What Indian employers want from Europeans
Indian employers do not hire Europeans for jobs they can fill locally. They hire them for specific know-how, international experience and the ability to train a team.
Where European experience is valued
- Manufacturing start-ups: commissioning new lines and plants for European and Indian manufacturers
- Quality and certification: automotive, aerospace, medical devices and food safety
- Engineering and R&D centres: leading teams that work on global products
- Capability centre leadership: setting up and running in-house centres for European parents
- Specialist fields: precision machining, tooling, welding technology, process chemistry, packaging, sustainability reporting
- Design and luxury: brand, retail and product design for European brands in India
Types of contract
- Assignment from a European parent: you stay on your home contract with an Indian assignment; housing, schooling and tax are often covered.
- Local contract with an Indian or international company: salary paid in India, usually with fewer benefits; salaries for senior specialists can still be attractive.
- Short-term expert visits: for specific tasks; check whether a business visa is enough or an employment visa is required.
What Indian employers look for
- Hands-on experience, not only management
- The ability to train and build teams
- Patience and adaptability
- Willingness to stay long enough to make an impact, usually two years or more
Before you accept
- Make sure the role meets the employment visa conditions, including the salary threshold
- Clarify tax treatment and social security coverage
- Visit the city before you commit, if possible
