Working in India
For transparency, AI has been used during the generation of this content, with every care taken to verify its accuracy. Last updated April 2026.
Average Salary
The average monthly salary across all sectors in India typically ranges from ₹25,000 - ₹35,000 (approximately $300 - $420 USD), though expats can expect considerably higher salaries.
For expats in senior, technical, or specialist roles – particularly within engineering, energy, and technology sectors – monthly salaries can range from ₹150,000 - ₹500,000+ (approximately $1,800 - $6,000). Highly experienced professionals or those in leadership positions within multinational organisations may earn considerably more, often with additional benefits such as housing allowances, relocation packages, and bonuses.
General information
Currency
Indian Rupee (INR)
Official language
Hindi English
Conversational languages
Bengali Telugu Marathi Tamil Gujarati Kannada Malayalam Punjabi
Time zone
India Standard Time (UTC+05:30)
Common types of Employment or Contracting
India offers a mix of traditional employment and flexible contracting arrangements, catering to both local professionals and expats across a wide range of industries.
Common types of employment
Common types of contracting
Already secured a job overseas?
If you have secured an assignment but are unsure of where to start with setting up as a Freelancer or B2B contractor, please feel free to reach out to our International team for assistance.
Living in India
India offers a rich and diverse lifestyle shaped by its mix of cultures, religions, and traditions. From bustling metropolitan hubs like Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore to quieter regions and coastal or mountainous areas, there is a wide range of living environments to suit different preferences. The country is highly multicultural and ethnically diverse, with each state offering its own cuisines, language, and customs.
The cost of living in India is generally lower than in many Western countries, though major cities – particularly Mumbai and Bangalore – can be relatively expensive for housing and international schooling.
- The average cost of a weekly grocery shop for a small family is ₹2,500 - ₹4,000 (approximately $30 - $50)
- Monthly rent for a 2 – 3-bedroom property costs anywhere between ₹25,000 and ₹100,000 ($300 - $1,200) depending on city, location, and property standard
- Private daycare costs between ₹8,000 and ₹30,000 ($95 - $360), depending on facility, location and level of care
- Fuel prices fluctuate frequently depending on regional and global oil markets. Petrol costs roughly ₹100 - ₹110 per litre ($1.20 - $1.35), while diesel costs ₹90 - ₹100 per litre ($1.10 - $1.20)
Vehicles in India drive on the left-hand side of the road. Expats can use an International Driving Permit (IDP) for a limited period, after which they may need to apply for an Indian driving licence. This typically involves submitting documentation, passing a driving test, and registering with the local Regional Transport Office.
Weather in India
India’s climate varies widely by region but is generally characterised by a tropical and subtropical climate with three main seasons: summer, monsoon, and winter. Summers can be extremely hot, with temperatures often reaching 35 - 45°C, particularly in northern and central regions. The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, and winters are milder, with temperatures typically ranging from 10 - 25°C.
Language and integration support
There is a range of language and integration support options in India, particularly in major cities where expat communities are well established. Government and community initiatives, as well as private institutions, provide language classes in Hindi and regional languages, along with cultural orientation programmes to help newcomers settle in. Many workplaces also operate in English, easing the transition for many international professionals.
For any translation needs - especially those required for work permit or visa applications - our dedicated Languages team is ready to support you. They provide accurate, timely translations and can guide you through the process to ensure all necessary documents meet the required standards.
Our services in India
Across the globe, we support energy and engineering companies with the international recruitment and global mobilisation solutions they need to extend their capability and grow their businesses.
Find out about our international services
Global mobility
NRL Recruitment simplifies international employee relocation with seamless global mobility services. From visa assistance to cultural onboarding, we ensure your staff transitions smoothly across borders, minimising disruption and maximising productivity.
Payroll solutions
Managing payroll across multiple countries can be complex, but our payroll solutions make it simple. We handle accurate, compliant compensation for your global workforce, ensuring employees are paid correctly and on time, every time.
Global employer of record
With our global employer of record services, you can legally employ staff overseas without establishing local entities. We manage compliance, contracts, and HR administration, giving you the freedom to expand globally with confidence and ease.
International recruitment
Finding the right talent worldwide is effortless with our international recruitment solutions. We connect your business with top-tier professionals, managing the end-to-end hiring process so you can focus on growth and strategic priorities.
