India Visas and Work Permits

India Visa

• All foreign residents entering India must have a visa.
• The main classes of visas in India are:
  - A tourist visa - intended for anyone who intends to visit India solely as a tourist. The visa is granted for a period of 6 - 12 months without any authorization for an extension.
  - Entry visa - intended for a number of entries into India on frequent occasions.
  - Business visa - intended for instances in which a foreign resident visits India for business purposes, including opening a business. The visa is usually granted for a period of 6 months from the date of entry.
  - Employment visa - intended for a foreign resident who intends to work in India. A letter of invitation from the employer in India should be provided.
• The visas are usually issued by the Indian representative offices in a foreign country. Applications may be made to the Ministry of the Interior in India for an extension of an existing visa.
• Young people wishing to study in India must obtain a "Student Visa".

India Residential Permits

• Foreign residents who wish to live in India for over 180 days must register with the Registration Office in India within 15 days of their entry to India.
• A medical certificate for AIDS is required.
• Residential permits in India are issued for a period that corresponds to the period of the employment visa.
  It is not necessary to obtain a work permit in addition.
• When the spouse of a foreign resident who holds a business/employment visa wishes to work in India, he/she must submit a separate application for a business/employment visa.