Research Visa

Foreigners desiring to undertake research work in India must apply two weeks before the planned visit to India in prescribed format giving full bio-data and synopsis of thesis. Research visa in certain cases requires prior clearance from Government of India. Acceptance letter from the Indian institution/ university and details such as period of proposed research in India, educational qualifications, arrangement for stay and meeting expenditure towards boarding/lodging, must accompany the Application Form. The duration of Research Visa will be as per the duration of the research period.

Check list Do and Don’ts for Indian Visa Click here

Documents Required:

  1. Duly completed Visa Application Form.
  2. Endorsement of profession in passport is must where there is a provision
  3. Acceptance letter from the Indian Institution clearly mentioning details such as period of proposed research in India.
  4. Educational qualifications, arrangement for stay and meeting expenditure towards boarding/lodging, must accompany the Application Form.
  5. Two recent (not more than 3 months old) 2×2 inch colour photograph (without spectacles) depicting full face with both ear visible in white background. Photo on Passport and VAF must match applicant’s present appearance.
  6. Previous visit details at Serial Number F of sample Visa application Form :
    1. Applicant to fill the correct visa details of last visit to India.
    2. Applicant mention the last availed (actual Traveled) visa number starting with alphabet along with date of issue. (eg: VLI123456 dated 25 June 2017).
    3. In case the last visa was an eTV (electronic Visa / e-visa). The visa number and date (date of first entry on e-visa) as stamped / registered on applicant’s passport by Bureau of Immigration,India at time entry into India.
  7. Previous passports (If previous is passport is lost please ensure endorsement to that effect in current passport or provide the police compliant report).
  8. Photocopy on N.I.C / Driving License/ Birth Certificate (For Sri Lanka national only).
  9. Address Proof (NIC/Driving License / Bank Statement / Government Utility bills / G S Certificate).

Please Note:

  • Duration of visa will be decided on a case-to-case basis.
  • This is not intended to be a complete list of documents that may be needed. High Commission reserves the right to seek additional documents post submission of application.
  • The Passport should have a minimum validity of 6 months on the date of application with at least two blank pages.
  • Some individual cases may require more time for processing.
  • Applicants may have to attend an Interview at “The High Commission of India” if required.
  • High Commission of India reserves the right to refuse visa without assigning reasons and without refund of fee.

Types of Visas