NCI strongly recommends that students obtain the correct visa as an essential part of preparing for your studies in India. While the process is generally straightforward, students are encouraged to begin early and ensure that all documentation is complete and consistent.
Nordic Centre India and host institutions will support students wherever possible. However, visa issuance and immigration decisions rest solely with the Government of India.
As of now, students have two ways of applying for the student visa – the regular (sticker) visa application and an e-visa application.
|
Aspect |
Regular (sticker) Visa |
Online/e-Visa |
|
Where to Apply |
Indian Embassy / Mission or IVAC |
Online portal only |
|
Document Submission |
Print & submit physical documents |
Fully online submission |
|
Appointment Required |
Often yes |
No |
|
Passport Submission |
Yes (for stamping) |
Yes (upon entry at immigration if approved) |
|
Eligibility |
All categories (most flexible) |
Limited categories & durations |
|
Processing Time |
Varies by mission |
Usually quicker for eligible types |
Under the current framework for international students, the visa process is closely aligned with the Government of India’s Study in India (SII) portal, which functions as the primary platform for managing international student applications.
Students intending to pursue higher education programmes in India are required to begin by registering on the official SII portal:https://www.studyinindia.gov.in/
Following registration, students complete their academic and personal profile, browse available programmes, and submit applications to participating institutions. The portal enables institutions to review student credentials, issue offer letters, and communicate admission decisions through a unified digital system.Once a student receives and formally accepts an offer of admission, a unique SII ID is generated. This identifier plays an important role within India’s international education and immigration framework, linking the student’s academic admission with subsequent visa processing.
As reflected in the current Study in India student dashboard process, the SII ID is mandatory for Student Visa applications for higher studies in India. The SII record is used by institutions and relevant authorities to verify admission status and support immigration documentation.
Following confirmation of admission by the host institution — and completion of any institutional requirements such as fee payment where applicable — students proceed with their visa application via the Government of India’s official visa portal: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/
During the visa application stage, students are typically required to provide passport details, admission documentation, and their SII ID. It is important that information submitted across the SII portal and visa application remains accurate and consistent, particularly with respect to passport data and personal details.Upon review and approval by the competent authorities, the visa is issued in accordance with Government of India regulations.
Students who may be eligible under applicable nationality and category rules can find further information on India’s e-Visa framework here: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/
Given that visa categories, eligibility criteria, and documentation requirements may vary depending on nationality and programme type, students are encouraged to consult official government resources, their host institution, and their local Indian Mission where appropriate.
Nordic Centre India and host institutions will support students with documentation where required; however, visa issuance remains at the discretion of the Government of India.
In addition to online visa pathways, regular consular (sticker) visas continue to be issued through local Indian Embassies, High Commissions, and Consulates, often in coordination with an authorised Indian Visa Application Centre (IVAC).
This route is commonly used by students who are not eligible for an e-Visa, as well as those applying for long-term Student or Research visas. While specific procedures may vary between countries, the process generally begins with completion of the online visa application form on the Government of India’s official portal.Applicants then print and sign the form and submit it, together with their passport and supporting documentation, at the designated IVAC or Indian Mission on the scheduled appointment date.
For the Government of India’s regular visa application instructions, please click here:
https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/
Documentation requirements differ across jurisdictions, but students are typically asked to provide a valid passport, recent photographs, admission or offer letters issued by the host institution in India, and relevant financial or supporting documents. Depending on nationality and local regulations, additional documentation may be requested.
As part of the submission process, many visa application centres also conduct biometric enrolment, which may include the collection of fingerprints and a digital photograph. In some locations, applicants may additionally be asked to attend a brief interview or verification appointment.
Because visa processing timelines, documentation standards, and appointment systems vary by country, students are strongly encouraged to consult the website of their nearest Indian Embassy / Consulate / High Commission or authorised visa application centre before initiating the application.Students are also advised to begin visa formalities well in advance of their intended travel date and to ensure that all information submitted across application forms and supporting documents is accurate and consistent as processing timelines vary and may be influenced by application volumes, security clearances, and local procedures.Applicable visa fees are determined by the Government of India and the relevant Indian Mission.
Please note that visa issuance remains at the sole discretion of the Government of India.
International travellers to India are required to complete the Government of India’s e-Arrival Card (Digital Disembarkation Card) prior to travel.Effective 1 October 2025, foreign nationals and OCI card holders must submit this declaration online within 72 hours before arrival in India at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival/
The e-Arrival Card replaces the paper disembarkation form previously completed upon landing and forms part of India’s digitised immigration procedures. Students are advised to complete this requirement before departure and retain a copy or screenshot of the submission confirmation, which may be requested during check-in or upon arrival.
As entry regulations may evolve, travellers should verify requirements through official Government of India sources prior to travel.
Students arriving in India on a Student Visa valid for more than 180 days are generally required to register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO/FRO). This is done via https://indianfrro.gov.in/efrro/home
Registration is typically required within 14 days of arrival, unless specifically exempted. Visas requiring registration are normally endorsed accordingly.
The registration process is completed through the Government of India’s online e-FRRO system, where students submit their personal details, upload supporting documentation, and receive their residence permissions electronically. Host institutions usually assist students with preparing the required documents, including proof of enrolment and confirmation of residential address.
As part of India’s immigration compliance framework, students should also be aware of related accommodation reporting requirements.When residing in hotels, guest houses, hostels, or other registered accommodation providers, the property is required to submit a Form C (Foreigner Arrival Report) to the authorities.For students staying in private residences, rented apartments, or institutional housing not automatically covered by Form C submission, the relevant reporting obligations are normally managed during the FRRO registration process.For more information go to: https://indianfrro.gov.in/frro/FormC
Educational institutions admitting international students are likewise required to report student enrolment details through Form S, as prescribed by immigration regulations. More information can be found here: https://indianfrro.gov.in/frro/FormS
These reporting mechanisms form part of the broader regulatory system governing the stay of foreign nationals in India and are typically handled by the accommodation provider and host institution. Students are encouraged to cooperate fully and ensure that accurate residential and contact information is provided where required.
Upon successful FRRO registration, students are issued a Residence Permit / Police Residential Permit (PRP). Students should note that residence permit validity and visa validity are distinct, and they are responsible for ensuring that their stay in India remains compliant with immigration regulations throughout the duration of their programme.
Please note: Visa and immigration procedures are determined by the Government of India and are subject to change. Students are advised to review official government resources and consult their local Indian Mission and host institution to ensure compliance with the latest requirements. While Nordic Centre India and partner institutions are happy to support students with documentation and general guidance, all visa and immigration decisions rest exclusively with the appropriate authorities.
