India’s growing economy attracts professionals in technology, engineering, education, healthcare, and more. To work legally in India, foreign nationals must obtain an Employment Visa (E Visa for Employment) before entering the country. This visa is typically granted to skilled professionals, technical experts, and senior managers.
This guide explains eligibility, the application process, key documents, and tips for a smooth experience.
1. Understanding the Indian Employment Visa
- The Employment Visa is issued to foreign nationals taking up paid employment in India with an Indian-registered company, organisation, or NGO.
- It is usually granted for 1 year initially (or for the term of the contract) and can be extended in India.
- Salaries must normally be at least USD $25,000 per year (exceptions exist for certain roles like teaching, NGO work, or ethnic chefs).
- Holders can convert their visa into a Residential Permit after arrival by registering with the FRRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office).
⚠️ You cannot work in India on a tourist or business visa. Doing so is illegal and can lead to fines or deportation.
2. Eligibility Criteria
You can apply for an employment visa if:
- You have a job offer or contract with an Indian employer.
- Your role requires special skills, technical expertise, or senior management experience.
- Your annual salary is above USD $25,000 (except for NGOs, teaching, or special roles exempted).
- Your employer is a registered business/entity in India with valid corporate documents.
Common recipients include:
- Senior executives, technical specialists, project managers
- Teachers/professors
- Foreign chefs with specialised cuisine skills
- NGO professionals with key skills
3. Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1 — Get a Job Offer
- Secure a written employment contract or appointment letter from your Indian employer.
Step 2 — Prepare Required Documents
Typically:
- Passport valid for 6+ months beyond intended stay
- Recent passport-sized photographs (white background)
- Signed employment contract/appointment letter
- Company registration proof (Certificate of Incorporation, PAN, GST, etc.)
- Employer’s support/invitation letter
- CV/resume and proof of qualifications
- Proof of salary (must meet minimum threshold)
- Proof of previous work experience (if requested)
- Additional documents for special sectors (e.g., NGO/teaching)
Step 3 — Apply Online via Indian Visa Portal
- Visit: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in
- Complete the online visa application form.
- Select “Employment Visa” as the category.
- Print the application and sign it.
Step 4 — Submit Documents to the Indian Embassy/Consulate
- Book an appointment (if required) and submit:
- Printed online application
- Passport & photos
- All supporting documents
- Visa fee payment receipt
- Some countries process applications through VFS Global.
Step 5 — Pay the Visa Fee
- Fees vary by nationality:
- USD $120–200 for most countries
- Additional service fees (if using VFS)
Step 6 — Wait for Processing
- Standard processing: ~5–15 business days (longer for complex cases)
- Some applicants may be asked for additional documents or an interview.
Step 7 — Enter India and Register with FRRO
- If your visa is valid for more than 180 days, you must register with the FRRO or FRO within 14 days of arrival.
- You will receive a Residential Permit allowing you to stay for the duration of your visa.
4. Typical Costs (2025)
| Item | Approx. Fee |
|---|---|
| Employment Visa Fee | USD $120–200 (varies by nationality) |
| VFS Service Fee | USD $10–50 (if applicable) |
| FRRO Registration | ~INR 2,000–4,000 (USD $25–50) |
| Document Legalisation/Apostille | USD $20–100 per document |
Many employers reimburse or cover visa and registration costs — check your contract.
5. Key Documents to Prepare
- ✅ Valid passport (6+ months) with blank pages
- ✅ Passport photos (white background)
- ✅ Signed employment contract/offer letter
- ✅ Employer’s registration documents (incorporation, tax IDs)
- ✅ Proof of qualifications (degrees, diplomas, experience letters)
- ✅ Proof of salary (contract showing above USD $25,000 threshold)
- ✅ Police clearance certificate (if requested)
- ✅ Medical insurance (recommended but not always mandatory)
🔑 Tip: Documents like degrees and police checks may need notarisation/apostille before submission.
6. Extensions & Renewals
- Employment visas can usually be extended in India by the FRRO or Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
- Extensions are usually granted for up to 1 year at a time (matching your work contract).
- Apply at least 60 days before expiry to avoid overstaying penalties.
7. Tips for a Smooth Application
- Apply early: Start the process at least 1–2 months before your planned start date.
- Confirm salary eligibility: Make sure your offer meets the minimum salary threshold or qualifies for an exemption.
- Use official channels: Apply through https://indianvisaonline.gov.in or your local Indian consulate’s official partner (e.g., VFS).
- Keep digital copies: Immigration offices often ask for soft copies of documents.
- Register with FRRO: Don’t miss the 14-day deadline after arrival if your visa is long-term.
- Health insurance recommended: Especially for long stays.
- Employer support: Work with your HR team — most Indian companies are familiar with the process.
Quick Pre-Departure Checklist
- Signed work contract with Indian employer
- Employment visa approved & stamped in passport
- Passport valid 6+ months
- Degree & work experience documents authenticated (if required)
- Police clearance (if requested by embassy)
- Proof of salary meeting USD $25,000 threshold
- Travel & medical insurance (recommended)
- Plan to register with FRRO within 14 days of arrival