7 visa-free countries for Indians who want to study abroad

Statistics by the Ministry of External Affairs have revealed that as many as 261,406 Indian students studied abroad in 2020. From increased exposure to foreign cultures and languages, to the development of essential skills required by the global workforce, studying abroad offers a range of benefits to students. While many aspirants opt to pursue their education in the some of the best countries to study abroad, these countries have an extensive documentation process, specially when it comes to the visa. However, there are also several visa-free countries for Indians across the world.

If you choose to study in these visa-free nations, you won’t have to face the hassle of going through a cumbersome documentation process. This will save you a lot of time and effort. It will also help you kickstart your studies by providing you with a range of short-term course options to choose from. And completing a short-term course abroad will equip you with the relevant skills and exposure that you need to add value to your education.

Discover the 7 countries that Indians can travel to without a visa below-

1. Qatar 

Qatar is a country in the Middle East that allows citizens with an Indian passport to visit the country visa-free. The culture in Qatar is influenced by the religion of Islam and boasts several rich heritage sites. Indian nationals not only enjoy the benefits of a shorter entry process into the country but are also permitted to stay for up to 30 days without a visa. 

Qatar is an excellent choice for Indians who are looking to gain exposure abroad. There are several international universities with branches in the country. These institutions offer a number of recognized short-term courses to international students.

Some of the best universities in Qatar include-

• Qatar University 
• Carnegie Mellon University 
• Texas A&M University 
• Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) – School of the Arts

2. Mauritius 

Indians can enter the country of Mauritius with a visa fee waiver and can stay there for up to 90 days. Apart from the warm weather, beautiful beaches, and multi-ethnic population, Mauritius is also an excellent country to study in!

The Government of Mauritius invests a significant amount of financial resources in developing the education infrastructure of the country. As a result, the country is home to over 10,000 overseas students pursing Management, Engineering, and other courses. 

Some of the top universities in Mauritius include-

• Anna Medical College and Research Centre 
• University of Mauritius 
• Open University of Mauritius 
• Middlesex University

3. Nepal 

Nepal, a neighboring country of India, is among the closest visa-free countries for Indians to visit. A beautiful nation landlocked in the Himalayas, Nepal offers opportunities for short-term programs that are economical and recognized. 

Most of the courses offered by the universities in Nepal follow a non-distance, traditional format. In addition to short-term courses, the higher education institutions also offer a minimum of 4 undergraduate and postgraduate degrees for aspirants to choose from.

Some of the best institutions in Nepal are: 

• Far Western University 
• Agriculture and Forestry University 
• Kathmandu University 
• Tribhuvan University 

4. Ecuador 

Officially known as the Republic of Ecuador, the country is open to Indian citizens, who get a visa issued on arrival. Indian travelers are allowed to reside in the country for a period of 90 days or less.

Some of the most popular attractions of Ecuador include the historic center of Quito and the Galapagos Islands. What’s more, two of its cities are recognized as UNESCO world natural and cultural heritage sites!

The universities in Ecuador are recognized for their varied course options and unique use of natural resources. There are public universities in Ecuador that are even tuition-free! However, short-term courses offered by these universities will have associated costs. But they are economical and promote extensive learning and growth. 

Some of the best universities in Ecuador include-

• Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador 
• Technical University of Ambato 
• University of Cuenca 
• University of Azuay

5. Grenada 

Located in the West Indies, Granada is another country that Indian citizens can travel to without a visa. Here also, Indians allowed to stay in the country for up to 90 days without a visa. Along with its natural and historical sites, waterfalls, and beaches, Grenada is widely known for British-Commonwealth-based education system.

While there are more than 184 schools in the country, it is home to only 2 higher-education institutions-

1. T. A. Marryshow Community College and
2. St. George’s University

These universities offer several specialized short-term courses for aspirants to choose from. 

It’s important to note that while St. George’s University is established as a medical school, it has also expanded its program to include-

• School of Arts and Sciences 
• The School of Veterinary Medicine 
• School of Medicine 
• Graduate Studies in programs like International Business and Health Management 

6. Fiji 

Known as the Republic of Fiji, the country is a great option for Indians to visit, and consider for short-term courses and exposure. Some of the main attractions in Fiji include its islands and white beaches.

All of the law schools, engineering colleges, and medical schools in the country meet the formal education standards of the globe. With a blend of hands-on practical learning and classroom training, students can opt for short-term courses from disciplines such as Education, Engineering, Science, Business, and Agriculture.

Some of the best universities in Fiji are-

• Fiji School of Nursing
• The Fiji School of Medicine 
• Fiji Institute of Technology 
• The University of the South Pacific 
• The University of Fiji 

Fiji’s School of Nursing is also recognized for its Bachelor’s in Nursing programs. It is sought by national and international students. Moreover, students do require a student visa to complete this program. 

7. Indonesia 

Recognized as the world’s largest island country, Indonesia also allows Indian citizens to visit and stay for a period of 30 days. The vast archipelago, beaches, tropical climate, and rich cultural heritage reflect the ethnic diversity of the country. This makes one of the most traveled visa-free countries for Indians. 

Universities in this island country also offer a number of short-term courses across a wide range of disciplines. Most of the universities in Indonesia are public universities, where aspirants enjoy a thriving, multicultural academic environment. 

Some of the top universities in Indonesia include-

• Universitas Indonesia 
• Binus International 
• Swiss German University 
• London School of Public Relations 
• School of Business Management ITB 

FAQs 

Q1. What is the fee for a program at the Fiji School of Nursing?

Answer – You can expect to shell out INR 15,000 per year for a 3-4 year program in Nursing. Short-term courses, on the other hand, will have a different fee structure. 

Q2. Can I work in these foreign countries on a student visa?

Answer – While work regulations vary depending on the country, most countries allow aspirants to support themselves while on a student visa. 

Q3. When was St. George’s University in Granada established?

Answer – St. George’s University was founded on July 23, 1976.

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Happy Learning!