New e-Student Visas Allow International Students to Pursue Higher Education in India

Study in India Portal Simplifies Admission and Visa Process for Global Students

The Study in India (SII) portal, launched by the Ministry of Education, offers over 8,000 courses across more than 600 partner institutions in fields like engineering, management, agriculture, sciences, arts, law, and specialized areas like Buddhist Studies and Yoga. Programs are available at undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, and certification levels, enabling students to choose courses that match their interests at top Indian institutions. The Ministry of Home Affairs announced two special category visas for international students wishing to pursue higher education in India. The 'e-student visa' and 'e-student-x visa' require students to use the government's 'Study in India' (SII) portal. Eligible international students can access the ‘e-student visa’ facility upon registering on the SII portal, while their dependents can apply for the ‘e-student-x visa’.

The application process for the Study in India (SII) portal is conducted online. Students can begin by clicking the "Register Now" tab and providing essential details, such as their name, country, date of birth, mobile number, and email ID. Each student is required to obtain a unique SII ID, which functions as their gateway to access their dashboard, track admission and visa processes, and manage their higher education journey in India. Officials clarified that without an SII ID, students will not be able to pursue studies or move to India.

The SII portal streamlines the admission process for foreign students applying for long-term or short-term courses in India. Visa applications must be submitted through the portal at indianvisaonline.gov.in and verified with the SII ID. Officials stressed that students can apply for visas only after receiving an admission offer from a partner institution listed on the SII portal. Foreign nationals admitted to full-time undergraduate, postgraduate, PhD, or other formal programs in India are eligible for e-student visas, valid for up to five years and extendable. Officials stated that valid visa holders can enter India through any immigration check post. This initiative by the government is going to simplify the application process for students.

Editor's Note:

To boost international student enrollment, the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Education have introduced new visa categories and a streamlined application process for students wishing to pursue higher education in India. The 'Study in India' (SII) portal facilitates easy access to a wide range of academic programs and ensures that students and their dependents can apply for appropriate visas through a centralized system. 
This initiative is expected to enhance the global appeal of Indian institutions and attract students from around the world.

Skoobuzz appreciates this forward-thinking step, which will undoubtedly make India a more accessible and attractive destination for international students.