Indian employers that are in need of overseas workers must sponsor them for a work visa. Obtaining a visa to work in India can be trickier than in many other countries, because the Indian immigration authority does not clearly define visa requirements and qualifications. It’s quite common for the Indian immigration authority to review applications on a case-by-case basis.

This visa grants the right to work in India on a contractual basis. The term can be extended periodically for one additional year.

Indian embassies or the foreign offices of the High Commission are responsible for processing the visa of anyone intending to work in India. The sponsoring employer can also facilitate the submission of visa applications of prospective employees. The documents required from visa applicants are, an application form, photographs of the applicant, passport, employment certificates or proof of employment and proof of legal residence in the origin country

The Intra Company Transfer (E) visa is another type of visa that grants aliens the right to work in India. The E Visa is intended for foreign nationals who are assigned to the Indian office or branch of their employer and it aims to facilitate the relocation of key employees of international companies. The requirements to obtain this type of visa are as vague as those of a regular permit.

Visa holders can bring their spouse and dependents to India. However, the right to work in the country is non-transferable, so dependents must obtain a work permit for themselves, should they want to work in India.