India has introduced two new visa categories for international students who want to pursue higher education in Indian institutions. The Ministry of Home Affairs launched the 'e-student visa' and the 'e-student-x visa' as part of this initiative.

The e-student visa is available for foreign students who are registered on the 'Study in India' (SII) portal. The e-student-x visa is for the dependents of e-student visa holders. Both visa types need to be applied for through the official platform at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/. Applications will be verified using a unique SII ID, so it is mandatory for all applicants to register on the SII portal. “For students wishing to pursue higher education in India, applying through the SII website is a must,” MHA said. Students must first receive an admission offer from a partner university listed on the SII portal before they may apply for a visa. Foreign nationals admitted to recognised institutions offering undergraduate, postgraduate, PhD, or other formal programs are eligible for this visa, which is valid for up to five years, with extensions possible in India. Visa holders enjoy the flexibility of entering the country through any authorised immigration check post.

The SII portal is a major project by the Ministry of Education aimed at making the admission process easier for international students. This platform connects students to over 600 partner institutions, providing access to more than 8,000 courses across various fields such as engineering, management, sciences, arts, law, paramedical sciences and specialised areas like Buddhist Studies and Yoga. Courses are available across multiple levels, including Undergraduate (Bachelor’s), Postgraduate (Master’s), Doctoral (PhD) and Certification-based programmes.

Students can register online by providing basic details such as their name, country, date of birth, email ID, and mobile number. It is mandatory for each student to have a unique SII ID, which plays a crucial role in tracking applications, visas, and other higher education processes. Without an SII ID, students will not be able to apply for studies or move to India.

To begin, register on the SII portal by clicking the 'Register Now' tab and submit your basic personal details to obtain a unique SII ID. This ID can then be used to apply for courses, track the progress of your application, and apply for an e-student visa.