India has introduced the e-student visa and the e-student-x visa to attract international students to its educational institutions. The e-student visa is for students enrolling in undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, and other formal programs in India. The e-student-x visa is designed for dependents of students holding an e-student visa. This move is part of the government’s plan to make India a prominent destination for international education.
Streamlined Application Process
Students can apply for these visas online through the Indian visa portal. To ensure authenticity, applicants must provide their unique SII ID obtained from the Study in India portal. The SII portal is the official platform managed by the Ministry of Education to simplify the admission and visa application processes for international students.
What the SII Portal Offers
The Study in India portal supports admissions to 600 institutions offering over 800 courses. These include engineering, management, agriculture, sciences, arts, law, paramedical sciences, and niche programs such as Buddhist Studies and Yoga. Students can register on the portal with basic details, create an account, and use their SII ID to track applications, apply for visas, and manage other educational formalities.
Visa Duration and Benefits
The e-student visa is valid for up to five years, depending on the course duration, and students can apply for an extension if required. The e-student-x visa allows families of students to stay with them, providing essential support during their studies.
India’s Global Education Vision
By launching these specialized visas, India is reinforcing its commitment to becoming a global education leader. The initiative simplifies the journey for international students, ensuring access to diverse academic opportunities. With robust infrastructure and a wide range of programs, India is set to attract talent from around the world.
This initiative not only enhances India’s global academic appeal but also fosters cultural and educational exchanges, paving the way for a more inclusive future.
