India: Minimum Salary Level for Employment Visas Significantly Increased

The situation 

Effective immediately, the minimum annual salary threshold for Employment Visa eligibility has increased from INR 16,25,000 to INR 24,00,000. The revised threshold applies to new Employment Visa applications and Employment Visa renewal applications filed in India. 

A closer look 

The Ministry of Home Affairs has not published an official notification. However, the revised threshold has been observed in endorsements on recently-issued residence permits from the local Foreigners Regional Registration Office, and authorities have verbally confirmed the change. 

Background 

This is the first change to the minimum salary level in India since 2018. 

Impact 

Employers may need to increase salaries for affected foreign employees to meet the revised threshold, which represents an approximately 47.7% increase and could raise hiring and retention costs.  

Employers should review compensation for upcoming Employment Visa applications and renewals. 

Looking ahead 

Further eligibility information is expected in the upcoming official notification from the Ministry of Home Affairs. 

We will report on relevant developments once the official notification is released. 

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen.