India's rapidly digitising economy, now the world's fourth largest, offers plenty of opportunities for skilled foreign professionals. With English as the language of business, it is easier for foreigners to settle in, build networks, and thrive
With a population of over 1.45 billion people, India's job market is highly competitive. Yet, companies are increasingly valuing foreign professionals who bring in-demand skills and fresh perspectives.
Beyond the workplace, India is a country that captivates at every turn - blending rich traditions, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty.
Whether it's savoring Delhi's famous street food, wandering through the majestic palaces of Jaipur, or unwinding on the sun-kissed beaches of Goa, there's something to inspire everyone.
For those looking to launch a career in a multicultural, fast-paced, and rapidly evolving environment, India offers an unmatched opportunity.
Before travelling, check the latest foreign travel advice for India at GOV.UK.
Jobs in India
India's job market is thriving, with traditional sectors like banking, construction, and manufacturing continuing to grow.
Technology, startups, and new industries are booming, with emerging areas such as renewable energy, electric vehicles, financial technology, and AI creating exciting career paths.
Major industries hiring now include:
- banking and insurance
- construction
- ecommerce
- environment and sustainability
- information technology (IT)
- healthcare
- machinery
- petroleum
- steel.
Some of the biggest companies currently recruiting are:
- Accenture
- Amazon
- Cognizant
- Infosys
- Reliance industries
- Tata Consultancy Services (TCS).
These companies are popular because they offer training, career growth, and sometimes even global opportunities. They're especially great for graduates looking to build solid experience early on.
Where you work in India also influences your career prospects:
- Bengaluru is the hub for technology and startups
- Delhi NCR offers government and consulting roles
- Goa focuses on tourism, retail, and hospitality
- Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai are major technology and engineering centres
- Mumbai is the centre of finance.
How to get a job in India
Networking plays a significant role in finding work in India, but many opportunities are listed online. Popular job portals include:
Setting up alerts on these platforms ensures you can apply quickly for new openings.
Popular graduate jobs
- Education
- Engineering
- Financial services
- Healthcare
- Information technology
Recruitment agencies can also help, particularly if you're applying from abroad. Trusted agencies include:
Always research any agency before signing up and avoid those asking for upfront fees.
The application process is straightforward, typically requiring a CV and cover letter. Shortlisted candidates may face one or more interviews - online, in person, or a combination - and some larger companies include group discussions, aptitude tests, or technical assessments.
Summer jobs
India offers a variety of meaningful summer work, volunteering, and gap year opportunities. Whether you want short-term work, cultural experiences, or volunteer projects, there's something for every interest.
You could join a summer camp programme in Goa, volunteer at an elephant conservation centre in Jaipur, or support community projects in Delhi that help street children.
To find summer jobs or volunteering placements, check out websites like:
- Go Overseas - Gap Year Programmes in India
- Indeed - Indian summer jobs
- PlanMyGapYear - Volunteer in India
- Volunteering India
These experiences are valuable for building skills, making friends, and immersing yourself in Indian culture.
Teaching jobs
Fluent English speakers will find plenty of teaching opportunities in India, whether paid or voluntary. International schools frequently hire foreign teachers, while volunteer programmes allow you to make a meaningful impact.
For example, the Teach India Programme, run by the British Council with The Times of India, places volunteers in schools in Mumbai and Delhi, where teaching takes place for around two hours a day, three times a week, over 100 days, with an eight-day preparatory training course.
Paid teaching roles are more competitive, with most schools seeking candidates who have at least a year or two of professional experience. Nevertheless, teaching in India can provide valuable international experience and a chance to explore the country. Platforms listing teaching opportunities include:
Internships
Indian companies, especially in technology, finance, and startups, often offer structured internship programmes, including live projects, mentorship, and training.
For students in science, engineering, or technology, IAESTE India provides placements in leading Indian firms, research institutions, and industrial labs. Organisations like AIESEC also offer internships across India in areas such as business development, marketing, and social impact projects.
Several India-focused platforms make finding internships straightforward:
Many internships in India are paid, particularly in IT, finance, and consulting, while non-profit or social impact roles often provide accommodation or travel support.
Summer and winter internships are especially popular among students, providing exposure to India's fast-growing industries while building professional experience.
Indian visas
The Migration and Mobility Partnership between the UK and India allows young professionals aged 18 to 30 to apply for a two-year visa, making it easier for recent graduates to gain international work experience.
Most jobs require an Employment Visa (E) and work permit, usually arranged with the help of your employer. If applying independently, you'll need a letter from your employer or sponsor. Business Visas last one to five years and cost around £567, while Employment or Project Visas range from £360 for six months to £467 for up to two years.
Visa rules can change, so always check with the High Commission of India in the UK or the Bureau of Immigration in India before making plans.
Language requirements
India is a multilingual country, with Hindi and English serving as the official languages. In addition, several regional languages are widely spoken, including:
- Bengali
- Marathi
- Punjabi
- Tamil
- Telugu
English-speaking graduates usually find work in the big cities, where English widely spoken.
How to explain your qualifications to employers
India's higher education system is comparable to the UK's, and most international degrees are recognised.
You can check the ENIC-NARIC website for guidance on how your qualifications compare in Asia and the Pacific.
What it's like to work in India
Work life in India varies by industry, city, and company. Offices are generally formal, and hierarchy is respected. The maximum working week is 48 hours, usually from 10am to 6pm, Monday to Saturday. Some modern companies, particularly in technology and startups, are shifting toward a five-day week.
Employees can expect 15 to 20 public holidays annually, with around 18 to 30 days of annual leave depending on the employer. India's cost of living is much lower than the UK - roughly 70% cheaper - though salaries are also lower. Working for multinational companies often provides higher pay and international benefits.
India offers a lower cost of living compared to the UK, but it's important to note that average salaries are also lower. For instance, the average monthly cost for a single person is approximately ₹67,036, (£564) while a family of four may spend around ₹153,446 (£1,289), excluding rent.
Salaries vary widely:
- entry-level jobs pay around ₹8,000 (£67) to ₹25,000 (£210) per month
- mid-level roles offer ₹25,000 (£210) to 50,000 (£420)
- senior positions can exceed ₹1.5 lakh (£1,260) per month
- top sectors like finance and consulting pay over ₹1 crore (£84,000) annually.
Larger cities like Bengaluru and Hyderabad generally offer higher pay than smaller cities.
Find out more
- Discover what it's like to study in India.
- Get advice on living and working in India from the Expat Network.