Flexible Workspaces
India offers various business visa and residency permit options for foreign investors, entrepreneurs, and professionals looking to establish or expand businesses in the country. Below is a detailed breakdown of the available visa categories and long-term stay options:
2. Investor Visa (Long-Term Visa for Foreign Investors)
For significant foreign investments in India, applicants may qualify for a long-term investor visa under specific categories.
Eligibility
- Minimum investment of INR 10 crore (~$1.2 million USD) in a new company OR
- Minimum investment of INR 25 crore (~$3 million USD) over 3 years in an existing business.
Key Benefits
✔ Validity of 10 years with multiple entries
✔ Extendable in 10-year increments
✔ Family members (spouse & children) eligible for dependent visas
3. Work & Residency Options for Foreign Business Owners
Foreign investors looking for long-term residency in India have a few options:
Employment Visa (E-Visa) for Business Owners
- If you are managing or employed by your own company in India, you can apply for an Employment Visa (E-Visa).
- Must have a minimum salary of $25,000 per year, except for certain sectors like teaching or NGOs.
- Valid for 1-5 years, extendable.
Permanent Residency Status (PRS) for Investors
- Available for foreign nationals investing at least INR 10 crore (~$1.2 million USD).
- Initially granted for 10 years with an extension option.
- Allows free movement within India and access to banking & property investments.
4. OCI Card for Foreigners of Indian Origin
Foreign nationals of Indian origin (PIOs) or those whose parents or grandparents were Indian citizens can apply for an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card.
Key Benefits of OCI Status
✔ Lifetime visa-free entry to India
✔ No need to apply for a separate business visa
✔ Can own property and conduct business in India (except in certain sectors)
✔ Can stay in India indefinitely without renewal
Conclusion
India offers multiple visa pathways for foreign investors, entrepreneurs, and professionals to establish businesses. Business Visas (B-1), Investor Visas, Employment Visas, and OCI Cards provide flexible options based on investment size, residency needs, and business goals.
1. Business Visa (B Visa) for Foreign Investors & Entrepreneurs
A Business Visa (B-1 Visa) is granted to foreign nationals visiting India for business activities such as investment, trade, setting up a company, or attending business meetings.
Eligibility Criteria
- The applicant must have a genuine intent to conduct business in India.
- The company or organization they represent should be financially stable.
- The business activity should comply with Indian laws and FDI regulations.
Validity & Duration
- Can be issued for 1 year, 5 years, or 10 years, depending on the business activity.
- Multiple-entry visas are allowed.
- Each stay cannot exceed 180 days per visit without special permission.
Permitted Activities
✔ Setting up a company, factory, or branch office ✔ Attending business meetings, trade fairs, or exhibitions ✔ Exploring investment opportunities ✔ Partnering with Indian businesses or signing contracts ✔ Consulting with Indian firms on new ventures
Restrictions
🚫 Cannot engage in employment or receive a salary in India 🚫 Cannot work for an Indian company directly 🚫 Business visa holders cannot conduct journalistic or missionary activities
Required Documents
✅ Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity) ✅ Business invitation letter from an Indian company ✅ Proof of financial status (bank statements, business credentials) ✅ Company registration documents (if setting up a business)
2. Investor Visa (Long-Term Visa for Foreign Investors)
For significant foreign investments in India, applicants may qualify for a long-term investor visa under specific categories.
Eligibility
- Minimum investment of INR 10 crore (~$1.2 million USD) in a new company OR
- Minimum investment of INR 25 crore (~$3 million USD) over 3 years in an existing business.
Key Benefits
✔ Validity of 10 years with multiple entries
✔ Extendable in 10-year increments
✔ Family members (spouse & children) eligible for dependent visas
3. Work & Residency Options for Foreign Business Owners
Foreign investors looking for long-term residency in India have a few options:
Employment Visa (E-Visa) for Business Owners
- If you are managing or employed by your own company in India, you can apply for an Employment Visa (E-Visa).
- Must have a minimum salary of $25,000 per year, except for certain sectors like teaching or NGOs.
- Valid for 1-5 years, extendable.
Permanent Residency Status (PRS) for Investors
- Available for foreign nationals investing at least INR 10 crore (~$1.2 million USD).
- Initially granted for 10 years with an extension option.
- Allows free movement within India and access to banking & property investments.
4. OCI Card for Foreigners of Indian Origin
Foreign nationals of Indian origin (PIOs) or those whose parents or grandparents were Indian citizens can apply for an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card.
Key Benefits of OCI Status
✔ Lifetime visa-free entry to India
✔ No need to apply for a separate business visa
✔ Can own property and conduct business in India (except in certain sectors)
✔ Can stay in India indefinitely without renewal