Unlocking Indian Internship Visas: Opportunities for Foreign Graduates

The Indian internship visa streamlines internship opportunities for foreign graduates, offering a one-year stay and requiring embassy approval. It represents a significant step towards welcoming international talent and fostering global collaboration. Foreign students who wish to do their internship in Indian companies, universities, or NGOs need proper authorization from the Indian government. Earlier, foreigners needed to apply for an employment or business visa to do an internship in India. Introduced in 2017, the Indian internship visa process is much simpler and straightforward. Read on to learn about this new category of Indian visas.

Applicants for the internship visa must provide an invitation letter from the organization, educational institute, or NGO and meet minimum remuneration requirements. Eligibility is restricted to those who have completed their degree within the last year. Foreign students cannot apply if they have previously been employed in India and must leave the country before the visa expires. The application process includes submitting an online form and attending an in-person interview at the Indian embassy or consulate. Applicants must be aware of the processing duration and potential limitations based on their home country.

International students can stay in India for up to one year on an internship visa. However, once their internship ends, they must exit immediately as no extensions or conversions to other visa types are permitted. The visa is limited in number, and certain countries face additional restrictions concerning eligibility. Ultimately, the Indian internship visa presents significant opportunities but requires careful navigation of its guidelines and preparation for a successful application process. Always check for updates from relevant authorities as policies can evolve.