Aiming to position India at the forefront of global academic and technological advancements, the Ministry of Home Affairs has approved the introduction of the G20 Talent Visa. The aim is to attract top-tier international scholars, researchers, and professionals from G-20 countries to India. Designed for those engaged in academic projects, post-doctoral research, fellowships, and specialized training programs, this visa falls under the S-5 sub-category of the student visa framework, making it an ideal opportunity for academic achievers worldwide. The University Grants Commission (UGC) is responsible for spreading awareness about the visa to higher education institutions across India.
This initiative is in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, shared at the G20 summit in September this year, to draw international talent and boost India’s scientific and technological capabilities. Through the G20 Talent Visa, India seeks to foster global collaboration, drive innovation, and strengthen its educational ecosystem. Click here for the official approval notice.
The official notice reads, “It is informed that the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) has announced the approval to introduce a new category ‘G20 Talent Visa’ under the sub-category (S-5 visa) of Student Visa for Scientists, Researchers, Faculty members, Scholar Academicians of the G20 group countries to enter India for the purpose of projects, training programs, post-doctoral research, fellowships, etc.
All Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) are requested to take note of this and circulate the information on the G20 Talent Visa among stakeholders/ faculty members/ researchers/scholars. This visa will provide a valuable opportunity for individuals to present their research and innovations.”
G20 summit 2024: Announcement of talent visa
During the second session of the G20 summit, PM Modi proposed the introduction of a “G20 Talent Visa,” a specialized category aimed at attracting skilled professionals, similar to initiatives adopted by other countries.
The PM said at the G20 summit, “Similar to how all countries issue different categories of visas, we can establish a ‘G20 Talent Visa’ as a special category. This type of visa could be highly beneficial for our top science and technology talent to explore global opportunities. Their talent and efforts can contribute significantly to our economies.”
G 20 Talent Visa: What is it all about?
This visa is aimed at facilitating the entry of talented individuals, such as scientists, researchers, and faculty members from G20 countries, into India. It will allow scholars from G 20 countries to engage in various projects, training programs, and post-doctoral research in India, thereby fostering international academic and scientific exchange. The G20 Talent Visa is designed specifically for individuals involved in sectors such as science, technology, engineering, and academia. The Ministry of Home Affairs oversees the approval process, ensuring that applicants meet the necessary criteria.
Other global talent visas from around the world
The G20 Talent Visa marks a significant step in India’s effort to attract global talent in research and academia. Comparable programs like the UK’s Global Talent Visa, Australia’s Global Talent Visa, and the US O-1 Visa have already paved the way for nations to draw top-tier talent. Here is a broad overview of these global talent visas.
- UK’s Global Talent Visa: The UK offers a Global Talent Visa, similar to the G20 Talent Visa, targeting exceptional individuals in fields like science, engineering, humanities, and digital technology. Applicants must first obtain endorsement from recognized bodies such as the Royal Society of UK Research and Innovation. This endorsement ensures that only highly accomplished individuals are considered for the visa. Visa holders in the UK can work freely, and after three years, they may apply for indefinite leave to remain.
- Australia’s Global Talent Visa: Australia’s version of the Global Talent Visa also aims to attract highly skilled professionals, requiring applicants to demonstrate their expertise and secure an endorsement from an Australian organization. This visa also provides a pathway to permanent residency for eligible candidates.
- US O-1 Visa: In the United States, the O-1 visa is a similar option for individuals with extraordinary abilities in various fields, including arts and sciences. This non-immigrant visa requires applicants to prove their exceptional talent through awards and recognition. Unlike the G20 Talent Visa, which primarily targets academic researchers, the O-1 visa is more expansive, covering a wide range of professionals.
