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3 ways to enter

India visas

India student visa

India offers a regular student visa and an online student visa. A separate online route is available for Afghan nationals.

Ways to get a India student visa

  1. Student visa through a consulate

    Visa needed

    Students with proof of admission to an Indian institution.

    Valid for
    The course period or 5 years.
    Entries
    Multiple entries.
    Fee
    Costs vary by consulate and region. Service providers may charge an extra fee.
    1. Prepare the application and proof of admission.
    2. Submit it to an Indian consulate in person or by post, or through a designated provider where available.

  2. Student e-Visa

    eVisa

    Eligible e-Visa applicants coming to study. China's listed online route is production investment.

    Valid for
    1 year.
    Entries
    Multiple entries.

    Passports that qualify (126)

    1. Check that your nationality and arrival point qualify.
    2. Apply online between 4 and 120 days before arrival.
    Apply on the official website

  3. Separate online student visa for Afghan nationals

    eVisa

    Afghan nationals applying for a student visa through the separate online module.

    Entries
    Multiple entries.

    Passports that qualify (1)

Who needs it

Travellers coming to study can apply for a student visa.

How to apply

  1. Prepare your application and proof of admission.
  2. Submit it to an Indian consulate in person or by post, or through a designated provider where available.

What to bring

  • Proof of admission to an Indian institution.

Good to know

  • The regular student visa can be extended in India.
  • Student e-Visas and visas for student dependants were introduced in January 2025.

Questions

Do I need a student visa for India?

Travellers coming to study can apply for a student visa.

What are the ways to get a student visa for India?

There are 3 options: Student visa through a consulate (a visa from an embassy); Student e-Visa (an online visa); Separate online student visa for Afghan nationals (an online visa).

Can I apply online for India?

Yes: Student e-Visa and Separate online student visa for Afghan nationals. Eligible e-Visa applicants coming to study. China's listed online route is production investment.

How much does a India student visa cost?

Consular costs vary by location.

How long is a India student visa valid?

The course period or 5 years for a regular student visa. Entries: Multiple entries..

What documents do I need for a India student visa?

Proof of admission to an Indian institution..

How do I apply for a India student visa?

1. 1. Prepare your application and proof of admission. 2. 2. Submit it to an Indian consulate in person or by post, or through a designated provider where available.

Does my passport change whether I need a student visa for India?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the India visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a student visa for India be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest India student visa rules?

On India's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

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