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How to hire employees in India
  • By Travis Kliever
  • Updated February 21, 2024
Travis Kliever
Travis Kliever
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Travis is a global business development advisor. He has spent the last 14 years supporting business establishment and development in North America, Southeast Asia, and throughout the world. With multiple degrees from the University of Oregon, Travis currently splits his time between the US, and Bali, Indonesia. At RemotePad, Travis writes about remote work, hiring internationally and PEO/EOR business models.
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How to Hire Employes in India

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Key Takeaways

  • To hire employees in India, it is crucial to understand India labor laws: Familiarize yourself with employment and tax regulations, which can vary by state, before you pay employees.
  • Advertise the job: Post the job on Indian job websites, newspapers, or through local recruitment agencies.
  • Interview and select: Conduct interviews and choose the best candidate.
  • Prepare an employment contract: Prepare a contract that complies with Indian labor laws, and onboard the employee.

When it comes to scaling a global workforce, one country that stands out as a prime destination is India (so no wonder “hire indian employee” is such a popular search term!) With its vast pool of highly skilled and cost-effective talent, a high percentage of which is used to working as remote employees or independent contractors, India offers a multitude of advantages for international companies looking to hire employees, with or without a legal entity in the country. From its thriving tech ecosystem to its robust educational infrastructure, India presents a unique opportunity to unlock potential and foster growth.

In this article, we explain how global companies can hire employees in India, facilitating innovation, enhancing productivity, and achieving a competitive edge in the global marketplace.

What are the legal requirements for hiring employees in India?

When hiring employees in India, there are several legal requirements that employers must adhere to. Here are some of the key legal requirements:

  1. Employment Contract: It is important to have a written employment contract with each employee. The contract should outline the terms and conditions of employment, including job role, responsibilities, compensation, benefits, working hours, leave entitlements, and termination procedures.
  2. Minimum Wages: Employers must comply with the minimum wage requirements set by the respective state or central government. Minimum wages can vary across states and are periodically revised. It is important to stay updated with the current minimum wage rates and ensure that employees are paid at least the prescribed minimum wage.
  3. Provident Fund: The Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) is a mandatory social security scheme in India. Employers with 20 or more employees are required to register with the EPF Organization and contribute a percentage of the employee’s salary (12% of basic wages plus dearness allowance) towards the EPF. The employee also contributes an equal amount.
  4. Employee State Insurance (ESI): The Employees’ State Insurance Act provides health insurance and medical benefits to employees. Employers with 10 or more employees (20 or more in some states) are required to register with the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) and contribute a percentage of the employee’s salary (1.75% of gross wages) towards the ESI. The employee’s contribution is 0.75% of gross wages.
  5. Gratuity: The Payment of Gratuity Act mandates employers to provide gratuity, a retirement benefit, to employees who have completed at least five years of continuous service. Gratuity is payable upon retirement, resignation, or death of an employee. The amount of gratuity is based on the employee’s last drawn salary and years of service.
  6. Statutory Leave: Employers must provide certain types of statutory leave to employees, including annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays. The number of days and eligibility criteria for each type of leave may vary depending on the state where your business operates.
  7. Labor Law Compliance: Employers must comply with various labor laws, depending on their state of operations, including the Industrial Disputes Act, the Payment of Bonus Act, the Payment of Wages Act, and the Shops and Establishments Act of the respective state. These laws govern aspects such as working hours, overtime, employment of women and children, termination procedures, and dispute resolution.
  8. Tax Deductions: Employers are responsible for deducting income tax at source (TDS) from employee salaries based on the applicable tax slabs and depositing it with the government. Employers must also issue Form 16, which summarizes the TDS deductions, to employees annually.
  9. Employment Visa (for foreign nationals): If you plan to hire foreign nationals, ensure they have the necessary work visas and permits to legally work in India. Familiarize yourself with the visa regulations and requirements, and ensure that all necessary documentation is in place.

It is crucial to consult with legal and HR professionals or seek guidance from experts well-versed in Indian employment laws to ensure compliance with all relevant legal requirements.

What mandatory benefits do Indian employees receive?

In India, the employment laws stipulate various mandatory benefits that must be provided to employees. These benefits are designed to ensure the welfare and financial security of the workforce. Here are the key benefits:

  1. Provident Fund (PF): The Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) is a retirement benefit scheme that’s available to all salaried employees. Both the employer and employee contribute a fixed percentage (typically 12%) of the employee’s basic salary and dearness allowance to the fund. This fund is managed by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO).

  2. Employees’ State Insurance (ESI): This scheme is intended to provide socio-economic protection to worker population and immediate dependent or family covered under the scheme. It is applicable to employees earning INR 21,000 or less per month (the threshold may vary). The contributions are made both by the employer and the employee.

  3. Gratuity: An employer pays gratuity to an employee for services rendered in the company for five years or more. The gratuity amount is based on the last drawn salary and years of service.

  4. Annual Leave: Employees are generally entitled to a certain number of paid annual leave days. The exact number can vary based on the company’s policy but is usually around 12 to 18 days per year.

  5. Public Holidays: Employees are entitled to paid leave on public holidays. The number of public holidays can vary by state and employer.

  6. Bonus: The Payment of Bonus Act mandates a bonus for employees earning up to a certain income threshold. The bonus is usually a percentage of the employee’s salary and is payable annually.

  7. Leave Travel Concession (LTC): Some employers provide Leave Travel Concession to their employees, which is an allowance for travel expenses during leave.

  8. Workmen’s Compensation: Employers must provide compensation in case of any injury, disability, or death caused by or during employment.

What are some cultural considerations for hiring in India?

When expanding your business to India and planning to hire foreign or Indian workers locally, understanding the cultural nuances of the workforce is crucial. India, with its rich diversity and unique work culture, presents various considerations that can significantly impact your hiring and management strategies.

Understanding Work Ethics and Attitudes

Indian professionals are known for their strong work ethic and commitment. However, it’s essential to understand the underlying motivations. In India, job stability, long-term growth opportunities, and company reputation often play a significant role in attracting top talent. Emphasizing these aspects in your job descriptions and interviews can make your offers more appealing.

Communication Styles

India’s communication style in professional settings often leans towards being indirect and high-context. This means that people may not always say ‘no’ directly to avoid confrontation. It’s important for employers to be sensitive to these subtleties in communication and learn to read between the lines. Creating an environment where employees feel comfortable voicing their opinions candidly can foster better understanding and collaboration.

Hierarchical vs. Collaborative Work Culture

The Indian corporate world is traditionally hierarchical, where respect for authority and seniority is deeply ingrained. While this is changing, especially in startups and multinational companies, many employees still expect clear direction and decision-making from their superiors. Understanding this dynamic can help in structuring your management and interaction approach.

Festivals, Holidays, and Work-Life Balance

India celebrates a plethora of festivals throughout the year, and these play a significant role in the lives of employees. Respecting these cultural aspects by accommodating festival holidays and understanding their importance to your employees can boost morale and foster loyalty.

Navigating the Diversity

India’s vast diversity in terms of languages, religions, and cultural practices means that a one-size-fits-all approach may not be effective. Being open to and respectful of this diversity can help in creating an inclusive workplace. It’s beneficial to have localized HR policies that cater to these diverse needs.

Training and Development

Investing in training and professional development is highly valued by Indian employees. Offering opportunities for skill enhancement, career advancement, and continuous learning can be a key differentiator for your organization.

By understanding and integrating these cultural considerations into your hiring and management practices, you can build a strong, motivated, and cohesive team in India. This not only enhances productivity but also ensures a harmonious and respectful workplace aligned with local cultural values.

How much does it cost to hire employees in India?

The cost of hiring employees in India can vary depending on several factors, including the industry, job role, location, qualifications, and experience of the employees. Here are some cost considerations to keep in mind:

  1. Salary: The salary of employees is typically the most significant cost when hiring in India. Salaries can vary widely based on the job role and the level of experience and qualifications required. Different industries and locations within India may also have different salary ranges. It is important to research industry standards and market rates to determine appropriate salary levels for the positions you are hiring for.
  2. Employee Benefits: In addition to the salary, employers in India are required to provide certain employee benefits, such as provident fund contributions, employee state insurance, gratuity, and medical insurance. These benefits are often a percentage of the employee’s salary and can add to the overall cost of hiring.
  3. Taxes and Social Security Contributions: Employers in India are responsible for deducting income tax at source from employee salaries and making contributions to social security schemes such as the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) and the Employees’ State Insurance (ESI) scheme. The exact amounts will depend on the employee’s salary and the applicable rates.
  4. Recruitment Costs: There may be expenses associated with the recruitment process, such as advertising job openings, conducting interviews, and using recruitment agencies or platforms. The cost of recruitment can vary based on the methods and resources utilized.
  5. Training and Onboarding: Depending on the nature of the job, you may need to invest in training and onboarding programs for new employees. This can include orientation, skill development, and job-specific training. The cost of training can vary based on the complexity and duration of the training programs.
  6. Administrative and Compliance Costs: Employers must comply with various administrative and compliance requirements, such as maintaining employee records, filing tax returns, and submitting reports to government authorities. These activities may involve additional costs, such as hiring accountants or payroll service providers.

It’s important to note that the cost of hiring employees in India can vary significantly depending on your specific requirements and the prevailing market conditions. It is recommended to consult with HR professionals or industry experts to get a more accurate understanding of the cost implications in your specific case.

What is the average employee’s annual salary in India?

Here is a table of the average annual salaries across sectors in India, according to websites like GlassDoor, Indeed, and PayScale:

SectorAverage Annual Salary (INR)USD Equivalent
Information and communication9,72,000$11,497
Financial and insurance activities8,81,000$10,409
Professional, scientific and technical activities8,34,000$9,855
Electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply8,13,000$9,600
Public administration and defense; compulsory social security8,06,000$9,540
Manufacturing7,05,000$8,339
Transportation and storage6,98,000$8,292
Wholesale and retail trade; repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles6,63,000$7,852
Construction6,22,000$7,392
Accommodation and food service activities4,83,000$5,735
Other service activities4,60,000$5,444
Education4,59,000$5,433
Human health and social work activities4,45,000$5,280
Administrative and support service activities4,31,000$5,109
Arts, entertainment and recreation4,14,000$4,909
Water supply; sewerage, waste management and remediation activities4,06,000$4,829

What are the key ways to hire employees in India, such as PEO and EOR solutions?

use a PEO to hire employees in India

When hiring employees in India, there are various ways to engage and hire employees. Three popular solutions are direct hiring,  PEO (Professional Employer Organization) and EOR (Employer of Record). Here’s an overview of these solutions and their key features:

1. Direct Hiring

You can open a subsidiary or register a branch in India, an then hire employees through that subsidiary or branch. This has the benefit of giving you a full business presence in India, but it is the most expensive and time-consuming of the hiring options.

2. Professional Employer Organization (PEO)

A PEO is a company or organization that provides comprehensive HR and employment-related services to businesses. When you engage a PEO, they become the co-employer for your employees. Here’s how it works:

  1. Employment: The PEO hires employees on your behalf, handling employment contracts, onboarding, and payroll.
  2. HR Administration: The PEO takes care of HR-related tasks, including benefits administration, employee records, compliance with labor laws, and statutory obligations.
  3. Risk Mitigation: PEOs can help manage compliance risks by ensuring adherence to local labor laws, regulations, and employment practices.
  4. Employee Benefits: PEOs often offer employee benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and other perks to the employees they hire.

3. Employer of Record (EOR):

An Employer of Record is a service provider that becomes the legal employer of your employees, taking care of all employment-related responsibilities. Here’s how it typically works:

  1. Legal Employment: The EOR becomes the legal employer of the employees, handling employment contracts, compliance, and payroll.
  2. Compliance and Administration: The EOR ensures compliance with local labor laws, tax regulations, and statutory requirements. They manage employee records, benefits administration, and other HR functions.

Both PEO and EOR solutions provide a range of services to simplify the process of hiring and managing employees in India. They can help streamline HR processes, ensure compliance, and provide support in navigating local labor laws. It’s important to evaluate different providers, consider their expertise, reputation, cost structure, and the specific needs of your business before choosing the most suitable solution. Consulting with professionals experienced in international employment and HR services can be valuable in making an informed decision.

Cost Elements: Own Entity vs. PEO/EOR

Cost ElementOwn EntityPEO/EOR
Setup CostsRegistration fees, Legal compliance, Office/infrastructure setup
Service fees (monthly/annual)
Ongoing CostsPayroll processing, Benefits administration, Statutory contributions (EPF, ESIC, PT, etc.), Professional fees (accounting, legal), Office/infrastructure maintenance
Service fees (payroll, benefits, compliance), Statutory contributions (handled by PEO)
SuitabilityIdeal for long-term commitments with large teams, Suitable for companies with specific control needs
Ideal for short-term or flexible workforce needs, Suitable for companies seeking faster setup and reduced complexity

What are the steps businesses need to take to hire employees in India?

To hire employees in India, businesses need to follow a series of steps to ensure a smooth and legally compliant hiring process. Here are the key steps involved:

  1. Determine Job Requirements: Clearly define the job role, responsibilities, required qualifications, and experience for the position you intend to hire for. This will help attract suitable candidates.
  2. Job Advertising: Advertise the job opening through various channels, such as job portals, social media platforms, your company website, or recruitment agencies. Provide a detailed job description and specify any essential qualifications or skills.
  3. Candidate Screening: Review the received applications and resumes to shortlist candidates who meet the required criteria. Conduct initial screenings, such as telephonic interviews or online assessments, to further evaluate candidates’ suitability.
  4. In-person Interviews: Schedule face-to-face interviews with the shortlisted candidates. Prepare a set of relevant questions to assess their skills, qualifications, experience, and cultural fit with your organization.
  5. Document Verification: Verify the authenticity of the candidates’ educational qualifications, work experience, and any other credentials they have claimed. This can involve contacting educational institutions, previous employers, or using background verification services.
  6. Employment Offer: Once you have identified the most suitable candidate, extend a formal employment offer. Ensure that the offer includes details of the job position, compensation, benefits, starting date, and any other relevant terms and conditions.
  7. Employment Contract: Prepare a written employment contract that clearly outlines the terms and conditions of employment. Include information such as job responsibilities, compensation, benefits, working hours, leave policies, termination procedures, and any other relevant clauses. Seek legal advice to ensure compliance with Indian employment laws.
  8. Onboarding: Once the candidate has accepted the offer and signed the employment contract, initiate the onboarding process. Provide necessary documents, such as offer letters, joining forms, and employee handbooks. Familiarize the new employee with company policies, procedures, and workplace culture. As part of the onboarding, employees should be registered with the authorities for compulsory employment contributions and taxes. 

It’s important to note that specific requirements and processes may vary depending on the industry, location, and size of your business. Consulting with legal and HR professionals experienced in Indian employment laws can help ensure compliance throughout the hiring process.

Hire employees in India — your next steps

Hiring employees in India means having a details understanding of employment regulations, market conditions, and specific cultural factors that impact on employment in India. To streamline hiring in India, many companies will benefit from a India PEO or India EOR solution.

Check out our India PEO and India EOR guides to find out who might be the best provider for you. 

FAQs

Yes, it is mandatory for employers in India to provide certain employee benefits. The most common benefits include the Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) and the Employees' State Insurance (ESI). The EPF is a social security scheme that requires employers to contribute a percentage of the employee's salary towards a retirement fund, and the ESI provides health insurance and medical benefits. The specific applicability of these benefits depends on factors such as the number of employees and the type of industry.

In India, the standard working hours are typically 8 hours per day and 48 hours per week. However, certain industries and states may have specific regulations regarding working hours. For example, some states may allow extended working hours under certain conditions, while others may have limitations on overtime work. It is important to consult the respective state's Shops and Establishments Act to understand the specific regulations applicable to your business location.

The process for terminating an employee's contract in India should follow the procedures outlined in the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947. The act provides guidelines for termination, including the requirement for prior notice or payment in lieu of notice. The notice period depends on the length of the employee's service and is typically 30 days. In case of misconduct or willful breach of employment terms, immediate termination without notice may be possible. It is advisable to consult legal experts to ensure compliance with the relevant laws and regulations during the termination process.

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