Meltzer Hellrung’s global reach enables us to assist in securing visas and work permits to legally work in India. With an understanding of the country’s complex immigration laws and a strategic, service-oriented approach to client needs, we provide a seamless process and legally compliant solutions for businesses in a wide range of industries.

All foreigners visiting India for more than 180 days must register with the Foreigners’ Regional Registration Officer (FRRO). The main types of visas and work permits for India are described below, but the terms and restrictions vary depending on the applicant’s nationality. Some visas require FRRO registration for stays of less than 180 days.

Business visa: This visa allows applicants to travel to India for purposes such as business meetings, conferences, or negotiations but does not allow the employee to work within the country. It can be granted for single or multiple entries to India.

Employment visa: The E-visa allows foreign nationals to undertake employment in India and is granted for an initial period of six to 12 months and can be extended for up to five years. This visa category is granted to professionals filling specific skilled/management job roles and earning a minimum of USD $25,000 (subject to taxes in India). Dependents are allowed to obtain entry visas, known as an X-visa or dependents visa, which expire at the same time as the main applicant’s E-visa. Dependents with this type of visa are not allowed to take up any employment in India, but may enroll in educational establishments.

Journalist visa: All professional journalists and photographers who wish to travel to India for any reason, including tourism or to attend a conference, must obtain this visa. They are valid for up to a three-month stay in India and may be extended up to 12 months.

Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI): This option allows individuals of Indian origin to live and work in the country long-term. OCI cards are granted for life and allow visa-free travel with multiple entries for any duration without the need for registration with Indian authorities, but they do not confer the rights or responsibilities of full citizenship.

Meltzer Hellrung’s services include:

  • Full assessment of the applicant under existing visa laws and regulations

  • Assistance at each step of the process: visa application, work authorization, residence permit, extensions, renewals, etc.

  • 24/7 access to our case management system to track real-time status of applications and monitor upcoming expiration dates or other requirements

  • Document procurement for legalization, attestation, police clearance certification, proof of birth/marriage/citizenship, etc.

  • Accompaniment and assistance upon arrival in India

Contact is to learn more about how we can help streamline the visa and immigration process.