With GDP of $2,717 billion and growth of 7%, India ranks as the world’s 5th largest economy. It is also the 10th largest trading partner of the European Union. Its economy is driven by the dynamism of its domestic consumption and is based in particular on agriculture and the IT sector.  

Good to know :  

Language Spoken : Hindi, English
Local Currency : Indian rupee
Capital : New Delhi

The conditions for undertaking a Business France V.I.E in India

Do you already meet the International Young Talent Program criteria ?

Then, consult the table here!

- If your situation only meets ☼, you can try your luck for a V.I.E in India. Your application will be studied.

- If your situation meets at least 1 X, 😬 India cannot accommodate you in V.I.E. Don't be disappointed, continue your research! Other exciting destinations will seduce you!

Do you have any doubts about your eligibility ? Feel free to contact us.

The conditions for undertaking a Business France V.I.A in India

To go to India as a V.I.A, you must fulfil the access conditions to the  V.I.A.
The administration that is recruiting you is responsible for your residence permit.

Cultural work codes in India

With over 1.3 billion citizens, India is the 2nd most populous country in the world. Due to its linguistic, religious and cultural diversity, India is more like a continent than a country with uniform traditions. Thus each Indian region has its own social structure and state of economic development.

In India, the hierarchical position of each individual in society or in business is highly codified and very important. Even if this may seem counter-intuitive, do not treat everyone equally and you must absolutely respect hierarchical parity. Similarly, sensitive to protocol, Indians tend to exchange gifts with their partners. Choosing the right present can be difficult if you do not know the cultural and religious practices of your counterparts : as a general rule, avoid alcohol and food. 

Interpersonal relationships are very important in India. Physical or telephone meetings are preferred to emails. Do not get angry if the person you are talking to is curious about your personal life. For Indians, the harmony of the group, whether in the family, social or professional context, is crucial. In your mode of communication, favour an indirect approach, avoid getting carried away or contradicting the person you are talking to. As for physical contacts, bear in mind that they are highly codified in India. As a result, forget handshakes - unless you are invited - and prefer to greet by lowering your head, hands clasped under your chin, saying “namaste” or “namaskar”.

Finally, be patient ! This is a quality you will need to keep a cool head in India. Administrative delays, bureaucracy, infrastructure saturation... things can take time. So patience and good humour are major assets here !

Things that may surprise you in India

- As a continent country on our European scale, India is the world’s largest democracy, the 7th largest country and the second most populous country in the world, after China, and one of the oldest civilisations. It's enough to make you dizzy ! 

- But India is also several countries in one. Incredibly diverse, each State has its own language, food, cultural and religious practices and even its own laws. 

- Indian cuisine is definitely worth trying but be careful with spicy food. When you're not used to it, it's surprising! Are you a vegetarian ? Many Indians don't eat meat so you will be happy... and will discover new recipes !  

- In India, crossing a cow in the street is a non-event. And since it is a sacred animal, if you want to get past, be patient! She will have to leave when she chooses. More generally, it is perfectly normal to share public space with cows, goats, monkeys, chickens, even in large cities !

- Don’t be annoyed, if you’re asked for a photo or selfie !  In some neighbourhoods where locals aren’t used to seeing strangers, it’s not uncommon to have your portrait taken. It’s mainly a sign of curiosity ! 

- Contact with Indians is very easy ! So, feel free to start the dialogue. India has 22 official languages, but English is spoken by many people who often speak, in addition, at least two local languages. Incredible India !

- A “yes” in India can mean: “yes”, “no”, “maybe one day”. Rely on the Indian body language because non-verbal language is very important in India : a nod from bottom to top = yes / a gentle left-right nod = no. This can help you better understand the intentions of the person you are speaking with !

- Do you want to drive in India ? We recommend taking a taxi instead! Traffic and rules are very, very local.

- Taxi trips, guided tours, buying souvenirs... Remember to always discuss the price before starting any transaction ! 

- Meditation, yoga, ayurveda... India is the land of spirituality. There you may find the opportunity to take a spiritual journey or discover a Zen practice. What a contrast between this inner peace and the cacophony of the towns !