Visa Process Overview
Below is a general overview of your expected student visa or residence permit application process. Step-by-step instructions on how to apply for your student visa will be posted below as soon as they are updated for your specific departure cycle. As instructions are posted for your program and cycle, you will receive an email notification.
The visa application process, including requirements and fees, are subject to change.
What type of visa do I need?
You will be applying for a Multiple-EntryTourist Visa for India.
How do I apply for the visa?The Indian Embassy in the United States has outsourced their visa processing to a national visa service company. You will be required to apply for your visa through this company at the location which has jurisdiction over your state and then it will be authorized by the Indian Embassy. After registering with the company, you have the option of mailing in or personally dropping-off your passport and additional required documents necessary for processing your visa. After your arrival in India, you will be required to register at the Foreigner’s Registration Office.
What documents will I need to collect in order to apply for the visa?- United States Passport valid for at least six months after your return
- Visa Application Form
- Passport-sized Photographs
- Copy of your parents' Passports (both parents require a passport)
- Birth Certificate
You will also receive additional documents from AFS-USA and AFS-India necessary for applying for your visa.
In addition, in order to register in India, you will need to have the following updated immunizations. Please bring a copy of your immunization record with you:
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- MMR
- Polio
- Tetanus-Diptheria (TD)
- Typhoid
Requirements may vary. Additional documents may be required. Do not begin collecting your documents until you are notified by AFS.
How much will the visa cost?AFS will cover your visa fee.
Are there any other expected costs?There are many additional costs involved in obtaining, translating, notarizing, legalizing, or mailing the required documents. There will also be the additional costs of the necessary immunizations. Lastly, there may also be additional costs associated with travelling to the visa company for you and your family members.
Are any of these costs covered in my AFS program tuition?No, your program fee does not cover any of the costs related to obtaining your passport or visa.
Can I travel before the start of my program?AFS recommends that you not plan any travel outside of the United States during the two months before your program departs. Obtaining a visa takes time and your passport is usually required for this. Should you choose to travel within the two months before the start of your program and not allow enough time to procure your visa, you will run the risk of jeopardizing your travel arrangements.
Full Visa InstructionsIndia NSLI Visa Instructions
Fees and requirements are determined by immigration authorities and are subject to change at any time. For help with any terms, please view the Visa Glossary.
