290. NOC to Get Student Visa

for India . . . Provisional

Student Visa

Q. Dear Sir, My son residence of UAE holding USA passport came to the Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi to apply for student visa, as he will be studying dentistry in Chennai. He was told that he had to obtain the NOC from Indian Ministry of Health through the University. The University only is able to obtain NOC from Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare if my son has Student Visa in his passport. I would appreciate if you may please guide me as my son is lost in between. Thanking you Naghmeh Khalili A. The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi was right in telling your son that he needs a NOC from the Indian Ministry of Health through the University. In order to get this NOC, students have to submit an application through the principal/Head of Department of the concerned college where they seek admission. (previously answered in response to question number 163. How foreign students can get NOC for college admission in India.) For more information, kindly refer to question 158 on the previous pages. Indian consulates will issue student visas normally to those who have confirmed admission to a course in a reputed/recognized institute in India. On the other hand, situations, such as in your son's case occur where the educational institution will not help with the NOC requirement until a student visa is issued. In case your son cannot get the University to help get the required NOC, then your son has an option of applying for a provisional student visa. Students who do not have firm letters of admission from Indian universities or institutions are issued 'Provisional Student Visa' by the Indian Missions abroad, on the basis of provisional letters of admissions. Provisional Student Visas are valid for 3 months. This provides time to confirm admission by fulfilling the required formalities. Once all formalities are completed, students can apply for a Student Visa to the local FRRO/FRO along with necessary documentary evidences of confirmed admission, financial standing etc. Kindly note that in case confirmed admission is not done by the time your provisional student visa expires, the student is required to leave India as these visas cannot be extended. Hope this helps.