Country Profile: Indien

Initial Information for Employers in Europe Considering Recruitment of Skilled Workers

pexels-ketut-subiyanto-4307734
  • Form of government: Parliamentary federal republic
  • Area: approx. 3.3 million km²
  • Population: approx. 1.43 billion (as of 2024)
  • Capital: New Delhi
  • Economy: Leading global economy with strong service and technology sectors
  • Time zone: GMT+5:30
  • Currency: Indian Rupee (INR)
  • Demographics: Youngest large economy in the world — over 50% of the population is under the age of 30
  • Ethnic diversity: Highly diverse society with numerous ethnic and cultural groups
  • Urbanization: Major cities like Mumbai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad are economic hubs with a highly qualified workforce
  • Official languages: Hindi and English (used in administration and education)
  • Other languages: Over 20 official national languages and hundreds of regional dialects
  • Foreign language skills: Good to very good English skills among many graduates; German is typically learned specifically for migration purposes
  • Majority religion: Hinduism (~80%)
  • Other religions: Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, Jainism
  • Religious diversity: Religious tolerance and coexistence are deeply rooted in Indian society
  • General education: Mandatory schooling up to 10th grade; high enrollment rates but quality varies regionally
  • Higher education: Well-developed with numerous universities, technical institutes (IITs), and vocational training centers
  • Vocational training: Often lacks practical focus; preparatory training for the EU labor market is therefore beneficial
  • Skilled workforce: High number of qualified professionals in IT, healthcare, engineering, gastronomy, hospitality, and service sectors
  • Work ethic: High motivation, adaptability, and strong emphasis on education
  • Hierarchy: Tends to be hierarchical, but open to flatter structures abroad
  • Communication: Polite and often indirect; culturally adapted feedback is important
  • Flexibility: Strong willingness to migrate and adapt to new cultures
  • Language & Training: English is well established as a working language; German is taught during migration programs (A2–B1)
  • Mobility: High willingness to emigrate, particularly when long-term prospects are provided
  • Cultural integration: Successful integration possible with targeted preparation (language courses, cultural training, bootcamps)

India is a promising labor market for skilled workers with strong educational backgrounds and international orientation. Particularly attractive is the wide availability of motivated professionals in fields like engineering, healthcare, gastronomy, hospitality, and IT. Solid language foundations and cultural adaptability make integration into European companies easier.

India