By the end of this guide, you’ll understand India’s revamped investor (business) visa rules, how to bring family members, ways to extend your stay, permitted activities and common pitfalls—plus insider tips not found elsewhere.

Relaxed Rules: Lower Investment, Longer Stays

In March 2024, India cut the minimum investment requirement from INR 25 million to INR 10 million and allowed business visas to be extended for up to 10 years without leaving the country, according to Fragomen’s analysis of the revised business visa regulations.

Business vs. Employment: Picking the Right Visa

Not all long-term stays are equal.
– Business Visa (B): For those looking to establish a company, explore joint ventures, attend trade fairs or technical meetings.
– Employment Visa (E): For professionals hired by Indian firms, usually requiring a minimum salary threshold.

The full list of visa categories is maintained by the Ministry of Home Affairs’ visa information portal.

Bringing Loved Ones: Dependent (Entry X) Visa

Your spouse and minor children can apply for an Entry (X) visa, valid for the same duration as your business visa and under identical conditions. They cannot work, but they may study up to secondary level while in India, as detailed by BLS International’s visa types overview.

In and Out: Multiple–Entry and Special Durations

Most investors receive a multiple–entry visa, letting you travel freely in and out of India during your visa’s lifespan. Durations vary by nationality—some passports qualify for up to 10 years, others for shorter periods—outlined by CIBTvisas’ India business visa requirements.

Extending Your Stay: Turnover and In-Country Extensions

You no longer need to exit India to extend your visa. To qualify for an extension, your company must achieve an annual turnover of at least INR 10 million within two years of establishment, according to Immigroup’s guide to Indian business visa extensions.

Activities Permitted (and Prohibited)

On a business visa you may:
– Attend meetings, conferences and trade fairs
– Recruit or train staff at regional hubs
– Conduct pre- or post-sales support

You may not:
– Execute contracts or provide hands-on project work (requires Employment Visa)
– Engage in manufacturing or other on-ground operations beyond exploratory or advisory roles

Details mirrored in official guidelines published by the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO).

What to Prepare: Documentation Checklist

Ensure you have:
1. Valid passport (six months minimum validity)
2. Company incorporation or registration documents
3. Bank statements showing investment capital
4. Letter of intent from your foreign parent company and a local partner or client
5. Proof of professional expertise (CV, certifications)
6. Recent passport-size photos

For the full list of required documents, refer to VFS Global’s documentation checklist.

Beyond the Visa: No Shortcut to Residency

India’s investor visa—even when extended—does not lead to permanent residency or citizenship. You’ll need to explore other routes, such as the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) scheme, which has its own eligibility criteria and does not grant voting rights or unrestricted property ownership, as outlined in the Ministry of External Affairs’ OCI cardholder guidelines.

Keep an Eye Out: Regional Variations & Updates

Processing times, fee structures and minor requirements can differ by consulate or visa-service center. The Ministry of Home Affairs may issue updates without broad notice—always verify details on your local consulate’s website or the Indian Visa Online portal.

Your Next Move

Armed with these insights, you’re ready to plan your investment journey in India. From choosing the right visa and preparing watertight documentation to understanding extension milestones, this guide will help you avoid surprises and focus on building your venture in one of the world’s fastest-growing markets.