Student for UK citizens travelling to India
Study in India needs a student visa from the Indian mission, not an e-Tourist.
For a full UK citizen passport. Other British passport types can follow a different rule.
Key facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Who it's for | Students admitted to Indian institutions. |
| Maximum stay | Course duration on the student visa. |
| Cost | Student visa fees are on the Indian mission schedule via the Indian visa portal (opens in a new tab). |
| Processing time | Apply after admission; GOV.UK advises allowing plenty of time for mission processing. |
| How to apply | Indian visa application process after admission letter. |
| Official link | Use the authority’s own website. Entry Visa Guide does not take applications. · Indian government visa portal (opens in a new tab) |
Apply only on the government website linked above. This site does not issue visas or travel authorisations and does not take applications. Other websites charge their own service fee on top of any government charge.
How to apply
- Receive admission from the institution.
- Apply for a student visa at the mission or VFS.
- Travel with admission and financial evidence.
FAQ
Can I study on e-Tourist?
The e-Tourist is for tourism — longer study needs a student visa.
Is research allowed on e-Visa?
GOV.UK says some activities need special permission.
Sources
- GOV.UK: India entry requirements (opens in a new tab)
- Indian government: e-Visa portal (opens in a new tab)
- Indian government: e-Tourist visa fee table (PDF) (opens in a new tab)
- Indian government: e-Arrival card (opens in a new tab)
- Indian government: authorised visa portal, including the warning about agents (opens in a new tab)
Independent guide, not legal advice. Entry Visa Guide is an independent information site. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or run by any government or public authority. Always check official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Report an error.