Is the student's e-visa for India valid for multiple entries?
Yes, the Student e-Visa in India is issued with multiple-entry permission; however, there are certain conditions and limitations that international students need to be aware of prior to applying for it.
Is the student e-visa for India a multiple-entry visa?
An Indian Student e-Visa is normally issued as a multiple-entry visa, allowing students to enter and exit India several times within the visa validity period. This can particularly be helpful for students who might have to go to another country during their academic holidays, attend to their family matters, or temporarily leave India while continuing their studies.
Nevertheless, the Student e-Visa is purpose-specific, even though multiple entries may be allowed. All the entries into India should be linked directly to the approved course of studies, and students should remain fully compliant with visa conditions throughout their stay.
Validity Period of the Student e-Visa
The validity of a Student e-Visa depends on the duration of the academic course and approval granted by Indian immigration authorities. In most cases:
- The validity of an Indian Student e-Visa is determined by the duration of the academic course and may be granted for up to five years, depending on the program and approval by Indian authorities.
- If the course duration exceeds the initially granted visa validity, any extension or modification must be approved by the FRRO in accordance with Indian immigration regulations.
- The total validity may cover the full duration of the study program, provided the student remains compliant with visa conditions.
Immigration officers may verify a student’s enrollment status at each re-entry. As a result, one should consider carrying pertinent paperwork, including admission letters or enrollment confirmation.
Entry and Stay Conditions
Even though it can include several entries, several rules should be adhered to by the students:
- The student must be enrolled in a recognized Indian educational institution.
- In case of re-entry, it must be within the period of the visa.
- The allowed period of stay should not be overstepped.
- Any prolonged leave from India must be in line with the school's demands.
Failure to comply with these requirements may result in questioning at the port of entry or difficulties with visa renewal.
Registration Requirements in India
All foreign students holding a Student e-Visa are required to register with the FRRO/FRO within the prescribed period after arrival in India, regardless of the length of stay.
- Register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) or the Foreigners Registration Office (FRO)
- Students must update their registration if there is any change in address, institution, or visa status.
Registration is required even when the student's e-visa can be used for multiple entries.
Limitations of the Student e-Visa
Although the Student e-Visa allows multiple entries, it remains subject to strict conditions and limitations:
- The Student e-Visa does not permit employment unless explicitly authorized by Indian authorities. It is inapplicable in other activities besides study.
- The additions and modifications are still subject to government authorization.
Different visa categories might be needed to perform activities like internships, paid research, or jobs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Indian Student e-Visa is issued with multiple-entry permission, meaning the international students could travel in and out of India as long as the visa was valid and all the requirements were fulfilled. It therefore makes it an effective alternative in long-term academic programs. Nevertheless, to ensure legal status as long as they are in India, students need to adhere to the immigration laws, FRRO/FRO registration requirements, and academic requirements closely.
