Do you dream of working aboard in an exciting vibrant culture, making good money, at a lower cost of living and meeting lots of friendly people? Then working abroad in India is ideal for you.
Here’s why India should be at the top of your list, how to apply and get a great job, teaching post or internship.
India’s surging economy is creating lots of work and study opportunities for foreigners. It is a dream destination for expats who want to work abroad in an exciting country.
My neighbor in New York, right now, Crystal, is teaching English to children in India in the Rhodes Scholarship program. She loves it and says, “this experience has changed my life for the better, it’s opened my mind and heart in ways I never expected. India enchants me.”
Why Get a Job Abroad in India?
Table of Contents
6 reasons why India is a great place for expats to work.
1 – Strong economy
India is the ninth largest economy in the world. Prior to 1990, its economic structure was inspired by the Soviet Union, is divided into large public sectors, some practicing socialist principles.
Fortunately in 1991, India adopted more liberal economic policies and opened the free market which surged economy forward. Today economic experts estimate that India’s robust economy will surpass the United States’s by 2040.
2 -Variety of jobs available
Many industries and sectors have available jobs in India. These are the six majors types of companies:
- Agriculture
- IT – Information Technology
- Commerce & Entertainment
- Healthcare & Education
- Communication & Media
- Finance
The majority of foreign jobs in manufacturing are in the specialized, technical and management departments.
The fastest-growing industry is the high-tech IT sector, and it is the largest source for expat employment.
Another bright spot in India’s booming economy is the retail industry. These firms are looking for foreign management and logistic experts.
3 – Low cost of living
Another big plus to working in India is that the cost of living is much lower than many US and British cities. Although in some large cities, such as Mumbai, rents are almost as high as New York City, however, the majority of Indian cities housing costs are low, making the cost of living in India extremely advantageous to expats.
4 – Speak English
If you are a native english speakers it is easiest to move to a predominantly englishing speaking country if you are not fluent in other foreign languages. India is the second largest english speaking country with over 125 million English speakers.
However for most of those speakers it is their second language with Hindi being their first. Due to inconsistent schooling many Indians speak a type of dialogue called Indian English or known by the slang term “Hinglish”.
Moving to a country in which you can easily communicate, makes the transition from home to abroad much easier. You will fit in quickly and feel more comfortable in your new home than in a foreign language speaking country.
5 – Friendly People
The Indian people are well-known the around the world to be open and friendly – which is a real asset when you are new in town.
Expats living and working in India report that while the society is vastly different than their own, and the sometimes chaotic culture can be shocking, they are always made to feel welcome. The local attitude towards foreign residents is cheerful, in contrast to other global countries. In fact, 72% of expats rate the general friendliness of the population positively.
6 – Fascinating Country & Culture
While you are not working, India offers an unsurpassed riches of palaces, history, cuisine, wildlife and natural beauty to explore. India also boosts one of the seven modern wonders of the world, The Taj Mahal.
Considerations Before Working Aboard in India
While overall, working in India can be a fascinating adventure and a financially positive move, there are some considerations you will want to review carefully before accepting that lucrative job offer in India.
Working hours can be long and the schedules arduous, depending upon the company culture and work load of your new employer. The average work week in India is 48.2 hours as compared to 44.0 hours globally.
India may not be your best choice if you want to bring your children along. Family well-being in India ranks last place in 50th of 50 countries in a survey of expat insiders. Children’s services for health, education and leisure activities are rated poorly as compared to other foreign countries.
Learn more about India’s climate, government, tax system, medical care, shopping and real estate from expats here.
How to Get a Job in India as an Expat
Start by browsing our currently open jobs in India, and search by your desired city and chosen field.
Additionally, you could contact and apply to Indian employment agencies, Canadian or Indian divisions of US companies such as IBM or Canadian such as James Allen or international companies with branches located in India.
Also be certain to check out the Ministry of Labour and Employment website to access the Guidelines for Visa issuance. All foreigners who want to work in India need to adhere to this guideline. Another helpful government institutions websites is The Office Of The Labour Commissioner.
To begin your job in India, as a foreigner you must register with Foreigners Regional Registration Office within two weeks of your arrival in India.
If your visa is valid for more than six months, you still need to do this, no matter of how long you plan to stay in the country. Know that if you are staying for less than six months, you still need to register!
To get an immigration work visa will take about 90 days. In most cases your employment contract and visa will be issues the same time period. You can get more information here at the India Bureau of Immigration.
Are you ready to travel to and work in one of the most exciting countries in the world? Great then get started right away looking for your new expat job in India here.
About Peter C.
Peter is a digital nomad who largely writes from Asia, Europe, and South America. Always following the "vibe," he sets up shop in hostels and AirBNB's and continues to entertain us with wild stories from life abroad.
