Special visa categories for international students would make it easier for them to pursue their education in India
India has taken a significant step to attract international students by introducing two special visa categories: the e-student visa and the e-student-x visa. This initiative not only streamlines the process for students seeking education in India but also demonstrates the country’s commitment to becoming a global hub for higher education. The e-student visa is designed specifically for foreign learners registered on the “Study in India” portal. This platform facilitates admissions for international students into a variety of Indian institutions offering long-term and short-term courses. The e-student-x visa, on the other hand, caters to dependents of these students, ensuring families can stay together during their academic journey. To apply for these visas, students need to secure admission to a partner institution listed on the ‘Study in India’ portal. Once the admission is confirmed, they can use their ‘study in India’ identification number to authenticate their identity and complete the visa application process at the official portal. These visas are valid for up to five years, depending on the duration of the chosen course.
By welcoming a diverse cohort of international students, Indian universities can elevate their global reputation, fostering cultural exchange and enhancing their academic standing on the world stage. Increased enrollment of international students contributes to revenue generation, which can be reinvested in research, infrastructure, and faculty development. The influx of students from different countries enriches the campus environment, promoting global perspectives and intercultural dialogue. With a range of courses across disciplines, international students can find programmes tailored to their interests and career aspirations. Studying in India provides an unparalleled opportunity to experience its rich cultural heritage, traditions and diversity. Globally, countries like the US and the UK have long-established student visa frameworks that have attracted millions of international learners. The US for example offers the F-1 visa for academic students and the M-1 visa for vocational or technical students. These visas allow students to work part-time on campus and participate in Optional Practical Training (OPT) programmes, enabling them to gain work experience in their field of study. The UK’s Tier 4 student visa permits full-time study and part-time work during term time. Post-study work options, such as the Graduate Route, allow students to stay and work in the UK for two years after graduation. India’s introduction of specialised student visa categories is a strategic move to position itself as a global education hub. By simplifying the visa process, the country is poised to attract a significant number of international students. With affordable fee structure, India can attract good number of students from across the world. However, a lot more needs to be done in terms of quality of education and infrastructure. University campuses that are foreign student friendly will go a long way in making India an international education hub.
