Indian Immigration

Employees traveling to India must obtain either a Business Visa or an Employment Visa. Neither visa requires approval from within India; instead, each is obtained from the Indian Consulate in the employee’s home country.

Business Visas are typically used for employees visiting India to participate in training, giving presentations or meeting with colleagues. The employee must remain on home country payroll and not undertake “work” in India while traveling under the Business Visa. The Business Visa is usually valid for 6 months; however in special circumstances, the visa can be obtained for one year.

Employment Visas are required for employees who will undertake work in India or be paid by the local India operation. The application process requires additional documentation than required for the business visa including an Indian Employment Contract for the employee. The initial Employment visa will be valid for one year, and can be extended for additional years.

Most employees traveling to India with a visa/permit valid for longer than 6 months must register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) within 14 days of arrival. Certain nationalities and visa categories are exempt from the FRRO process and the expectation to register is typically stamped on the visa. FRRO offices are located in New Delhi, Calcutta, Mumbai and Chennai. In towns without an FRRO office the Superintendent of Police acts as the FRRO officer.

Details supplied by Emigra a global organization specializing in immigration services for corporations. More information can be obtained from Amanda Ward at ajward@emigra.com or +44 (0)7776 198312.

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