Employment Visas - LawQuest

Employment Visa

An Indian Employment Visa serves as a work permit for foreign nationals seeking to be employed by a company registered in India. It functions as an authorization that legally permits you to work within the country. This visa can be obtained from your home country, provided you have resided there for a minimum of two years prior to your application. The validity of the visa is typically for one year or the duration of your employment contract, whichever is shorter. If an extension of your stay is required, it is possible to renew the visa while in India. To do so, you must submit the application online with the respective Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) or Foreigners Registration Office (FRO) in the city where you are employed, where they will facilitate the process of extending your visa.

FAQs

Who is eligible for an Employment Visa?

Foreign nationals with a job offer from an Indian company or a company registered in India are eligible for an Employment Visa. The applicant must have the relevant qualifications and skills for the position offered.

Can I apply for an Employment Visa from any country?

You must apply for an Employment Visa from your home country or a country where you have resided for at least two years before applying.

Can my family accompany me on an Employment Visa?

Yes, family members such as spouses and dependent children can accompany the visa holder under a dependent visa issued under the appropriate sub-category (i.e. E-1X/E-2X/E-3X/E-4X).

How do I extend my Employment Visa in India?

To extend your Employment Visa, you must submit the application online at the respective FRRO/FRO in the city where you are working and have registered upon arrival in India. The FRRO will assist in the visa extension process.

Can I change my employer while on an Employment Visa?

Changing employers while on an Employment Visa is generally not permitted without prior approval from the relevant authorities in India unless the organizations are group companies or subsidiaries. A new Employment Visa will be required if the new employer is not a group entity or subsidiary of the current employer. Through our Employment Visa Services we provide expert guidance on this process.

Can I travel outside India while on an Employment Visa?

Yes, the Employment Visa usually allows multiple entries, enabling the visa holder to travel in and out of India during the visa’s validity period. However, it is important to register with the respective FRRO/FRO within arrival in India as stipulated on the Employment Visa and/or as required by the law if visa is valid for more than 180 days.

What should I do if my Employment Visa application is rejected?

If your application is rejected, you can seek clarification from the Indian Embassy or Consulate on the reasons for rejection and address any issues. You may reapply if the concerns are rectified.

Can I convert my Employment Visa to another type of visa?

Converting an Employment Visa to another type of visa is generally not allowed while in India. However, certain exceptions may apply, and this should be verified with the FRRO/FRO or relevant authorities.

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