India has secured its position as one of the world’s most sought-after destinations to hire developers in India. Offering a blend of technical expertise, cost efficiency, and adaptability, Indian developers help global companies scale faster and innovate smarter.
In this guide, you’ll learn what a software developer is, what they do, and why hiring developers in India offers unmatched value for global businesses. We’ll also cover types of developers, hiring models, salaries, compliance rules, and how Asanify’s Employer of Record (EOR) service makes global hiring in India simple and compliant.
Table of Contents
- What is a Developer?
- What Do Developers Do?
- Why Global Companies Hire Developers from India
- How to Legally Hire Developers in India
- Step-by-Step Guide to Hiring Developers in India
- Salary Benchmarks for Developers in India
- What Skills to Look for When Hiring
- Legal and Compliance Considerations
- Common Challenges Global Employers Face
- Best Practices for Managing Remote Indian Developers
- Why Use Asanify to Hire Developers in India
- Conclusion
- FAQs
What is a Developer?
A developer is a professional who creates, builds, and maintains applications, systems, products, or platforms. In the tech industry, developers work across various domains such as web, mobile, cloud, AI, gaming, and more. Their role involves using programming languages, frameworks, and tools to turn business requirements into real-world solutions.
Key traits of developers:
- Technical expertise – Skilled in relevant programming languages, frameworks, and tools.
- Problem-solving mindset – Able to analyze issues and find practical, efficient solutions.
- Collaboration skills – Works closely with designers, managers, and other engineers.
- Adaptability – Stays updated with rapidly changing technologies and market demands.
What Do Developers Do?
The role of a developer extends far beyond coding. They are central to building digital products, improving user experiences, and driving innovation.
Core Responsibilities
- Requirement Gathering & Analysis – Understanding project needs and converting them into technical plans.
- Solution Design – Structuring systems, workflows, and user interactions.
- Implementation – Writing clean, scalable, and maintainable code.
- Testing & Debugging – Ensuring performance, security, and reliability.
- Deployment & Maintenance – Launching solutions and ensuring ongoing support.
Specializations Across Development
- Front-End Developers – Build user-facing interfaces for websites and apps.
- Back-End Developers – Manage server logic, APIs, and databases.
- Full-Stack Developers – Handle both front-end and back-end.
- Mobile App Developers – Create native and cross-platform mobile apps.
- Game Developers – Build engaging games for console, PC, and mobile.
- Data & AI Developers – Work on machine learning, analytics, and data pipelines.
Why Global Companies Hire Developers from India
As businesses around the globe have started navigating a more digital and interconnected world, the demand for remote work has increased significantly, especially after the pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted various talents, and in this evolving landscape, Indian developers have had ample opportunities to connect worldwide. Here are a few reasons why many global companies are hiring developers from India.
1. Cost Efficiency
One of the most compelling reasons why many global companies tend to choose Indian software developers is the cost efficiency they offer. The cost of hiring developers from India is significantly lower than that in any other Western country. This advantage arises from the lower cost of living in India, which allows developers to provide their services at a much more competitive rate.
2. Access to a vast talent pool
India boasts a large pool of skilled IT professionals, which makes it one of the top destinations for companies seeking specialized talent. The country also produces a lot of engineers and IT experts each year, which contributes to this extensive and diverse talent pool. This large workforce means that the organizations could find developers with specific skills that are required for their projects, whether it is their expertise in blockchain, AI, or mobile app development.
3. English Proficiency
English proficiency is another major factor that makes Indian developers a highly preferred choice for global organizations. It is one of the official languages used in India and the IT industry. Many Indian developers have strong communication skills in English, which tends to facilitate smooth collaboration with international teams. Effective communication is also essential for remote work as it helps in ensuring that project requirements are understood properly and executed as well.
Suggested Read: Hire Employees in India Through EOR
How to Legally Hire Developers in India
If you are a foreign employer looking to hire talented software developers in India then you get two options such as setting up a legal entity or to partner with an employer of record. Here’s what you need to know about the same.
Option 1 – Set Up a Legal Entity
This option involves establishing your own organization in India. While it does provide you full control over operation it is not as easy as it sounds. You will need to navigate complex organization registration process and understand the labor laws properly. This is one of the best options for those who are planning long term investments in India.
Option 2 – Use an Employer of Record (EOR)
If you wish to avoid the hassle of setting up a legal entity, then partnering with an EOR such as Asanify is one of the best options. Asanify acts as your Employer of Record (EOR) in India allowing you to hire developers quickly, pay them compliantly, and offer statutory benefits without setting up an Indian company.
| Option | Time to Hire | Cost | Legal Risk | Best For |
| Set Up a Legal Entity | 3–6 months | High (includes setup costs, ongoing compliance, and administrative expenses) | High (requires navigating complex local laws; non-compliance can lead to penalties) | Companies planning long-term investments and seeking full control over operations in India |
| Employer of Record (EOR) | 1–2 weeks | Moderate (service fees apply, but avoids entity setup and maintenance costs) | Low (EOR assumes most legal responsibilities, ensuring compliance with local regulations) | Businesses aiming for rapid market entry without the complexities of establishing a local entity |
Step-by-Step Guide to Hiring Developers in India
Hiring developers in India offers access to a vast, skilled, and cost-effective talent pool. To make the process smooth and compliant, follow these key steps:
Step 1: Define Your Requirements
Begin by defining your hiring requirements:
- Select the tech stack – e.g., React, Python, Node.js, or other relevant technologies.
- Determine the seniority level – entry-level, mid-level, or senior developers.
- Decide on project duration – short-term, contract-based, or long-term engagement.
- Clarify expectations – ensures streamlined sourcing, screening, and faster selection of the right fit.
Step 2: Choose the Right Hiring Model
When you hire developers in India, choosing the right hiring model is crucial for project success. Here are the main options:
Reduces setup risks and provides a cost-effective way to establish a dedicated offshore development center.
Full-Time Employees
- Work exclusively for your organization.
- Offer long-term commitment and deep integration with your team.
- Best for consistent workloads and strategic projects.
- Higher costs due to salaries, benefits, and overhead.
Freelancers
- Hired on a project or hourly basis for specific tasks.
- Ideal for specialized skills or short-term needs.
- Cost-effective but may lack availability and long-term commitment.
Contractors
- Engaged under a global contract for a fixed period or specific project duration.
- Provide flexibility and cost efficiency for short-to-medium-term requirements.
- Less integration compared to full-time employees.
Staff Augmentation
- Add skilled developers to your existing team via a service provider.
- Offers quick scaling and more control than outsourcing.
- Perfect for filling skill gaps or managing fluctuating workloads.
Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) / GCC Expansion
- Service provider builds and operates a Global Capability Center, then transfers ownership to you.
Step 3: Source Talent
To source top developer talent in India, leverage leading platforms and communities. LinkedIn is excellent for connecting with experienced professionals, while Naukri.com remains one of the country’s largest job portals. GitHub allows you to evaluate real-world code contributions, and communities like Reddit, Stack Overflow, and Discord help you engage with passionate developers. Actively participating in these spaces can help you discover high-quality candidates who may not be actively job hunting but are open to the right opportunity.
Step 4: Evaluate Candidates
A structured evaluation process is key to hiring the right developer. Begin with resume screening to assess relevant experience, certifications, and portfolios. Follow up with a coding test using platforms like HackerRank or Codility to gauge technical skills. Conduct multiple interview rounds, including technical (e.g., data structures, system design), behavioral (communication, collaboration), and culture fit (values, work style). This consistent approach helps minimize hiring bias and ensures alignment between the candidate and your existing team dynamics.
Step 5: Onboard and Ensure Compliance
Smooth onboarding is crucial for early productivity. Partnering with Asanify as your Employer of Record providers in India allows you to legally hire developers without setting up a local entity. Asanify manages onboarding, contracts, payroll, and statutory benefits, ensuring full compliance with Indian labor laws. This enables your developers to start contributing from day one, while you stay focused on building your product, without the legal complexities.
Salary Benchmarks for Developers in India
Whether you require a full-stack developer or a Python developer, the cost varies greatly depending on the location. Below is a detailed table showing how salary benchmarks change based on city and seniority level. Since Bangalore is more of a metro city compared to Indore, it costs more to hire there.
You can also use a Salary Calculator to quickly estimate pay scales for different developer roles and locations in India before making hiring decisions.
| Role | Seniority | Bangalore (USD/month) | Indore (USD/month) |
| Full Stack | Junior | $600 – $800 | $450 – $600 |
| Mid-Level | $1,000 – $1,500 | $700 – $1,000 | |
| Senior | $2,000 – $3,000 | $1,500 – $2,200 | |
| Python | Junior | $500 – $700 | $400 – $550 |
| Mid-Level | $900 – $1,300 | $700 – $1,000 | |
| Senior | $1,800 – $2,500 | $1,300 – $1,800 |
What Skills to Look for When Hiring
When you’re looking to hire a dedicated tech person in India, knowing what qualities are most important can make a huge difference. Here are four key things we suggest you look for:
- Strong Technical Skills: Find someone who knows the right computer languages (like Java, Python, C++, JavaScript) and tools for your project. They should also understand how software is built (like Agile or Scrum methods) and know how to use systems that manage different versions of code.
- Good at Solving Problems: See if they can think through tough problems in a clear, logical way and come up with clever solutions.
- Clear Communication: Make sure they can explain complicated tech ideas simply and work well with other team members.
- Quick Learner and Organized: Look for someone who can quickly pick up new technologies and adjust when project needs change, while also finding smart ways to solve problems for your global business. They should be able to prioritize their work and finish tasks on time.
Legal and Compliance Considerations
When hiring dedicated tech people in India, it’s really important to follow the rules to avoid problems. Here are key things to remember:
- Work Agreements: Create clear, written agreements that explain what the job involves, work times, pay, and any benefits. Make sure these follow local work laws and protect your company’s ideas.
- Following Basic Rules: You must stick to the rules about minimum pay, pension savings (provident fund), end-of-service payments (gratuity), and parental leave. Not following these can lead to fines or legal action.
- Tax Responsibilities: Handle payroll taxes (TDS) correctly and set up pay in a smart way to save costs while still following Indian tax laws.
- Ending Work Agreements: Follow state and national laws when letting someone go, regarding how much notice to give, any final payments, and fair treatment.
With Asanify these legal requirements could seem like a walk in the breeze. Asanify ensures contracts, benefits, and tax deductions are 100% compliant with Indian labor laws—minimizing your risk.
Common Challenges Global Employers Face
Hiring tech talent in India offers great chances, but it has challenges. Careful planning and local help are key. Here are common hurdles that employers face worldwide:
- Finding the Right People: India has many tech workers, but finding the perfect fit can be hard. A clear plan and expert help can cut through the clutter.
- Long Hiring Time: Sifting through many applications and interviews takes time. Using smart screening tools and local know-how can speed this up.
- Communication & Culture: Working across countries can bring misunderstandings due to different communication styles or work habits. Open talks and cultural awareness help bridge this gap.
- Paperwork & Legal Rules: Dealing with India’s work laws, taxes, and payroll is tough. Partnering with a service like Asanify (an Employer of Record) can handle all these rules for you, easing your stress.
These challenges might seem big, but with the right support, they are fully manageable.
Best Practices for Managing Remote Indian Developers
Managing your tech team in India from afar needs smart communication and teamwork. We’ve learned what works, so here are six simple tips:
- Talk Clearly: Use tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams for daily chats and video calls for face-to-face meetings.
- Organize Work: Use project tools like Asana or Trello to keep tasks organized and track progress together.
- Welcome New Hires: Have a good plan for new people joining, including how to set up tools and learn about your company.
- Work Smart: Use agile methods with regular check-ins and reviews to keep everyone focused on goals.
- Handle Time Zones: Find overlapping work hours and use messages or shared documents for things that don’t need instant replies.
- Build Team Spirit: Do online team activities, appreciate different cultures, and offer ways for growth to keep your remote developers motivated and happy.
Why Use Asanify to Hire Developers in India
Asanify is a leading EOR partner in India, helping businesses worldwide easily hire, pay, and manage their team members there. No matter where your company is based, we handle all the tricky bits so you can focus on growing your business. Here’s how we make hiring developers in India simple:
- Complete Hiring Support: We find and hire top tech talent for you, including checking backgrounds and handling new hire paperwork.
- Payroll and Tax Made Easy: We manage salaries, tax deductions, and make sure everything follows Indian tax rules, helping save costs too.
- Simple Legal Rules: We ensure full compliance with Indian labor laws, from contracts to benefits like pension funds.
- Great Employee Benefits: We provide health insurance and other perks to keep your developers happy and motivated.
- Smooth Setup: We handle contracts and even get equipment like laptops for your remote team, so they start working right away.
- Grow with Ease: Whether you need one person or a whole team, we offer flexible solutions, even helping set up your own offices in India. Start building your remote tech team in India with Asanify. Book a free consultation now.
Suggested Read: EOR India 2025: The Complete Employer of Record Guide
Conclusion
Hiring tech talent can be tough if you don’t know where to start. But in this blog, we’ve covered all the important things to look for when hiring dedicated developers, including the skills they need, how to find the right people, different ways to work with them, and the costs involved. Now you’re ready to make a smart choice!
You also know how to find excellent talent in India at better prices compared to Western countries. While the cost of hiring depends on things like location, specific skills, and experience, getting dedicated developers from India helps businesses find top talent without breaking the bank. Hiring developers in India offers unmatched value. With Asanify as your EOR providers, you get speed, compliance, and peace of mind. Let’s build your remote team together
FAQS
How much does it cost to hire a software developer in India?
The cost varies quite a bit depending on their skills, experience, and the specific city in India. However, it’s generally more affordable than hiring developers in Western countries.
Can I legally hire Indian developers without setting up a company in India?
Yes, you can. Many businesses use an Employer of Record (EOR) service like Asanify. They handle the legal and payroll side for you, allowing you to hire without setting up your own company there.
How long does it take to hire a developer in India?
It can vary, but generally, it might take a few weeks to a couple of months. This includes finding candidates, interviewing, and going through the hiring steps.
What are the most in-demand developer roles in India?
Roles like Full-Stack Developers (who work on both front and back end), Data Scientists, AI/ML Engineers, and Cloud Engineers are currently very popular and in high demand in India.
Do I need to offer employee benefits when hiring in India?
Yes, if you hire them as employees, you are legally required to provide certain benefits like provident fund contributions, gratuity, and maternity benefits, as per Indian labor laws.
Is it better to hire freelancers or full-time developers in India?
It depends on your project. Freelancers are good for short-term tasks or specific projects, while full-time developers are better for long-term commitment, complex ongoing work, and integrating deeply with your team.
How do I protect intellectual property (IP) when hiring Indian developers?
Always have a clear, legally sound contract that includes strong clauses about intellectual property ownership and confidentiality. Using an EOR service can also help ensure these agreements are compliant and enforceable.
What time zone overlap is possible with Indian developers?
Indian Standard Time (IST) has significant overlaps with evening hours in the U.S. and morning/early afternoon hours in Europe. This allows for effective real-time collaboration during parts of the day.
Can I scale my development team quickly in India?
Yes, India has a large and skilled talent pool, making it possible to scale your development team relatively quickly, especially when partnering with a hiring expert or EOR service.
What does Asanify do to simplify hiring in India?
Asanify acts as an Employer of Record, helping you find and hire top developers, manage their payroll and taxes, ensure legal compliance, and provide benefits, all without you needing to set up a local entity.
Not to be considered as tax, legal, financial or HR advice. Regulations change over time so please consult a lawyer, accountant or Labour Law expert for specific guidance.
