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Date: 23 January 2024

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Introduction

A Student visa is granted to individuals providing evidence of admission to a full-time course in a recognized educational institution in India. This encompasses various categories, including school education, higher education, provisional student visas for short-term courses, and those participating in the Student Exchange Program.

ADDITIONAL ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

  • Studies in Yoga, Vedic culture, Indian systems of music and dance, and Buddhist studies.
  • Theological studies and for missionary students.
  • For admission to medical or para-medical courses, a letter of approval or a “No Objection Certificate” from the Ministry of Health is required.

THEOLOGICAL STUDIES

A student visa is granted for the course duration or up to one year, whichever is less, for theological studies at specific universities and institutions.

RESEARCH SCHOLARS

Research scholars, visiting research faculty, and those on bilateral exchange programs must provide a detailed synopsis, research subject, places to be visited, recommendation/support letters, and an original invitation letter from the Indian institute.

RESEARCH VISA FOR OCI CARDHOLDERS

OCI card holders undertaking research must apply for special permission on www.ociservices.gov.in.

INTERNSHIP (STUDENT VISA)

  • Granted for internships in Indian companies, educational institutions, and NGOs, including those under the French VIE program.
  • Conditions include pursuing internships at any time during the study or immediately after graduation/post-graduation with a maximum period of one year each time.
  • Minimum remuneration for company internships is Rs. 3.60 lakhs per annum.
  • No issuance for internships in specific sectors (e.g., Defense, Space, Telecom).
  • Registration with FRRO/FRO is mandatory for stays exceeding 180 days.
  • No immediate employment allowed post-internship; conversion to other visas is not permitted.

IMPORTANT NOTES

  • Student Visas won’t be issued if sponsored by franchise educational institutes, off-campus centers, or those offering courses without statutory sanction.
  • Student Visas exclude short-term courses that are not recognized.
  • Lists of recognized institutions are available on ugc.ac.in, and the All-India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) website www.aicte-india.org

CONCLUSION

The Indian Student Visa caters to a diverse range of educational pursuits, encompassing school and higher education, short-term courses, and specialized programs like yoga or theological studies. Additional eligibility criteria exist for medical courses and research scholars, emphasizing the need for thorough documentation. Internships are permitted under specific conditions, with mandatory registration for extended stays. However, strict guidelines prohibit visas for unrecognized institutions or certain sectors. Clear distinctions and comprehensive information on recognized institutions ensure a streamlined application process. Aspiring students must adhere to these guidelines to secure a successful and compliant stay, contributing to India’s vibrant academic landscape.

Additionally, individuals working in non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in India may obtain an Employment Visa, provided they receive a minimum monthly salary of 10,000 INR.

Applicants for work visas in India are presented with the choice between a Single-Entry Visa and a Multiple Entry Visa. The latter permits individuals to depart and re-enter India during their stay, facilitating flexibility for both work-related and personal obligations.

Moreover, the work visa application process in India accommodates the option for extension, managed by the Bureau of Immigration under the Ministry of Home Affairs. This allows individuals to prolong their stay in the country, subject to the necessary procedures and approvals.

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