Work Permits and Visas in 2024: Your Handbook for India

India is certainly making its mark in the world economy. It is becoming one of the desired places to live and work in for young entrepreneurs. Its major cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, and Hyderabad are becoming important hubs for many international workers in the tech and business industry.

India is known for its rich culture and cultural heritage, excellent food, and low cost of living. It makes it an ideal location for those keen on exploring new cultures and learning about different spiritual and wellness activities.

You will need a visa if you would like to move to India and work there. Visa options in India are limited, which makes this process fairly straightforward. So, if you want to move to India, here is what you should know about its work visas and permits.

What types of visas are available?

To live and work in India, you can use either a business visa or employment visa. Here is how they differ, their requirements, and the documents you must submit.

Business Visa (B Visa)

A Business Visa (B Visa) in India is designed for foreign nationals who intend to do some business-related activities in the country for a short time.

These include attending meetings, establishing or exploring business opportunities, or trading. Other common uses of this visa include being involved in short-term projects, exhibitions, or trade fairs.

When applying for this visa, you'll need to provide relevant documents that verify the nature of your business activities. This may include company registration or partnership proofs. You can't use the business visa for money lending, petty trade, or full-time employment.

To qualify for a Business Visa, you must have a valid passport. In some cases, you might need a re-entry permit and evidence of financial stability. Typically, this visa is issued from the applicant’s home country or a country where they have resided for more than two years.

How long is the business visa valid for?

A Business Visa is valid for up to five years. Each visit usually allows a stay of up to six months. It may be extended up to five years based on the business's performance and compliance with legal requirements.

What documents do you need for a business visa?

Required documents for a Business Visa include:

1. A valid travel document,

2. Proof of financial stability,

3. Any business-related documents like company registration or business agreements.

Employment visa

An Employment Visa (E Visa) is for foreign nationals who wish to live and work in India for a specific company, organization, or industry.

Who is eligible for an employment visa in India?

You must meet specific criteria to be eligible for an employment visa in India. This visa is for highly skilled professionals. It is the right choice for people with specialized qualifications that are not available within the Indian workforce. Common sectors include technology, engineering, and specialized business roles.

Applicants must provide proof of their employment, educational qualifications, and professional expertise. The sponsoring employer must also be registered. The employer should also get recognized by the relevant authorities before hiring foreign employees.

So, to apply for employment visa, you must have a legitimate job offer from a registered Indian company or organization. The visa also requires you to have a minimum annual salary of ₹16.25 lakhs, which is approximately $20,000.

Exceptions for this exist for certain roles. Exceptions include faculty in prestigious institutions or those holding PIO/OCI cards. The exceptions also include specific roles such as cooks, language teachers, or those working for embassies.

Employment Visas are also available to consultants, foreign artists, and coaches. It also applies to specialists in fields like engineering and technology. It is also the right visa for employment contracts related to installation or technical support in India.

Employment visas are not granted for routine, clerical, or secretarial jobs. It’s important to confirm that the job offer aligns with all the requirements. The employer should ensure that the position requires a foreign national.

How long is employment visa valid?

The validity can range from one to five years. It is extendable up to five years in total, based on continued employment and compliance with Indian regulations.

What documents do you need to get an employment visa?

For an Indian employment visa, you will need several key documents. The exact requirements may vary by the Indian embassy or consulate where you apply. However, here is a general list of commonly required documents:

1. Your Passport

It must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in India and have at least two blank pages for visa stamps. A photocopy of the page with your picture and passport details is also needed.

2. Visa Application Form

This form must be completed online, printed, and signed.

3. Employment Documents

You will need the original employment contract signed by both you and the Indian company. The Indian authorities may require a letter from the company explaining why your employment is necessary. The employer might not to prove there was no qualified Indian citizend that could fill the role.

The company's registration certificate or proof of incorporation and an undertaking stating that the company will pay your income tax in India may also be needed.

4. Proof of Qualifications

When applying for a employment visa, you’ll need to submit copies of your educational certificates relevant to the job offer.

5. Additional Documents

You will also have to include two recent passport-sized photographs, proof of financial stability, and a medical certificate in some cases. You will also need to provide evidence of accommodation in India, such as a hotel reservation or other proof of where you will stay initially. A round-trip flight itinerary might also be requested.

For the most accurate and specific information, consult with your EOR or the Indian Embassy or Consulate.

Is there a visa for digital nomads, or self-employed?

Unfortunately, India currently does not offer a specific visa for digital nomads or self-employed individuals. Be mindful that India doesn’t allow you to work while on tourist visa.

If you want to move and work in India but cannot obtain an invitation letter from an Indian employer, it’s best to consult with a reputable EOR to find the right solution for you.

How much does a visa for India cost?

The cost of the visa depends on your citizenship and the currency exchange rates. There is also the option to expedite the visa process which may add up to the cost.

On average, the business visa will cost from $120 to $230. The employment visa will cost more, on average between $120 to $560, depending on your nationality and the duration of your stay.

To find the accurate visa cost based on your citizenship, it’s recommended you visit your local Indian embassy or consulate and inform yourself about the pricing and fees that apply to your specific country.

How long will it take to receive a visa for India?

The time it takes to process an Indian visa can vary based on a few important factors. Business visas are generally processed faster than employment visas. Your nationality will also play a role. Some nationalities might experience quicker processing due to special agreements between their country and India.

E-Business Visa is the quickest option. It typically takes 3 to 5 business days after you submit a complete application. Regular Business Visa on the other hand, can take around 10 to 15 business days at the Indian embassy or consulate, once they receive your application.

However, these are just averages. Actual processing times can be longer. This might happen if there are individual issues or unexpected delays. Sometimes, they might need more information or ask for an interview, which can also slow things down.

For the most accurate estimate, it’s always best to contact the Indian embassy or consulate handling your application. They can give you a better idea based on your specific situation and their current processing times.

FAQ:

What are the types of work permits in India?

India offers two main types of work permits for foreign nationals: the Business Visa (B Visa) and the Employment Visa (E Visa). A business visa is valid for a short time, is fairly cheap, and can be obtained quickly. An employment visa allows you to work in India for longer but requires an invitation letter from your employer.

What is the minimum salary for an employment visa in India?

The minimum salary requirement for an employment visa in India depends on your profession and situation. The most common minimum salary requirement is ₹16.25 lakhs per year or approximately $20,000 yearly. This applies to most foreign nationals seeking employment in India.

Do I need a visa to work remotely in India?

India doesn't currently offer a specific "digital nomad" visa for working remotely and strictly prohibits working while visiting the country on a tourist visa. If you would like to work as a digital nomad in India, it is best to consult with a trusted EOR about your options.