International Identity Cards For India Travel

For students, youth and teachers, the following identity cards open doors for them in terms of discounted stays, food and much more.

International Student Identity Card (ISIC)

The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is the only internationally accepted proof of student status which is certified by UNESCO. The ISIC card offers discounts not only for travel, but also for stuff like apparel, software, books and more. You need to be a full-time student aged 12 years or more to get the ISIC card. An ISIC card is valid for 16 months. The card issued in India is valid from 1 Dec of a year to 31 Mar of second year (e.g. 01 Dec 2014 to 31 Mar 2016). There are over 4.5 million card holders in the world and it is valid in 124 countries. ISIC has built relationships with global organisations that provide discounts and services to ISIC holders. Some of the global ISIC partners include the Accor Hotel Group, MakemyTrip.com, Cafe Coffee Day, GoIbibo.com, MasterCard, Microsoft, Best Western Hotels and more. At present there are more than 41,000 discounts and benefits all over the world, ranging from 80% off on MS Office (go get it now!) to free entries to museums and more. In India, you can get it at http://www.isic.co.in or at any ISIC office locations. If you apply for it online you must have the scanned copies of your documents ready. Following documents are required while applying for the ISIC:

• One passport sized photo.

• Proof of identity: Drivers licence/passport / Voter ID card etc.

• Date of Birth Proof : 10th Mark-sheet / Birth Certificate/ Voter ID etc.

• Proof of full – time student status: Present ID issued by your school or official letter or documentation from your place of study confirming youre a bonafide full-time student.

The present cost is Rs. 562.00 (ISIC fees of INR 500 + INR 62 service tax @ 12.36%)

International Youth Travel Card (IYTC)

What if you are not a full-time student but are 30 years old or younger? The alternative is the IYTC (International Youth Travel Card) card which offers similar benefits as the ISIC. Youll save money on flights, accommodation, phone calls, museums, food, clothes, movies and more. To get an IYTC you need to present one of the following documents that identifies you and proves your age:

• Passport

• Birth Certificate

• An official identity card issued by the official authorities

• A passport sized photo International Teacher Identity Card (ITIC)

If youre now working as a full-time teacher or professor, you can enjoy teacher discounts with the International Teacher Identity Card (ITIC). There is no age limit for this. To get an ITIC you need to present the following documents:

• A letter on official letterhead confirming that you are employed at a recognised educational establishment for a minimum of 18 hours per week and for a minimum of one academic year.

• Passport

• Birth Certificate

• An official identity card issued by the official authorities

• A passport sized photo

The current cost of the IYTC and ITIC in India is INR 500/- + 12.36 service tax.

You can apply for an IYTC or ITIC card at almost every ISIC issuing point.