India Student Visa Guide for International Students (2026) — Documents, Process, Timelines

MBA in Maharashtra for International and NRI Students

Direct Answer

After a Maharashtra college seat is allotted via fn.mahacet.org, apply for an Indian Student Visa at your nearest Indian Mission with your passport, admission letter and financial proof. Processing typically takes a few weeks, and you register with the FRRO after arriving in India.

Apply only after you hold the admission/allotment letter — it anchors the visa application.
Core documents: passport, admission letter, photographs, financial proof and academic certificates.
Register with the FRRO/e-FRRO portal after arrival as instructed on your visa.

AI-Generated Summary

Indian student visa process for international students (2026): obtain your admission letter through fn.mahacet.org seat allotment, then apply at the nearest Indian Embassy/High Commission or via indianvisaonline.gov.in with passport, admission letter, photos, financial proof and academic documents. Processing commonly takes two to four weeks. After arrival, complete FRRO/e-FRRO registration as instructed. SAARC nationals may have relaxed norms; Nepal and Bhutan citizens do not need a visa.

The visa is the last gate between your allotment letter and your first day on campus. The process is straightforward when the paperwork is right — here is the sequence.

Who Needs a Student Visa

All foreign-passport students need an Indian Student Visa — with two notable exceptions: citizens of Nepal and Bhutan do not require a visa. OCI-card holders already hold lifelong entry and study rights.

Documents You Will Need

Passport valid for the course duration
Admission / seat-allotment letter from the State CET Cell process
Recent photographs per spec
Proof of funds for tuition and living costs
Academic certificates (plus AIU equivalence certificate where applicable)

The Application Process

Receive your seat allotment and admission letter via fn.mahacet.org.
Fill the online form at indianvisaonline.gov.in and book an appointment at the Indian Mission.
Submit documents and biometrics; pay the visa fee for your nationality.
Typical processing is two to four weeks — apply as soon as the allotment letter arrives.

After You Arrive: FRRO Registration

Students on long-term visas must register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) through the e-FRRO portal within the window stated on the visa (commonly 14 days). Your college's international-student cell handles this routinely — ask them first.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does an Indian student visa take?

Commonly two to four weeks from a complete application, varying by country. Apply immediately after receiving your allotment letter.

Do Nepali or Bhutanese students need a visa?

No. Citizens of Nepal and Bhutan do not require a visa to study in India.

What is FRRO registration?

A post-arrival registration with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office via the e-FRRO portal, required for long-term student stays — your college international office will guide you.

Do I need MHT CET or JEE?

No. International candidates (Foreign National, NRI, OCI, PIO, CIWGC) are exempt from MHT CET. Most courses are merit-based; only medical courses need NEET-UG and architecture needs NATA.