Indian Work Permit

Working permits in India are less defined than work permits in many other countries in that the Indian immigration structure does not present detailed requirements for obtaining one.

Work permits are a very subjective area of Indian visa services, however in order to live and work in India all candidates must secure one.

Benefits

The key benefit of an Indian employment visa is that it permits a foreign national to live and work in India.

Unlike an Indian business visa which permits a range of business activities but excludes the right to undertake employment, a successful work permit application offers the right to begin living and working in India upon arrival.

In addition, unlike short-term India visa services such as a tourist visa, Indian work permits can be extended in increments of one year as required.

Eligibility

In India, work permit applications can be submitted through one of two routes.

• The applicant may apply to the Indian Embassy or High Commission in his or her country of residence, or as is more often the case,
• An Indian company offering a position of employment can begin the application process in India on behalf of the candidate. Like a UK work permit application, this employer led route is the usual route to obtaining an Indian work permit.

In cases where a firm offer of employment from an Indian company is in place, applications will need to be supported by a range of documentation including a completed application form and a current valid passport with recent passport photographs.

In addition, it will be necessary to offer proof of residence and employment, along with documentation to confirm the Indian position of employment is being offered.

Intra Company Transfer

In India, visas can be applied for by employees of a foreign company who need to transfer to an Indian branch of the same organisation.

The Intra Company Transfer is designed to allow the movement of crucial employees between international branches of a company.

The guidelines for this type of Indian visa are more loosely defined that in other countries, but in general, it is preferred that candidates possess a four-year university degree.

Intra company transfers or 'E' visas are granted on a case by case basis at the discretion of the Indian migration officer and will, as with work permits in general, take into account the availability of native Indian workers.

Spouse Immigration and Dependent Immigration

In India, work permits are commonly a long-term immigration solution, therefore immediate family members will be permitted to join the main applicant in India.

Immigration law requires any such dependents who wish to engage in employment to secure their own permit for working in India. Find out further information on our Indian Student Visa page.

Visit our online Indian visas assessment area today to assess your eligibility and to begin your application. A Global Visas migration consultant will respond to you shortly.