Best Countries to Work for Indian Students
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Studying abroad is another level of craze, especially among Indian students. In 2023, around 1.5 million Indian students went to study abroad across 70+ countries in the world. Most of the students who pursue education abroad have an agenda to gain experience in terms of work, either paid or unpaid and in some cases, to be able to bag a full-time job offer also after completing their education. But just then, a question arises - which is the best country to work for Indian students?
Some of the top-rated countries like the USA, Canada, Australia and others attract a lot of students because of their flexible part-time work options for international students. Read this article to learn about the top 10 countries to work for Indians which provide attractive salaries with good quality of life and good socio-cultural bond.
Best Countries to Work Ranking Parameters
In this article, we have listed the best countries to work for Indians based on several parameters such as:
- Countries with Highest Salaries
- Global Talent Competitiveness Index 2023 (Countries that can attract, develop and retain talent – skilled people – can boost their competitive edge in the global economy).
- Countries with the best quality of life, and
- Countries with the highest happiness indices
To list out the best country for job opportunities, the data in the Global Talent Competitiveness Index 2023 and the countries with the highest salaries are taken on priority and the other two lists, i.e. the countries with high standard of living and the happiest countries in the world are taken as deciding and supporting data in making the final list of the best countries to work for Indians.
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At the end of this article, we have also provided the top skills (2023) which may help you get to the top heights of your job or get high-income jobs in other countries, the best countries to work for Indians.
Top 10 Countries to Work for Indian Students
The best countries to work in are given below.
1. Switzerland
Consecutively ranking at first position in the Global Talent Competitiveness Index report by INSEAD for a decade now, Switzerland indeed is the best country to work and live for foreign nationals. With the highest Human Development Index (Source: World Population Review), Switzerland is also one of the richest and happiest countries in the world that also has one of the strongest currencies and the best education system in the world. As a demand, the cost of living in Switzerland also comes off very high
Students/graduates moving abroad for work can also leverage the scenic beauty of this one of the top countries to work in the world. Some of the best places to visit in Switzerland include Geneva, Zurich, Interlaken and Lucerne.
To apply for a work visa in Switzerland, you will be required to pay a non-refundable amount of ₹7000/- along with the following documents at the Embassy of Switzerland in New Delhi:
- A recent photograph
- An original valid passport
- Long-stay visa application
- Cantonal authority issued authorisation (either copy or original document)
Source: World Economic Forum, INSEAD
(Luxembourg = 11, Canada = 13, Iceland = 15 and Ireland = 12)
2. United States of America
Ranked third in the countries with the highest salaries list and in the Global Talent Competitiveness Index 2023, the United States of America takes the second position in our best countries to work in the 2024 list. However, due to several competencies, the USA takes a back seat and secures 23rd position in the World Happiness Report 2024 and the countries with the best quality of life ranking list.
Apart from this, the USA hosts many world-class universities that are ranked in the list of top universities in the world list from time to time. To apply for a work visa in the USA, you will be required to analyse which work visa will suit your requirements and then pay the required fee along with the following documents:
- A passport
- Two 2x2 photographs
- Civil documents
- Financial support
- Completed medical exam forms
Source: CEO World
(Singapore - 11, Finland = 15 and Australia = 13)
Also Check: Cost of Living in USA
3. Luxembourg
Next on the list of best countries to work for Indians and Indian students is Luxembourg. The country holds second position in the countries with the highest salaries list 2023, 11th in the Global Talent Competitiveness Index 2023 and eighth position in the World Happiness Report 2024.
The cost of living in Luxembourg is higher than in India but the high salaries offered take care of all the living and amusement expenses for the foreign workers. With this, the country provides a high standard of living and a high level of safety and security to its residents.
To apply for a long-term visa (to stay for more than 90 days), you will be required to submit a visa application with the visa fee ₹4412/- and the following documents:
- 1 recent passport-sized photograph
- Passport (must remain duly valid for a minimum of 3 months beyond your return date)
- Documents for authorisation (original or copy)
- Visa fee receipt
- Flight bookings/reservations
Source: World Happiness Report 2024
(USA = 23, Singapore = 30, Canada = 15 and Ireland = 17)
4. Norway
According to the Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration, good work-life balance and a focus on employee well-being make Norway rank among the top 10 countries to work. Along with this, Norway often constantly ranks among the 10 happiest nations, the top 10 nations with the best quality of life, the top 10 nations with the highest salaries, and the Global Talent Competitiveness Index 2023.
Even though the cost of living in Norway is high, the salaries offered are also competitive so the residents can lead a happy and satisfactory life. Alongside, the country is home to several tourist destinations such as Tromsø, Oslo, Lofoten and Nordland.
The major job sectors in Norway include engineering, oil and gas, and research. To apply for a work visa to work in Norway, you will be required to get a residence permit by submitting the residence permit fee of ₹48,127.
Source: US News
(Singapore = 21, Ireland = 15, USA = 23 and Luxembourg = 16)
5. Denmark
Indeed one of the top countries for employment opportunities, Denmark often books its space in the happiest countries in the world list; and this year, it is ranked in second position in the World Happiness Report 2024. With exceptional work-life balance, the country allows 52 weeks of parental leave and flexible work arrangements.
The top strengths of this country are its focus on social safety and citizen well-being which makes it the favourite country to live and work among many people across different nationalities. The Positive List Scheme helps in easy work visas and residence permits for skilled migrants and even opens several pathways to permanent residency.
Although the cost of living in Denmark is comparatively higher than other nations, they are easily compensated with the high salaries provided across various sectors such as engineering, life sciences and research. The Danish quality of living is exceptionally high, with excellent social programs, infrastructure, and a strong focus on equality.
Whether going for paid or unpaid work or seeking sideline employment, you will need to get a work visa for residence and a work permit in Denmark.
6. Canada
Canada is ranked in the sixth position in the best country for work opportunities list owing to its rank across several parameters, 13th in the Global Talent Competitiveness Index 2023 and 7th in the countries with the highest salaries list. The country encourages good work-life balance by emphasizing leisure time and family life. The Canadian is a multicultural and very inclusive society making the country often rank high in the Happiness Indices report.
The work visa application process is quite streamlined in Canada and offers the possibility of sponsorship for the family as well. The cost of living in Canada is a little higher than in India but the salary offered is also higher supporting residents in maintaining a good standard of living.
To work in Canada, two types of work visas can be availed -
- Employer-specific visa; which lets you work on certain conditions as mentioned on your work permit such as the name of the specific employer whom you can work for
- Open work permit; lets you work under any employer within the country.
In either case, you must pay a visa fee of ₹12,943.
7. Netherlands
The Netherlands is ranked at the top position in the best country to work for Indians because of several reasons. The country provides a high standard of living with excellent infrastructure, healthcare, and education systems. The country also boasts its multicultural society with most of it widely speaking in English. The Dutch Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment stresses the importance of personal well-being and constantly aims and works to bring in the work-life balance. Additionally, the Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant Permit offers streamlined procedures and pathways to permanent residency (PR) along with opportunities for sponsorship for families.
Constantly ranking high on the World Happiness Report, the Netherlands is moderately pricey for students to put up in except for a few cities like Amsterdam which are pricier than the others. However, to provide enough to manage the average monthly cost of living in the Netherlands, the salaries provided here are competitive in comparison to other countries with IT specialists, engineers, and finance professionals earning good salaries.
8. Finland
The shorter work weeks (around 37.5 hours, the rule is that the maximum work hours must not exceed 40 hours per week) pretty much describe why Finland has secured the top position in the World Happiness Report 2024. Not just that, Finland continues to secure a top position in other economic reports as well which makes it the best-suited country to work for foreign skilled migrants.
The country has a strong education system and the focus remains on social safety. The Finnish work permit allows skilled professionals to work in Finland, with pathways to permanent residency. However, bringing family requires meeting specific requirements.
To get a work permit in Finland, you will be required to get a residence permit which differs based on the type of work that you get employed for in Finland. You will be required to submit the following documents along with your work visa application to work in Finland, one of the best countries with good job opportunities.
- A valid passport
- A passport-sized photograph
- Coloured copies of the passport pages that contain data and of the page that contains the personal information of the applicant.
- Document showing that you are legally staying in the country from where you applied for a Finnish work visa or where you submitted your application.
Also Check: Cost of Living in Finland for International Students
9. Ireland
Ninth on the list of best countries to work for Indians is Ireland. The country promotes a good balance in maintaining a healthy work-life culture. The cost of living in Ireland is moderate to high which varies according to the city and can be easily managed with the high salaries that the employers provide.
The top fields of jobs in Ireland are software engineering and pharmaceutics. The people in Ireland are quite friendly and welcoming in nature which is why working migrants may fi in easily and engage in social gatherings.
The country boasts its scenic views by promoting several outdoor activities. The education system and the healthcare system are excellent and you may expect a little more casual work environment as compared to some other countries.
One can apply for an employment visa to work in Ireland after receiving an employment permit from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (DETE). To apply for a work visa to work in Ireland, you will be required to pay a non-refundable amount of ₹5403/- along with the following documents:
- Two recent passport-sized photographs
- Current passport and a full copy of all previous passports
- A signed application letter and the contract of employment
- Employment permit from DETE
- Irish employer’s letter
- Documents to act as proof of your qualifications
- Financial support
- medical/travel insurance
- Previous visa refusal information, if any
10. Australia
Australia continues to maintain its position in the happier countries in the world report, countries with the highest salaries report and the countries with the best quality of life report over the years. The country has beautiful natural treasures, suitable for people who wish to explore the hidden gems of nature. Home to exquisite flora and fauna, the country well deserves its spot in the list of best countries to work for Indians. The skilled migration work visa in Australia also opens pathways for permanent residence in the country.
Top Futuristic Skills for Jobs Abroad
According to a report by the World Economic Forum, as many as 50% of the employees will need to reskill themselves by 2025. Below are the key growth skills listed in the report for people who want to keep excelling in their careers and remain ready for futuristic job challenges. Working on improving these skills can get you any high-income job in one of the best countries to work for Indians.
| Top 10 Skills 2023 (For Career Growth, Reskilling) |
|
|---|---|
| Analytical Thinking |
Creative Thinking |
| Resilience, Flexibility and Agility |
Motivation and Self-awareness |
| Curiosity and Lifelong Learning |
Technological Literacy |
| Dependability and Attention to Detail |
Empathy and Active Listening |
| Leadership and Social Influence |
Quality Control |
Source: World Economic Forums
Read more about:
- Study Guide to USA for International Students
- Study Guide to Canada for International Students
- Student Guide to UAE for International Students
- Student Guide to Australia for International Students
- Student Guide to the United Kingdom (UK)
Best Countries to Work FAQs
Q. Is getting a Swiss work visa easy?
A. Yes, getting a Swiss work visa to work and live in Switzerland may be quite difficult for foreign applicants especially those belonging to non-EU countries. Only certain people with years of excellent working experience may work in Switzerland such as managers, specialists or university graduates. Although the number of work permits issued is lmited. Your duly filled Swiss work visa application will be submitted by your potential employer to the cantonal employment or immigration authority.
Q. Which are the top 10 countries with no income tax?
A. The top countries where you will not have to worry about paying taxes on your income are the Bahamas, Bahrain, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Kuwait, Maldives, Monaco, Nauru, Oman, Qatar, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Somalia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Q. Which is the best country to work abroad?
A. The best country to live and work abroad is Switzerland. Along with having one of the strongest currencies in the world, the country also has an excellent education system, and the highest salary and fosters a good work-life balance for a good standard of living.
Q. Which is the best country to make money?
A. Countries with the highest salaries and a strong currency are relevant for making the most money in your career. However, due to these benefits, one may face tough competition in getting a good job or even a work permit in these countries.
The best countries where you can make good money, given that you possess the relevant skills and qualifications for the local job market are the USA, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Norway, Denmark, Ireland, Australia, Netherlands, Singapore and Canada.
To ensure you get a high-income job in one of these best countries to work, make sure you do your research and consider things like:
- Strength of the country’s official currency
- Whether income tax is applied or not
Q. Which are the best countries to work in Europe?
A. The top 5 countries to work in Europe are Switzerland, Germany, Spain, Netherlands, and Norway. All these are highly-paying nations with stable economies so you won’t have to worry about uneasy work pressure and unhealthy competition in the work environment.
Q: What is the acceptance rate for NCI Ireland?
National College of Ireland is one of the best public research universities in the Ireland. The National College of Ireland is among the colleges that do not publish official data on the acceptance rate. However, as per some unofficial sources including EduRank, the National College of Ireland acceptance rate is 52%. This shows that NCI is moderately selective for admissions and international students may find it comparatively tougher to get into. Please note that, the data on the acceptance rate is taken from unofficial source, therefore, it is subject to vary.
Q: Is it worth studying at Melbourne Institute of Technology, Australia?
Melbourne Institute of Technology Australia (MITA) is largely regarded as one of Australia's top institutions. It has a solid reputation in engineering, business, and science.
To begin with, Melbourne Institute of Technology Australia provides a world-class education with an emphasis on hands-on learning. You will be able to gain practical knowledge and abilities in a range of disciplines. Furthermore, the institution provides a wide range of courses and programmes that will provide you with the skills and knowledge required for a successful profession.
Second, the university is well-known on a global scale. It has the highest graduate employability rate in Australia. This is due to the great level of education and possibilities provided by the university to its students.
Third, the university boasts a broad and vibrant culture. While learning, you will be able to pursue your hobbies and meet like-minded people. This will aid in the development of your professional chances and the formation of strong relationships that will continue long after you graduate.
Fourth, the institution provides a wide range of facilities and services to make your studies more pleasurable and productive. You will be able to locate
Q: Is Torrens University good for international students?
Torrens University Australia is one of the fastest growing universities in Australia. It offers a culturally vibrant and comfortable environment for international students. Each year thousands of international students from all over the world come to study at various courses of the university. currently, there are 3932 total students at Torrens University out of which 986 are international students.
Q: Is it hard to get into Newcastle University Australia?
The University of Newcastle is amog the universities that does not publish official data on the acceptance rate. However, as per some unofficial sources, the University of Newcastle Australia acceptance rate is 80%. This makes Newcastle University Australia moderately selective in admissions. Please note that the data on acceptance rate given above is taken from an unofficial source, therefore, it is subject to vary.
Q: Is MIT costly for Indians?
MIT is not costly for Indian students. Applicants can study BTech program at affordable tuition fees as compared to other BTech colleges in the USA. The MIT BTech fees is around INR 50 L to INR 52 L.
Q: What is the University of Luxembourg cost of living?
University of Luxembourg offers on-campus accommodation facilities to their students with various amenities. Listed below is the breakdown of the University of Luxembourg cost of living for international students:
| Particulars | Cost of Living |
|---|---|
| Housing | Euro 450 per month |
| Rent guarantee deposit | Euro 900 |
| Rent insurance | Euro 60 per year |
| Meals | Euro 360 per month |
| Telephone | Euro 40 |
| Books & supplies | Euro 400 per year |
| Activities (Outing, movies, sports, and more) | Euro 150 |
Q: How long does it take to get admission to Iowa State?
After submitting the application the Iowa State admission committee will review the application for admission on the basis of documents that applicants provide. A decision may require several weeks as it depends on the time of year the applicant submits the application (Applications submitted right before the deadline require a much longer processing time due to the volume of applications received then.). Applicants will receive an admission offer letter and the I-20 Form if admitted.
Q: How is studying at Mount Allison University in Canada?
Mount Allison University is one of the reputed universities in Canada that provides excellent programs and follows a brilliant academic culture. It ranked #1 for reputation and library expenses and second for student awards and faculty awards. Mt A is primarily an undergraduate Liberal Arts and Sciences university with over 2,300 students. Students from all over the globe are attracted to the university for its high-quality academic experience, hands-on learning opportunities, rankings, and small class size. The average class size at the university is 41 with student to faculty ratio of 16:1.
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