General Information on Intern Visa
The Intern Visa (I Visa) is issued to foreign nationals intending to pursue internships in India with Indian companies, educational institutions, NGOs, or foreign missions. This visa supports structured internship programs and offers opportunities for cultural, academic, and professional exchange.
The visa is typically granted for a maximum of 1 year and is non-renewable.
Who Can Apply?
The Intern Visa is applicable to:
- Recent graduates or postgraduates who intend to pursue an internship in India.
- Students currently enrolled in a degree program who have secured an internship placement with a recognized Indian organization.
- Foreign nationals planning to join educational, research, or NGO-based internship programs.
- Those who intend to intern within one year of completing their graduation/post-graduation.
Note:
Internship must not be for employment purposes and must be limited to non-commercial, training, or skill-building activities.
Key Guidelines
- The Intern Visa is valid for up to 12 months and is not extendable.
- No registration with FRRO/FRO is required if the visa duration is less than 180 days.
- Registration is mandatory within 14 days of arrival if the stay exceeds 180 days.
- A minimum gap of 2 years is required between the completion of the internship and a subsequent employment visa, except for those interning at Indian educational institutions or government-approved companies.
- Internships must not displace Indian workers or offer a salary exceeding INR 3.6 lakhs per annum (if paid).
- A letter from the Indian organization offering the internship must be provided, detailing:
- Nature and scope of the internship
- Duration
- Remuneration (if applicable)
- Statement that no full-time employment will follow directly
Steps to Apply for an Indian Visa via DU Digital Global ICAC
- Create an Account.
Register yourself on the DU Digital Global Indian Consular Application Centre (ICAC) website.
Click here to register. - Fill Out the Government of India’s Online Visa Application Form.
Access the Online Visa Application Portal and select the REGULAR/PAPER VISA APPLICATION option.
Click here to access the form.
Click here to view a sample Indian Visa Application Form. - Print and Sign Your Application.
After filling out the form online, print it and sign where required. - Book Your Appointment Online.
Visit the DU Digital Global ICAC website to schedule your appointment.
Choose a convenient date and time for your visit.
Click here to book your appointment. - Prepare Your Documents.
Ensure you have your passport, photographs, and all other supporting documents as listed in the Documents Checklist section. - Visit the DU Digital Global ICAC.
Go to the ICAC center as per the address mentioned in your appointment confirmation.
Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your appointment time. - Submit Your Application and Pay the Fees.
Submit your completed application along with the applicable fees.
You can check the fee details under the Fee Details section on the website. - Enroll for Biometrics.
If required, your biometric data will be collected at the ICAC center. - Application Submission Complete!
You’ve successfully submitted your visa application.
Optional: You can choose the Courier Service to have your passport delivered to your doorstep. - Track Your Application.
Stay updated on your visa status through the online tracking system.
Click here to track your application.
Document Checklist
Fees Details
Visa Fees and Service Fees
| VISA CATEGORY | VISA FEE | SERVICE FEE | VALIDITY OF VISA | VALIDITY OF STAY |
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the maximum validity of an Intern Visa?
The Intern Visa is typically issued for a maximum of 12 months and is non-renewable.
- Who can apply for this visa?
- Foreign nationals who have recently graduated or are pursuing a degree
- Applicants accepted for internship by an Indian organization, NGO, or academic institution
- Is FRRO registration required?
Only if the visa is issued for more than 180 days. In such cases, registration with the FRRO/FRO is mandatory within 14 days of arrival.
- Can an intern be paid during the internship?
Yes, but if paid, the stipend must be below INR 3.6 lakhs per annum. Internships offering higher pay are considered employment and require an Employment Visa.
- Can I work in India after completing my internship?
Not immediately. A 2-year gap is required between the end of the internship and applying for an Employment Visa, unless you interned at an educational institution or under a government-approved scheme.
- Is the visa extendable or convertible?
No. The Intern Visa is non-extendable and non-convertible under any circumstances.
- Can I apply for multiple entry with this visa?
In most cases, the Intern Visa is issued as single or double entry, depending on the internship duration and justification for travel.
- Where should I apply for this visa?
Submit your application at the appropriate DU Digital Global Indian Consular Application Centre (ICAC) for your jurisdiction. An appointment is mandatory.
- Can I intern at any type of company in India?
Only organizations that are legally registered in India and able to issue a valid internship offer letter can sponsor an Intern Visa.
Travel Regulations
Persons intending to travel India are advised the following for smooth journey:
