By Rozy Efzal

The dream of studying abroad hinges on securing a student visa, a crucial step in a journey filled with both challenges and immense rewards. However, the path to obtaining a visa is increasingly fraught with obstacles, as the demand for overseas education continues to surge.

The Ministry of External Affairs reports that Canada, the USA, the UK, Australia, and Germany host 11,14,829 Indian students out of a total of 13,35,030 abroad as of early 2024, representing 83.5% of the total Indian student population overseas. However, visa approval rates and policies are tightening in four out of these five popular study destinations, making the process more daunting for aspirants.

Recent global shifts, including geopolitical tensions, evolving immigration laws, and stricter visa norms, have made it crucial for Indian students to stay informed and prepared. This article delves into the latest trends in visa processing and approval rates for Indian students in key destinations, offering insights that can guide them through the increasingly competitive landscape.

Is Visa Approval Rate the Only Parameter?

Visa approval rate is an important indicator but not the only one that affects a student’s chances. Factors such as annual visa quotas, application costs, processing times, geopolitical situations, and changes in immigration policies also play significant roles.

For instance, countries may cap the number of student visas issued each year, directly impacting applicants despite meeting all requirements. The cost of applications, which includes visa fees, biometric charges, and mandatory medical tests, has been steadily rising, making the process expensive for many families.

Processing times have also lengthened, with some visas taking months due to backlogs and reduced consulate staffing. Additionally, evolving geopolitical scenarios, such as international relations and domestic policy shifts, can abruptly change visa rules, adding another layer of uncertainty for students planning their education abroad.

How Tough Is It to Actually Get a Student Visa?

The student visa application process involves multiple steps: submitting an online application, paying the visa fee, attending a visa interview, and waiting for approval. However, the complexity and cost of this process vary significantly between countries:

Canada: In 2024, the number of student visas has been capped at 360,000, a 35% decrease from the previous year. Additionally, students must now demonstrate they have at least $20,635 for living expenses, reflecting a significant increase from earlier requirements. Earlier the minimum requirement for the Proof of Funds was $10,000 only. The Canadian government is also reducing the number of consulate staff in India, leading to longer processing times and limited interview slots. The approval rate was a moderate 72% in the 2023.

USA: The United States remains a top choice but in the last five years has seen a dip about 11% approval rates. In 2023 only 64% of F-1 visa were approved compared to 74.6% in 2019. It has the largest network of consulates in India still visa interview slots are limited and the interview process has become more stringent, requiring students to thoroughly justify their choice of course and university.

UK: The UK remains a preferred destination with a 98% visa approval rate in 2023, but it is becoming tougher to secure study visas and post-study work permits. Recent policy changes restrict bringing dependents such as partners and children for certain study visas, which affects many students’ long-term plans.

Additionally, stricter immigration rules and higher financial proof requirements are making the process more challenging. Application fees are very high. At GBP 363 it is almost two and a half times higher than the US. Students must demonstrate financial resources, usually amounting to over GBP 12,000 for living expenses, alongside stringent language and academic requirements.

Australia: Australia’s visa rejection rates are around 15% which is fairly good but recent policy changes have doubled the visa fee to AUD 1600, and immigration norms have become more rigid, particularly concerning English language requirements and financial proof. Moreover, tougher immigration policies are limiting the options for students to transition to permanent residency after their studies.

Germany: While Germany offers affordable education and an acceptance rate of 90%, the visa processing time has increased in recent years. The tightening of visa norms reflects Germany’s cautious approach to managing its increasing international student population. The visa fee is EUR 75, but Students must also prove their financial capability through a blocked account, which currently requires a deposit of approximately EUR 11,208.

If Visas Are Getting Tougher, Why Are Indians Still Going to These Countries?

Despite tougher visa norms, Indian students continue to flock to these countries due to high-quality education, globally recognized degrees, and promising career opportunities. Universities in these destinations are often ranked among the top globally, adding significant value to their degrees. The availability of financial support through scholarships, education loans, and the prospect of working part-time to support living expenses makes these countries attractive. Additionally, many of these nations offer a pathway to permanent residency, making the initial struggle worthwhile for students planning long-term stays.

Which Countries Are Easier to Get Student Visas, and Should You Choose Them?

Germany: The only country from the top five destinations, Germany is actively expanding its educational footprint and easing visa processes to attract more international students. With a visa acceptance rate of over 90%, particularly for STEM fields and research programs, Germany offers strong post-study job prospects, including an extended 18-month post-study work visa, which allows students to find employment in their field of study.

France: As of the end of 2023, France is not on the top ten preferred destinations for Indian students. But it is gaining popularity due to its simplified visa processes, including fewer documentation requirements and faster processing times for Indian students. Recent data shows that France has a student visa acceptance rate of approximately 85%, with most opportunities in business, hospitality, and fashion studies.

UAE: The UAE is emerging as a preferred destination for business and management studies. It offers streamlined visa procedures, relatively low costs, and quick processing times, often under 30 days. While details vary between different Emirates, the country provides long-term visa of 5 years for outstanding students, adding to its appeal. In 2023, 25,000 Indian went to the UAE for tertiary education.

Philippines: The Philippines stand at number 11 in the most preferred destination for Indian students; a notch above France. In 2023, 9665 Indians went there to study. It offers easy visa access for medical and healthcare-related courses. Visa processing is straightforward, with no strict language requirements, and the fees are much lower than Western countries, making it an attractive option for students on a budget. With the conflicts in Russia and Ukraine still continuing, Philippines is expected to get a bigger pie of Indians looking for affordable overseas education.

A Few Suggestions

Be ready to meet the challenge and get all the help you can.

Given the evolving visa landscape in 2024, it is suggested to prioritise countries based on the stream a student wants to pursue and evaluate the long-term benefits. Indian students must carefully consider the following:

Favourable Visa Policies: Choose countries with higher visa acceptance rates and streamlined processes. Research the latest visa trends and consult experts for the most current advice.

Quality of Education: Prioritize countries with globally recognized universities that align with your academic and career goals. The value of your degree should justify the challenges of obtaining a visa.

Long-Term Prospects: Opt for destinations that offer robust post-study work options and pathways to permanent residency, ensuring that your education investment pays off in the long run.

Plan Early: Start the application process well in advance, keeping in mind the processing times and interview slot availability. Early planning helps manage unexpected delays.

It is essential to prepare a strong application, demonstrate academic merit, and adhere to all visa requirements meticulously to get the visa of your preferred country.

Conclusion

Securing a student visa is undoubtedly becoming tougher, but with proper preparation and strategic planning, Indian students can still achieve their dreams of studying abroad. By choosing the right destination, understanding visa policies, and staying proactive in their approach, students can manage the complexities of the visa process and unlock a world of opportunities.

(Author is Co Founder & Director, Invest4Edu)

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