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Student Visa vs Tourist Visa from India — What's Different?

Visank Editorial20 March 2026Updated 5 April 20267 min read

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Student visas and tourist visas are different categories with different rules. A tourist visa is for short-term visits (usually under 90 days) where you cannot study formally or work. A student visa is for full-time enrolment in an educational institution, typically 6+ months. This guide explains when to use each and how to apply.

Key differences

Aspect	Tourist Visa	Student Visa
Purpose	Short visits, tourism	Full-time study
Duration	Up to 90 days typically	Duration of the course (1-4 years)
Work allowed	No	Limited (usually 20 hrs/week part-time)
Proof of finances	Trip cost + buffer	Full tuition + living costs for 1 year+
Key document	Hotel bookings, itinerary	I-20 / CAS / LoA from institution
Processing time	2-6 weeks	6-12 weeks
Fees	₹5,000-20,000	₹30,000-₹1,00,000+

Can I do a short course on a tourist visa?

Schengen — Yes, for courses under 90 days that don't count as formal enrolment (workshops, language classes, short certificates)
UK — Yes, for courses up to 6 months under Standard Visitor. Specific "Short-term Study" visa for language courses 6-11 months.
US — Yes, for "recreational" courses under a B1/B2 visa. For degree-granting programs, you need an F-1 student visa.
Canada — Yes, for courses under 6 months. Beyond 6 months, you need a study permit.
Australia — Yes, for courses under 3 months. Beyond that, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500).

Student visa basics by country

US F-1 Student Visa

Requires an I-20 from a SEVP-approved institution, SEVIS fee payment, and a consular interview. Fees: $185 MRV + $350 SEVIS. Processing tied to interview wait times.

UK Student Visa

Requires a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) from a Tier 4 sponsor institution. Fees: £490 + IHS health surcharge (£776/year). Processing typically 3 weeks.

Canada Study Permit

Requires a Letter of Acceptance (LoA) from a DLI (Designated Learning Institution). Fees: CAD 150 + biometrics CAD 85. Processing 6-12 weeks.

Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500)

Requires a CoE (Confirmation of Enrolment) and Genuine Temporary Entrant statement. Fees: AUD 710 base. Processing 4-8 weeks.

When a tourist visa is enough

You're attending a conference, workshop, or short certificate course
Course duration under 90 days (6 months for UK)
No formal university/college enrolment
Not seeking a degree or credential
Not needing to work during the stay

When you need a student visa

Full-time enrolment in a degree-granting program
Course duration over 6 months
Formal institution requiring student visa for enrolment
Need to work part-time during studies
Planning to extend stay for post-study work options

Frequently asked questions

?Can I change from tourist visa to student visa?

In some countries yes (Canada, UK in certain cases), in others no (US). Always check the specific country's rules before attempting. It's usually easier and safer to apply for the correct visa from India before travelling.

?Can I study in the US on a tourist visa?

Only recreational, non-credit-bearing short courses. Any formal academic enrolment — even a single credit course at a university — requires an F-1 student visa. Violating this is grounds for deportation and a future visa ban.

?Is a student visa easier to get than a tourist visa?

Different, not easier. Student visas have clearer criteria (you have an acceptance letter, proof of fees, etc.) but higher financial requirements. Tourist visas are more subjective and depend on perceived intent to return.

?How much bank balance do I need for a student visa?

Typically 1 year's tuition + living costs. For the US this is often $30,000-50,000; Canada ~CAD 20,000; UK ~£12,000-18,000; Australia ~AUD 21,000. Requirements vary by country and institution.

?Does Visank handle student visas?

Visank specialises in tourist, business, and short-stay visas. Student visa applications involve institutional verification, I-20/CAS/LoA coordination, and SEVIS/IHS payments — these are handled by specialised student visa consultants.

For tourist, business, and short-stay visas, Visank handles 20+ destinations. Flat ₹5,500.

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