India is a prime destination for global companies expanding into the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, thanks to its vast consumer market, skilled workforce, and significant economic growth. However, hiring and relocating foreign talent to India presents unique challenges. This guide outlines the different types of Indian work visas and provides a step-by-step process for obtaining work authorization in India.
The Employment visa is a general work visa for various professionals planning to work as employees for locally registered Indian companies. Eligibility includes earning at least USD 25,000 annually while undertaking employment with a local company. Additionally, consultants, artists, self-employed professionals, and NGO volunteers are eligible for this visa. The visa is typically valid for the duration of the employment contract, usually one year. Spouses and dependents must apply for a separate Entry visa (or 'X' visa).
The Business visa is suited for foreign nationals traveling to India for business purposes but not necessarily working under a local organization. It allows for short trips to conduct meetings, establish a business, or make investments. This visa can be valid for up to five years, depending on the applicant's needs. Like the Employment visa, dependents must apply for a separate Entry visa.
The eligibility criteria for an Indian work visa encompass various work categories, including:
Consultants on contract with local companies.
Artists performing regularly at hotels, clubs, and other venues.
Athletes with performance contracts from local clubs.
Self-employed professionals in engineering, medicine, accounting, law, etc.
Foreign language teachers and interpreters.
Specialists working with local NGOs.
Entrepreneurs establishing a local business.
Individuals traveling for meetings or negotiations.
Applicants must often prove they are senior executives or highly skilled professionals earning more than USD 25,000 annually. Indian authorities do not issue work visas for routine clerical positions or jobs for which qualified Indian nationals are available.
Applicants must gather the following documents:
A valid passport with at least one year of validity and three blank pages.
Two passport-size photos.
An employment contract in English specifying work conditions and duration.
A copy of the employer’s company registration.
A completed visa application form.
The applicant’s resume or CV in English.
Education certificates and other supporting documents proving professional competencies.
Candidates must complete and submit a visa application through the Government of India’s online portal. This system directs candidates to schedule a visa appointment with their local consulate and pay visa fees, ranging from USD 114 to USD 998, depending on the visa type and country of residence.
Applicants must attend a scheduled appointment at the appropriate Indian consulate to submit their application and required documents to a consular officer.
Upon approval, candidates can collect their passport with the visa stamped inside. While processing typically takes three days, applicants should prepare for possible delays.
If the visa is valid for more than 180 days, holders must register with the FRRO within 14 days of arrival. Registration can be completed online through the e-FRRO website.
The cost for obtaining work authorization in India varies depending on the visa type, duration, and the applicant's country of residence. For instance, a five-year Employment visa for U.S. citizens costs USD 320, while a one-year visa costs USD 220.
Most work visas are valid for one year but can range from six months to five years, depending on the visa and the applicant's field. Extensions can be applied for on a yearly basis for up to five years from the date of issue.
Global companies without a local entity face significant challenges when hiring and relocating foreign talent. Partnering with an Employer of Record (EOR) in India can help overcome these obstacles. An EOR serves as the legal employer of a global workforce, handling everything from hiring and onboarding to payroll, benefits administration, and ongoing HR support. This allows companies to hire and relocate top talent quickly and compliantly without establishing a local entity.
Obtaining work authorization in India involves navigating a detailed application process and meeting specific eligibility criteria. By understanding the types of visas available and the steps required for application, companies and professionals can better prepare for a successful transition to working in India. Partnering with experts like an EOR can further simplify the process, ensuring compliance and efficiency in global hiring efforts.
Prepared on the information from velocityglobal.com