India Work Permits & Visas: Employer Guide to Types & Sponsorship

Looking to sponsor an international hire in India? This guide breaks down what employers need to know — from visa types to employer obligations and timelines. Whether you're hiring locally or relocating international talent, we've got you covered.

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Sponsoring a Visa in India: What Employers Need to Know

Are you an employer looking to sponsor international talent in India? Navigating India’s visa and work permit process can be complex — especially without a local legal entity or dedicated HR team.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about employer-sponsored work visas in India, including processing times, documentation, and local compliance rules. Whether relocating a team member or hiring locally, Playroll simplifies visa sponsorship through an end-to-end employer of record platform.

Key Takeaways

Employers must be registered with the Ministry of Home Affairs to sponsor foreign workers.

The work permit process generally takes 2 to 6 weeks.

Common work visas include the Employment Visa and the Tourist Visa for business purposes, with fees starting from ₹10,000.

Independent contractors must follow a separate process and generally do not require employer sponsorship.

Work permits are location-specific and job changes may require approval from the Ministry.

Who Needs a Work Permit in India?

Any foreign national (non-citizen) seeking employment in India requires a valid work permit or visa. Employers are responsible for initiating and supporting the work visa application process. This includes ensuring employees meet the necessary criteria and providing relevant supporting documentation, which we’ll unpack in more detail below.

Types of Work Visas in India

India offers various types of visas depending on the nature of work and duration of stay. Some of the most common types of work visas include:

Work Permit and Visa Type Description
Employment Visa (E Visa) The primary work visa for foreign nationals employed by Indian companies or multinational corporations with operations in India. Requires a minimum annual salary of USD 25,000 (except for NGO workers who need at least INR 10,000/month). Initially valid for one year, renewable annually for up to 5 years. Registration with FRRO required within 14 days if staying over 180 days.
Project Visa (P Visa) Specifically for foreign nationals working on projects in the power and steel sectors in India. Introduced as a separate category within the Employment Visa regime.
Intern Visa For foreign nationals coming to India to pursue internship programs with companies, educational institutions, or NGOs. Typically for a specific duration related to the internship program.
Journalist Visa (J Visa) Required for all foreign journalists, regardless of purpose of visit. Includes professional journalists, columnists, editors, photographers, film producers/directors, and representatives of media organizations. Valid for up to 3 months.
Entry Visa (X Visa) For specific purposes including short-term courses, unpaid internships, and family members of those holding other Indian visas. Also issued to Persons of Indian Origin and family members of Indian citizens.

Employment Visa (E Visa)

The Employment Visa (E Visa) is the primary work visa for foreign nationals taking up skilled employment in India. It is issued to professionals hired by an Indian-registered entity for roles that require specialized knowledge, senior-level expertise, or technical skills not readily available in the local labor market. It is typically issued for 1 year or the duration of the contract, with the possibility of extension up to 5 years.

Eligibility criteria include:

  • A minimum annual salary threshold (currently USD $25,000 or equivalent, with some exceptions)
  • A formal employment contract
  • The sponsoring company must be registered in India and provide proof of need for the foreign hire

Employers are responsible for providing offer letters, corporate registration documents, and justifying the foreign hire based on role requirements.

💡Best work permit option if: You are hiring skilled foreign professionals, senior executives, or technical experts into full-time roles at your Indian entity. It is the go-to visa for most long-term in-country employment.

Project Visa (P Visa)

The Project Visa is issued to foreign nationals coming to India to execute specific projects in sectors such as power, steel, infrastructure, and engineering. It is role- and project-specific, meaning it cannot be used for general employment. The visa is typically granted for the duration of the project or up to 1 year, whichever is shorter, and is non-renewable.

The hiring company must be an Indian-registered entity executing a specific contract. The visa application must include project documentation, the employee’s role description, and confirmation that the role is temporary and tied to project completion.

This visa is ideal for employers looking to hire foreign staff for defined, time-bound, technical assignments, especially where local talent is unavailable.

💡Best work permit option if: You are bringing in foreign technicians, engineers, or specialists to work on a fixed-term infrastructure or industrial project in India.

Intern Visa

The Intern Visa is designed for foreign nationals undertaking internships in Indian companies, NGOs, or educational institutions. The visa is valid for the duration of the internship or up to 1 year, whichever is shorter. There must be a minimum gap of one year between the completion of formal education and the start of the internship.

The host organization must issue a formal internship offer letter, and the intern’s role must relate to their academic background. The intern must also demonstrate sufficient financial support during their stay.

This visa allows employers to legally onboard international interns for training, research, or short-term functional exposure.

💡Best work permit option if: You offer international internship programs or exchange opportunities and want to onboard recent graduates for short-term assignments or early-career exposure in India.

Journalist Visa (J Visa)

The Journalist Visa (J Visa) is issued to foreign journalists, media professionals, and documentary filmmakers traveling to India for media coverage, including reporting, filming, or interviewing. It is valid for 3 months to 6 months, often with restrictions on travel to sensitive areas.

Journalists must declare their itinerary and seek additional permissions for specific activities or locations. The visa does not permit general employment in India and must be applied for with clear editorial intent.

This will likely be relevant if your company is a media outlet, production house, or broadcasting firm bringing foreign media personnel into India for specific assignments.

💡Best work permit option if: You are hiring or sending media professionals to India for short-term assignments like news reporting, documentary production, or interviews. Use this for non-commercial, editorial work requiring formal press credentials.

Entry Visa (X Visa)

The Entry Visa (X Visa) is a non-employment, non-tourist visa granted to foreign nationals for purposes such as accompanying family members of foreign employees, dependents of Indian citizens, or persons of Indian origin. In some cases, the X Visa may be issued to spouses or dependents of individuals working in India under an Employment Visa.

This visa does not grant the right to work, although some dependents may later apply for work authorization in specific cases.

While employers do not sponsor the X Visa directly, it’s important to support employees and their families with the documentation needed for smooth visa processing and settlement in India.

💡Best work permit option if: You are relocating foreign employees with families and want to facilitate dependent relocation as part of a comprehensive talent mobility strategy. Essential for long-term hires relocating to India for extended assignments.

Choosing The Right Hiring Path In India

When hiring talent in India, employers typically choose one of three pathways depending on the role, duration, & legal requirements. Below are the most common models.

1. Hire as an Employee (Sponsorship)

This is the most common route for companies hiring full-time foreign talent in India. To sponsor this visa, an employer (or Playroll as the Employer of Record) must have a registered legal entity in-country and issue a compliant offer of employment.

Key Employer Considerations:

  • Sponsorship is required — contractors or freelancers cannot apply under this visa.
  • Employees must remain in the approved work location unless authorized to relocate or change employers.
  • Processing timelines vary (approximately 2 to 6 weeks), depending on the consulate or embassy.

This is best for: Long-term roles with in-office or hybrid presence in India.

2. Hire as a Contractor

Independent professionals in India can legally work with international clients without employer sponsorship, but must comply with local tax registration and reporting laws.

With Playroll’s Contractor Management solution, you can:

  • Draft fully compliant local contractor agreements.
  • Automate contractor invoicing and cross-border payments, in Indian Rupee (INR) or USD.
  • Mitigate risk of permanent establishment and contractor misclassification.

This is best for: Freelancers, consultants or project-based roles, especially if the worker already lives in India.

3. Relocate or Transfer an Existing Employee

Transferring an existing team member to India? You’ll still need to navigate the same visa and payroll setup process. Even if the employee works for you elsewhere, a local employer of record is required to stay compliant.

EOR’s, like Playroll, handle all local steps, including:

  • Work permit sponsorship and immigration paperwork,
  • Registration with local authorities and payroll systems,
  • Enrollment in mandatory benefits and statutory schemes.

This is best for: Internal transfers or remote-first companies looking to expand into Asia, or talent retention offerings for global mobility programs.

Work Permit Application Process in India (Step-by-step)

In India, most foreign employees work under an Employment Visa supported by an Indian entity, rather than a separate work permit card. The process requires coordination between the employer in India, the foreign national, and the Indian mission abroad that issues the visa.

  • Step 1: The employer defines the role and confirms that it is suitable for a foreign national, typically at a managerial, technical, or highly skilled level with a minimum salary threshold as per current policy. The employer prepares a detailed job description, proposed salary, and justification for hiring an international candidate.
  • Step 2: The employer gathers corporate documentation to support sponsorship of the Employment Visa. This often includes the company’s certificate of incorporation, PAN details, proof of business activities, and, where applicable, sector-specific registrations or licenses to show that the entity is active and compliant.
  • Step 3: The employer issues a formal employment contract or appointment letter that clearly sets out the role, salary, location, and duration of employment. This document is a key part of the Employment Visa application and must align with Indian immigration policy, including any minimum salary requirements.
  • Step 4: The employee collects personal documentation such as a valid passport, photographs, educational and professional qualifications, and evidence of relevant experience. Depending on the case, additional documents such as police clearance certificates or medical reports may be requested by the consulate.
  • Step 5: The employee submits the Employment Visa application to the relevant Indian embassy, consulate, or outsourced visa center in their country of residence. They pay the applicable visa fees, provide biometrics if required, and may attend an interview or respond to follow-up questions from the mission.
  • Step 6: Once the Employment Visa is granted, the employee travels to India and, where required, completes registration with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) or Foreigners Registration Office (FRO) within the prescribed time frame. At this stage, they may receive a Residential Permit and must ensure that their address and employment details are correctly recorded.
  • Step 7: The employer and employee monitor visa and registration expiry dates and ensure timely extensions or changes, if permitted. Any change in role, employer, or location may require prior approval or a new visa, so both parties should seek up-to-date guidance before making significant changes.

Requirements and Eligibility for a Work Permit

Eligibility for working in India is primarily governed by the Employment Visa rules, which focus on the nature of the role, the salary level, and the qualifications of the foreign national.

Common requirments inlcude:

  • Professional or managerial role: Employment Visas are generally intended for highly skilled, managerial, or technical positions rather than routine or entry-level work. This is to protect the local labor market and ensure that foreign hires fill genuine skill gaps.
  • Minimum salary threshold: Policy typically requires a minimum annual salary for Employment Visa holders, excluding certain categories such as volunteers or specific experts. This threshold is intended to ensure that the role is genuinely senior or specialized.
  • Relevant qualifications and experience: The foreign national is usually expected to hold appropriate degrees, professional certifications, or substantial work experience related to the role. Consular officers may review these documents to confirm that the candidate is suitably qualified.
  • Valid sponsoring entity in India: The employer must be a legally established and compliant entity in India, such as a company, branch office, or liaison office. Authorities may request incorporation documents, tax details, and evidence of ongoing operations.
  • Clear purpose and duration of stay: The application should clearly state the purpose of employment, location of work, and expected duration. This helps authorities determine the appropriate visa validity and whether FRRO/FRO registration will be required.
  • Compliance with security and background checks: Depending on nationality, sector, and location, additional security clearances or background checks may apply. Applicants may be asked for police clearance certificates or other evidence of good conduct.

Work Permit Processing Time in India

Processing times for Employment Visas and related permissions in India can vary significantly based on the consulate, the applicant’s nationality, and the completeness of the file. Seasonal peaks and additional security checks can also extend timelines.

The typical processing time for a work permit or visa in India can vary depending on the type of visa, the specific Indian mission, and whether any additional clearances are required. Generally, you can expect the following timelines:

  • Temporary Residence or Work Permit: Employment Visas that allow medium- to long-term work in India often take around 3 to 8 weeks after submission of a complete application, though some missions may be faster or slower.
  • Permanent Residence: India does not commonly offer a straightforward permanent residence route linked directly to an Employment Visa, but long-term residency or similar permissions, where available, can take 6 to 18 months or longer due to extensive background checks and document reviews.
  • Short-Term Business or Work Visas: Business Visas for meetings, negotiations, or short technical visits may be processed in about 1 to 3 weeks after all documents are submitted, with some missions offering faster processing for straightforward cases.

Expected Processing Timeline: Employer vs Employee

From initial planning to the employee’s first day in India, both the employer and the employee have tasks that influence the overall timeline.

  • Week 1: Employer finalizes the role, confirms eligibility for an Employment Visa, and prepares the job offer or contract along with key corporate documents.
  • Week 2: Employee gathers personal documents, including passport, qualifications, experience letters, and any required police or medical clearances, while the employer issues formal invitation and support letters.
  • Week 3: Employee submits the Employment Visa application at the relevant Indian mission, pays fees, and provides biometrics or attends an interview if requested.
  • Weeks 4–6: Indian mission reviews the application, may request additional information, and issues the visa if approved; timelines can be longer if security clearances are needed.
  • Weeks 7–8: Employee travels to India, joins the company, and completes FRRO/FRO registration and Residential Permit formalities if required by the visa conditions.

Who Does What During India Work Permit Sponsorship?

  • Employers are responsible for: Defining the role, confirming that it meets Employment Visa criteria, issuing the employment contract, and providing accurate corporate documentation and support letters. They also help the employee with post-arrival formalities, monitor visa and registration expiry dates, and ensure ongoing compliance with Indian labor, tax, and immigration rules.
  • Employee is responsible for: Providing truthful and complete personal information, collecting and submitting all required documents, and attending any interviews or biometrics appointments. They must also comply with visa conditions, register with the FRRO/FRO when required, keep their passport valid, and notify authorities of any reportable changes.

Work Permit Renewal Periods in India

Employment Visas are typically granted for a limited period, often up to the length of the employment contract and subject to policy caps, and can be extended in India if conditions are met. Renewals usually require updated corporate documents, a continued employment contract, and evidence that the original eligibility criteria are still satisfied.

Because rules and practice may vary by location and over time, employers and employees should check current guidance from the Bureau of Immigration, FRRO/FRO, and the relevant Indian mission before planning renewals. Building internal reminders several months before expiry helps avoid gaps in status and ensures that both visa and registration documents remain valid.

What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in India?

Work visa fees in India vary depending on the applicant's nationality and the length of the visa.

Visa Type Application Fee
Employment Visa $200 - $400
Business Visa $150 - $250
Project Visa $300 - $500
Intern Visa $100 - $200

Note: The above fees reflect government fees for work permits and visas in India, and is not associated with Playroll's fees for visa support services. Please contact our team for detailed information on our visa support services.

Visa Requirements for Digital Nomads in India

Currently, India does not offer a specific digital nomad visa. Foreign nationals who wish to work remotely from India, even for an employer located abroad, must obtain an appropriate visa, such as a Business Visa or Employment Visa, depending on the nature of their work. Working remotely while on a tourist visa is not permitted.

Employers should ensure that their remote employees understand the visa restrictions and apply for the correct visa category. Violating visa conditions can lead to penalties, deportation, or bans on future travel to India.

Hire Global employees without hassle with an EOR solution

Expanding your workforce across international borders is an exciting step, but it can be a logistical nightmare to hire and pay employees in different countries. That’s the advantage of using a trusted Employer of Record like Playroll. They can:

  • Handle your international payroll: An EOR will act as your payroll provider, paying your employees on your behalf in the local currency. The company will also have in-depth knowledge of local tax codes, regulatory practices, and everything else that goes into managing global payroll.
  • Alleviate compliance concerns: Different countries each have their own federal and local laws governing employee payments. An EOR helps ensure that you are compliant with the unique set of laws for any country in which your company operates. This is extremely important since a compliance slip-up can result in heavy fines or even a lawsuit.
  • Hire and pay international contractors: Sometimes a particular project or role doesn’t require hiring a full-time employee. An EOR gives employers the flexibility to also hire contractors as needed, and avoid the potential for misclassification under local labor law.

Disclaimer

THIS CONTENT IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE LEGAL OR TAX ADVICE. You should always consult with and rely on your own legal and/or tax advisor(s). Playroll does not provide legal or tax advice. The information is general and not tailored to a specific company or workforce and does not reflect Playroll’s product delivery in any given jurisdiction. Playroll makes no representations or warranties concerning the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of this information and shall have no liability arising out of or in connection with it, including any loss caused by use of, or reliance on, the information.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Milani Notshe

Milani is a seasoned research and content specialist at Playroll, a leading Employer Of Record (EOR) provider. Backed by a strong background in Politics, Philosophy and Economics, she specializes in identifying emerging compliance and global HR trends to keep employers up to date on the global employment landscape.

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FAQs about Work Permits & Visas in India

Can Playroll sponsor a visa in India?

Yes, Playroll can sponsor work visas in India. As the legal employer, we manage the full visa process with local authorities — from documentation to approvals — ensuring your hire is compliant and ready to work. Whether you're relocating a team member or hiring in India, our experts will guide you step by step.

Want to get started? book a demo and we’ll walk you through the process.

What is the difference between a work permit and a work visa in India?

A work visa in India grants foreign nationals permission to enter the country for employment purposes. A work permit, typically linked to the work visa, refers to the authorization required to engage in employment activities. In practice, the terms are often used interchangeably, with the Employment Visa serving both purposes.

How long does it take to process a work permit or visa in India?

Processing times for Employment Visas and related permissions in India typically range from about 3 to 8 weeks for standard long-term work cases, assuming the application is complete and straightforward. Short-term Business Visas may be issued more quickly, often in 1 to 3 weeks, while any long-term residency or special clearances can take several months. Timelines vary by consulate, nationality, sector, and whether security checks are required. Peak travel seasons, incomplete documentation, or additional questions from the mission can all extend the processing time.

What are the requirements for sponsoring a work permit or visa in India?

To sponsor an Employment Visa in India, your company generally needs to be a duly registered and compliant entity with evidence of active business operations. You will usually provide incorporation documents, tax details, and a detailed employment contract or appointment letter that meets role, salary, and skill-level expectations under current policy. The foreign national must present a valid passport, qualifications, relevant experience, and any police or medical clearances requested by the consulate. Employers are expected to ensure that the role is genuinely skilled or managerial, pay applicable fees, and support FRRO/FRO registration and renewals where required. Practice may vary by consulate and over time, so it is important to consult up-to-date official guidance or local counsel before filing.

What types of work permits and visas are available in India?

India offers several types of work-related visas, including the Employment Visa for skilled foreign workers, the Business Visa for business activities, the Project Visa for government-related projects, and the Intern Visa for internships. Each visa type has specific eligibility requirements and validity periods.