Top 7 Countries Offering Easy Work Visas to Indians

What is a Work Visa?

A work visa is an official document that permits an Indian to work in a foreign country. A work visa is issued by their government once you secure a job or find a sponsor who will employ you in that country.

The eligibility criteria to get a work visa for Indian citizens vary from country to country. Indians usually choose to go abroad to work due to a better quality of life, better opportunities, and usually higher pay. Some of the common documents required to apply for a work visa include valid passport, identity proof, job offer, travel insurance, etc.

Top 5 Countries where Indians are Employed

As per the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, there are more than 13 million Indians abroad, including various labourers, professionals, and experts. The following table highlights the top 5 countries with the highest number of Indian workers.

Countries that Offer Easy Work Visas to Indians

Working in another country offers a brand new experience and, often, a lot more money. However, it's rarely a cakewalk. The competition grows daily with so many international students seeking job opportunities abroad. Add to this rigid visa procedures, immigration rules and complex eligibility criteria & you may want to consider your decision.

But fret not! Several countries have work visa programs that may be relatively accessible for Indian citizens. These countries don't have many rigid eligibility requirements, nor is their visa procedure overly complicated. Here are some of the best countries that offer an easy work visa to Indians:

United Arab Emirates (UAE)

The UAE offers various work visa options, including employment and investor visas, making it a popular destination for Indian expatriates.

Documents Required to Work in the UAE

You need the following:

• Application Form
• Valid Indian Passport
• 2 Passport-size photographs
• Employment Proof/Job Offer
• Educational Certificates
• Identity Proof
• GAMCA Approved Medical Certificate

Visa Fee for Indians

• UAE Work Visa Fee: AED 250
• UAE Support Worker Visa Fee: AED 250

The specific qualifications required can vary depending on the job position and the Emirate where you work. Having relevant educational qualifications, work experience, and specialised skills in demand can increase your chances of obtaining a work visa.

Pro-tip: If planning to work in Dubai, then make sure to buy travel insurance for Dubai. It is strongly recommended if you plan to stay there for a couple of years as it will keep you safe from financial emergencies.

Singapore

Singapore has a work visa program called the Employment Pass, which is available for skilled professionals and executives. Each work visa for Singapore has specific requirements, such as a minimum salary threshold and educational qualifications.

Documents Required to Work in Singapore

• Application Form (14A)
• Indian passport with at least six months' validity
• 2 passport-sized colour photographs
• Educational Marksheets
• Proof of Employment
• Business Plan (in case of a EntrePass)

Visa Fee for Indians

• Singapore Work Visa Fee: 30 Singapore Dollars

The Singapore Employment Pass has specific requirements, such as a minimum monthly salary, educational qualifications (usually a university degree or professional qualifications), and relevant work experience.

Canada

Canada has been known to have relatively accessible work visa programs for Indian citizens. The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) are some of the pathways to work permits and, eventually permanent residency.

Documents Required to Work in Canada

The documentation required for work visas in Canada can vary depending on the specific program you are applying for.

• Valid Passport
• Proof of Education
• Proof of Prior Work Experience
• Proof of Personal Fund
• Language Proficiency Test Results (such as IELTS or TOEFL)

Visa Fee for Indians

• Canada Work Visa Fee: Starting CAD 155

Qualification Requirements: The eligibility criteria for Canadian work visas depend on the program. For example, the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) assesses applicants based on factors like education, work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability. The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) requires skilled work experience in Canada, and the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) has specific criteria set by each province or territory.

Australia

Australia has several work visa programs, such as the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa, Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189), and Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190). These programs provide opportunities for skilled Indian workers to obtain work permits and potentially migrate to Australia permanently an Australian work visa.

Documents Required

Documents Required to Work in Australia

• Identity Proof
• Character Documents
• Language Competency Proof
• Skill Assessment Document

Visa Fee for Indians

• Short Stay Work Visa for Australia: AUD 345 - AUD 650
• Temporary Work Visa for Australia: AUD 490 - AUD 4,770
• Permanent Work Visa for Australia: AUD 490 - AUD 4,770

Qualification Requirements: Australia has different work visa programs, each with its own requirements. For example, the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa involves demonstrating relevant skills and work experience, meeting minimum English language proficiency, and being nominated by an approved sponsor.

Germany

Among Germany's work visa program is the Job Seeker Visa, which allows individuals to stay in the country for up to six months to search for employment. Finding suitable employment can lead to a work permit and potential pathways to permanent residency.

Documents Required to Work in Germany

• Valid Passport
• Passport-size Photograph
• Academic Degrees
• Proof of Professional Experience
• Proof of Funds
• Valid Travel Health Insurance for Germany

Visa Fee for Indians

• Germany Work Visa: 90 EUR

Qualification Requirements: The Job Seeker Visa in Germany requires a university degree or equivalent qualification and proof of financial means. To obtain a work permit, you typically need a confirmed job offer from a German employer and evidence that a local candidate or someone from the EU/EEA can't fill the position.

Ireland

Ireland offers the Critical Skills Employment Permit, which aims to attract highly skilled individuals to work in occupations in demand in the country. Other work permit options are also available and Indians can apply for a suitable Ireland work visa.

Documents Required to Work in Ireland

• Passport
• Passport Photographs
• Medical or Travel Insurance
• Application Letter
• Employment Permit from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment
• Contract of Employment
• Letter from Employer in Ireland
• Educational Qualifications
• Proof of Finances

Visa Fee

• Single entry: EUR 60
• Multi entry: EUR 100

Qualification Requirements: Ireland's Critical Skills Employment Permit is typically granted for occupations in demand. It may require specific qualifications, work experience, or professional skills. Other work permit options may have different criteria.

Malaysia

Malaysia has work visa programs such as the Employment Pass and Professional Visit Pass, which allow foreign workers, including Indians, to work in various sectors in the country.

Documents Required to Work in Malaysia

• Valid Indian Passport
• Employment Contract
• Proof of Finances
• Recent Passport Size Photograph

Visa Fee

• Employment Pass (EP): MYR 2,000
• Professional Visit Pass (PVP): MYR 1200
• Dependant Pass (DP) /Long Term Social Visit Pass: MYR 500

Qualification Requirements: The qualifications depend on the job position and the Malaysian government's guidelines. Employers in Malaysia often need to prove that a local candidate cannot fill the job and that the employee's skills and expertise are required.

*Disclaimer- All the information above regarding the required documents and work visa fee has been taken from official websites and is subject to change without prior notice.

Remember, these are general guidelines, and the specific documentation and qualification requirements can vary based on the type of work visa, the job position, and the country's regulations. It is always advisable to consult official government sources or contact the relevant embassy or consulate for the most accurate information.

Requirements for Work Visas

Depending on the country you plan to work in, you may need to fulfil some additional requirements. Here are some prerequisites that may be required for your employment visa abroad:

• Job Offer: In most cases, you will need a confirmed job offer from an employer in the country where you intend to work. The job offer may need to meet certain criteria, such as being in a specific occupation, having certain years of experience, or meeting minimum salary requirements.
• Qualifications and Skills: You must provide evidence of your qualifications and skills related to the job you are applying for. This can include educational certificates, professional certifications, or proof of work experience.
• Language Proficiency: Depending on the country and the nature of the job, you may be required to demonstrate proficiency in the local language. This can be assessed through language tests such as DHF, TestDaF, IELTS or TOEFL.
• Medical Examination: Many countries require a medical examination to ensure that you are in good health and do not pose a risk to public health. The specific medical tests and examinations needed can vary.
• Background Checks: You may be required to undergo a criminal background check to ensure that you have no criminal record or pose a security risk.
• Financial Requirements: Some countries may require you to provide proof of sufficient funds to support yourself and any dependents during your stay. This can include bank statements, employment contracts, or financial guarantees.
• Application Forms and Fees: You will generally need to complete the appropriate application forms and pay the relevant fees. These forms may require personal information, details of your job offer, and other supporting documents.

It is important to note that each country has specific requirements and work visa processes. Therefore, it is crucial to consult the official government website or contact the embassy or consulate of the country you are interested in for the most accurate and up-to-date information on work visa requirements for Indian citizens.

Over to You,

Remember, each country has its own specific requirements and procedures for work visas, including educational qualifications, work experience, job offers, and language proficiency. Moreover, many countries like Germany or Dubai may require you to buy international travel insurance with specific coverage. It is crucial to research and review the current immigration policies of any country you are interested in to understand the most recent regulations and eligibility criteria.