Looking to hire international interns? Here’s what you need to know.

With globalization at its peak, there is a need for every organization to scale itself internationally. And what better way of doing so than having a team member with clear insights into another country’s culture! While hiring local candidates could seem perfectly fulfilling, there comes a time when you sense the need to branch out, to take your company to the next level. That’s when overseas interns can play a vital role. 

There is no denying that the process of hiring an international intern requires close attention and planning but this could be a worthwhile undertaking. Here we have listed down few reasons as to why international interns could be a great addition to your company. 

1. They have a great understanding of the markets, business practices, and cultures of a different country
2. They are less likely to quit the organization owing to the tedious procedures they undergo for getting the visa and visiting a new country
3. These interns hugely contribute in building the brand abroad by marketing the organization in their local market
4. They also offer a global perspective by bringing multicultural experiences and unique skills to the table

While hiring international talent could be exciting, it can be a cumbersome process as well if an employer is unaware of the legalities and other requirements that might come along the hiring process. To facilitate a smoother hiring process, we have enlisted a few handy tips that employers can keep in mind while getting a foreign talent onboard –

1. You must be aware that the students coming to India will require an intern (I) visa. For a clearer understanding of intern visa and its application procedure, you can go through this article on everything you need to know about intern visa.
2. Under the intern visa application, the employer (of a company/ educational organization/ NGO) must give a confirmation letter clearly indicating the period of the internship and a declaration ensuring the departure of the foreigner on completion of the internship. These letters must be on the company letterhead duly signed and stamped.
3. You must also keep in mind that the hiring process might take 1 to 2 months from the date of internship opening till the final arrival of the intern to India. So, it is always advisable to post the vacancy accordingly.
4. You must provide the interns with a briefing about the cultures and values that your company abides by. This will ensure that there is no culture shock when they come to India and can adapt to the culture and practices prior hand.

Well, you do not have to worry about these concerns if the posting is a work from home internship. All you need to do then is ensure that there are flexible working arrangements because the intern might be working in a different time zone than the normal working hours. Having a clarity on the time zone would lead to a hassle-free experience for both parties.

5. The language barrier is another issue while hiring international talent. It is always advisable to check whether you and the intern speak a common language.
6. The international payments can be easily done through international payment systems like Paypal or through international wire transfer to the bank account directly.

Now that you know hiring international interns helps organizations gain a competitive edge and the process of hiring them is not as troublesome as you thought, what are you waiting for? Young minds all over the world are brewing with innovation; post your intern requirement at Internshala and open the door to the magical world of Narnia (our Incredible India!) for them!

Picture credits: ueditec.com