports, including river rafting on the Ganges, bungee jumping, and trekking. The Laxman Jhula and Triveni Ghat are popular spots where visitors can experience the city's spiritual essence.
If students are looking for a relaxing getaway, Goa is the ultimate beach destination. Located along the Arabian Sea, it is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and water sports.
Visitors can unwind at Baga Beach, explore the historic churches of Old Goa, or try scuba diving and jet skiing. Goa is also famous for its Portuguese-influenced architecture, seafood delicacies, and annual festivals like the Goa Carnival.
For those interested in history and spirituality, Varanasi is a must-visit. Situated on the banks of the River Ganges, Varanasi is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and is regarded as the spiritual capital of India.
Students can explore the famous ghats, witness the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, and visit ancient temples like Kashi Vishwanath. The city is also known for its silk-weaving industry and offers a chance to experience traditional Indian culture up close.
With this new initiative, India is positioning itself as a preferred destination for international students seeking high-quality education at affordable costs. Integrating digital visa processing with the SII portal enhances transparency and simplifies the process, making India an even more attractive choice for global learners.
This initiative is expected to boost international student enrolment and strengthen academic and cultural exchanges between India and other countries. For aspiring students, the process is now more efficient, transparent, and accessible than ever before.
Step1: Complete the online application by providing your passport details.
Step2: Submit payment online using a credit card.
Step3: Monitor your email for confirmation of payment and receipt of your eVisa, which will be sent electronically.
