Working in India - Trek a different jungle
Not everyone is suited to an overseas posting but for the right candidate the experience is both rewarding and satisfying. Living overseas offers opportunities that cannot be matched by the more traditional business trip.
- - Live and learn in a different culture
- - Expand on previous travel experiences
- - Outstanding long term networking opportunities
Working in India can be a similar experience to any developed country or as different as can be imagined. The sector and organisation is key to determining the experience desired.
As with most countries, it is the responsibility of the employer to provide the justification for a working visa. Larger companies and multi-nationals will have human resources departments with the skills to organise this. Multi-nationals remain the best access to India, if a high standard of living is expected, unless you are fortunate enough to possess a commercial pilots licence or have contacts in the medical profession. Some smaller companies are beginning to recruit but the process is difficult and the cost of losing staff is high.
The alternative is to look at the voluntary sector and NGO's (Non Governmental Organisations). Several organisations exist that offer the opportunity to utilise all or part of your gap year for more altrusitic tendancies than getting a tan by taking volunteer work in India. A starting point might be the your embassy or high commission in India, VSO, peace corps or similar depending on nationality.
British High Commission – India
VSO Volunteering Page - UK
VSO - Canada
Just a reminder that India is a large (7th largest by land area) country, stretching 3,200km (2,000 miles) from north to south and the environment varies. Unless the position includes air conditioned accomodation we advise you to pick the location to suit your preferences. (see India at a Glance)
NRI and PIO status
Non Resident Indians (NRI's) and those with Person of Indian Origin (PIO) status do not need a work permit for India although for stays over 6 months will need to inform the Foreigners Registration Office.
The PIO scheme covers 4 generations and entitlement is extended to spouses of Indian citizens and PIO's. Please note that travel with a PIO card still requires a valid passport. Further details, including PIO rules, are available at your nearest Indian High Commission.
High Commission of India - London
High Commission of India – Ottawa
NRILinks.com
Foreigners Registration Offices
New Delhi : 1st Floor, Hans Bhavan, Tilak Bridge , New Delhi - 110002. Tel: (91 11) 3319489
Calcutta : 9/1, Gariahat Road , Calcutta - 700020. Tel: (91 33) 443301, 2470549
Chennai: 9, Village Road , Nungabakkam, Madras - 600034. Tel: (91 44) 8270549
Mumbai: 2nd Floor, 414 V.S. Marg, Prabhadevi, Mumbai - 400001. Tel: (91 22) 430133