Work Visa Guide for Indians

Understanding work visas, employment permits, and sponsorship requirements for Indian professionals.

Common Work Visa Types

Employer-Sponsored

Your overseas employer sponsors your visa. Common for UK Skilled Worker, US H-1B, Canada work permits. The company must prove they cannot find local talent.

Graduate / Post-Study

Work rights after completing education abroad. UK Graduate Visa, US OPT, Australia Post-Study Work. Allows transition to employer-sponsored visa.

Intra-Company Transfer

Transfer within the same company to an overseas branch. Faster processing, no labor market test in many countries.

Key Documents for Work Visa

  • Offer letter / employment contract from the overseas employer
  • Degree certificates and professional qualifications
  • Experience letters from previous employers
  • Sponsorship certificate or CoE (Certificate of Employment)
  • Valid passport and photographs
  • Proof of salary / financial capability
  • Police clearance certificate (in some cases)

Work Visa Tips

Employment Letter

Your employer letter must be on company letterhead with clear job role, salary, and employment duration.

Valid Job Offer Required

You need a confirmed job offer with detailed terms: position, salary, duration, benefits. The offer letter must be on company letterhead with authorized signature.

Employer Sponsorship Documents

Your employer must provide sponsorship letter, company registration, tax documents, and proof they can sponsor you. Some countries require labor market testing.

Educational Credentials

Have all degrees and certificates attested. Some countries require credential evaluation from recognized agencies. Keep original and copies.

Professional Licenses

If your profession requires licensing (doctors, engineers, teachers), ensure your license is valid in the destination country. Some require local exams.

Work Visa Processing Time

Work visas take longer than tourist visas - often 2-6 months. Factor this into your job start date. Some countries offer priority processing for skilled workers.

Dependent Visa Planning

If bringing family, apply together. Dependent visas require proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificates). Each person needs separate application.