The project visa is a specialised type of visa granted to foreigners entering India specifically to work on designated projects in certain sectors. This visa is primarily for individuals involved in projects within the power and steel industries. Individuals involved in occupations like engineering, IT, and building management song others typically qualify for this visa type.
What Is a Project Visa?
A Project Visa, often referred to as the P visa, is a special type of visa issued by Indian authorities specifically for skilled and highly skilled foreign nationals. This visa allows holders to stay in India solely for the duration of their involvement in designated projects, primarily within the power and steel sectors. This includes projects related to infrastructure and technology.
The visa is generally valid for the entire duration of the project, from initiation to completion or up to one year, whichever comes first. It is possible to extend the P visa for an additional year, subject to approval from the relevant state or union territory authorities. Further extensions are under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Home Affairs. Additionally, up to two chefs and two interpreters accompanying the project professional may also be granted a similar visa.
Key Requirements for a Project Visa
Now that we know what is Project Visa, let's understand the requirements that need to be met to obtain this special type of visa:
- Specificness of Project: The visa will be issued exclusively for the holder’s engagement in the project that has been specified. Right to work in more than one project is not granted by a single project visa.
- Type of Skill: It is specifically mentioned that unskilled or semi-skilled people cannot hold P visas. Only skilled/highly skilled workers are eligible for project visas.
- Accessibility: These visas restrict the residency and working of the foreign national to the location where the project is based.
- Responsibility of Conduct: The responsibility of the visa holder’s conduct during their stay depends upon the Indian company engaging them in the project.
- Registration with FRRO: Project visas that exceed a validity of 180 days mandate the visa holder to register themselves with the concerned Foreigners Registration Office within 14 days of their arrival in India.
Project Visa Documents
Applying for a project visa necessitates the possession of the following valid set of documents:
- Passport with at least six months of existing validity and two number of blank pages
- Passport size photos, according to the specifications of the country
- Duly filled in and signed project visa application form
- Letter of engagement on said project by the company, complete with signature and stamp
- Letter from company validating transfer of project to a foreign entity either wholly or partially
- Contract letter documenting the engagement of skilled foreigners
- Documents substantiating the educational and professional qualifications of the applicant
- Valid travel insurance policy
- All details of the project and implementing organisation, specifying project scope, duration, and role of the applicant
It is to be noted here that despite being a type of work visa, P visas differ from employment visas. While employment visas grant the right to work in any job across India subject to eligibility, project visas are rather strict in their grant of access to the visa holder, restricting their visitation as well as working requirements within the specified location.
Steps to Apply for a Project Visa
Since project visas are special permits granting entry to skilled foreigners for the exclusive purpose of working on company projects, the process of applying under this category also takes place through the company contracting the professional for the execution of the project. The following steps outline the process of applying for a project visa:
Step 1: Visit the official website of the concerned country’s consulate.
Step 2: Access the Project Visa application form and fill out the particulars without any error or omission. It is necessary to provide all the details as asked for. Failure to provide detailed information might result in delay or even rejection of your visa application.
Step 3: Submit your application along with all necessary documents at the consulate at a predetermined date and time of appointment.
Step 4: You will then be required to attend the interview and submit your biometrics.
Step 5: Pay the visa application fee and wait for your project visa to be processed.
Project Visa Processing Time
The processing time for a Project Visa application depends on several factors related to its purpose. It can take a couple of weeks or even a few months. Incorrect or incomplete information can cause significant delays, so it is crucial to ensure accuracy when filling out the visa application form. Once saved, the form cannot be modified, and even minor errors cannot be corrected. The form must be physically submitted at the consular office after applying online, signed, and accompanied by the required documents to initiate the processing.
The visa will be issued after the authorities have reviewed and approved the submitted paperwork. If needed, you can contact the consulate to check the status of your visa.
How Long Is a Project Visa Valid?
The validity of a Project Visa, a special multi-entry permit for skilled foreigners working on a company project, depends on the assignment's duration. It is issued for the duration of the project or for up to one year, whichever is shorter.
If the project extends beyond one year, the visa can be extended for an additional year, subject to approval from the state government or Union Territory where the visa holder is working. Any further extension beyond this period requires review by the Ministry of Home Affairs, which will deliberate and decide on the extension based on the project's timeline.
Conclusion
Project visas are special types of visas granted to highly skilled professionals, provided they meet all eligibility requirements. An international travel insurance policy can protect these visa holders from potential risks, including flight cancellations and lost baggage.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.