Why are there no international law firms in India?

Asked by: Ms. Simone Kessler  |  Last update: October 14, 2025
Score: 4.4/5 (69 votes)

Ruby Singh Ahuja, senior partner at Karanjawala & Co., said, "The ambiguity and lack of certainty is the core reason for the reluctance of foreign law firms to operate in India. There is no clarity on the scope of practice allowed for foreign firms which is acting as deterrent at present."

Why are international law firms not allowed in India?

The BCI has the right to refuse to register any foreign lawyer or law firm if it is likely to become disproportionate to the number of Indian lawyers or law firms registered or allowed to practise law in the corresponding foreign country.

Is international law valid in India?

Applying International Law: The Committee noted that India follows the principle of dualism (that is, international law is not directly applicable domestically, and must be implemented through a law by Parliament).

Can an international lawyer practice in India?

Although permitted to practice in India, foreign lawyers must fulfill the eligibility criteria laid down by the Bar Council of India. To be eligible to practice law in India, foreign lawyers with a degree: Must be eligible to practice in their country. Must register with the Bar Council of India.

Is international law a good career in India?

The world is becoming increasingly interconnected, creating a growing demand for legal experts who specialize in international law. In India, the field of international law offers numerous opportunities for those with a passion for diplomacy, human rights, trade, and international relations.

Should India to Open Legal Market to International Law Firms

18 related questions found

What is the salary of international lawyer in India?

Employees who know International Law earn an average of ₹25.7lakhs, mostly ranging from ₹20.3lakhs per year to ₹50.0lakhs per year based on 19 profiles. The top 10% of employees earn more than ₹36.3lakhs per year.

Which law field makes the most money in India?

Corporate tax lawyers earn the highest salaries, ranging from Rs. 6 to Rs. 15 lakhs annually. On the other hand, individual tax lawyers tend to earn lower salaries, ranging from Rs.

Is a US law degree valid in India?

International Law Firms and Foreign Lawyers Can Now Practice Law in India. Foreign lawyers and foreign law firms can practice foreign law in India on a reciprocity basis, under the “BCI Rules for Registration and Regulation of Foreign Lawyers and Foreign Law Firms in India, 2022”.

What are the top law firms in India?

Top Law Firms In India
  • Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co.
  • Trilegal India.
  • Khaitan & Co.
  • J Sagar And Associates(JSA)
  • DSK Legal.
  • AZB & Partners.
  • Anand & Anand.
  • Vaish associates.

How to become an international lawyer in India?

How to become an international lawyer
  1. Complete an undergraduate degree program. Most law schools require you to have an undergraduate bachelor's degree. ...
  2. Complete practical legal training. ...
  3. Admission to legal practice. ...
  4. Practising certificate. ...
  5. Pass the Bar exam.

Is India a dualistic country?

India is known to be a dualist county regarding its implication with the International law. Formally at least, the application of international treaties and conventions rests with the Executive, while its domestic implementation requires Parliamentary sanction.

Can a non-lawyer be a partner in a law firm in India?

However, there are several starts up in India which start as a Partnership Firm, but after that, if the need arises, they form a Private Limited Company or Company. A non-law graduate can become a partner in such firms based upon his area of interest and expertise and venture capacity in a particular area.

Can law firms be international?

The vast majority of private sector lawyers practice in large international law firms. Some will practice in “boutiques” – firms that focus on a specific area such as real estate, sanctions, international trade.

Is international law available in India?

Studying International Law in India is a great choice, as there are 6 universities that offer Bachelor's degrees on our portal. Over 49,000 international students choose India for their studies, which suggests you'll enjoy a vibrant and culturally diverse learning experience and make friends from all over the world.

Can lawyers from India work in USA?

A foreign lawyer cannot provide legal services in the United States without being admitted to at least one state's bar. Exceptions may exist in some states for example, where foreign lawyers may apply for a license as a foreign law consultant.

Why can't lawyers advertise India?

The core reason behind the advertising restraint is to maintain the purity and dignity of the legal profession. By ensuring that lawyers cannot advertise in India, the legal fraternity aims to prevent any potential misrepresentation, exaggeration, or even false claims which could mislead clients.

What is the salary in foreign law firms in India?

Get feedback on your pay or offer

The estimated total pay range for a Associate Lawyer at India International Law Firm is ₹15.6L–₹16.9L per year, which includes base salary and additional pay. The average Associate Lawyer base salary at India International Law Firm is ₹2L per year.

Which law is highest in demand in India?

Corporate Lawyer

Corporate law is among the most lucrative and in-demand career options in law, especially in India's growing economy.

Are foreign law firms coming to India?

The legal landscape in India is undergoing a significant transformation with the decision of the Bar Council of India in March 2023, allowing foreign law firms to operate in the country.

Can Indians go to Harvard law school?

One of the first major requirements that Indian students must fulfil is completing their bachelor's degree programme. Harvard Law School states that your undergraduate degree should be equivalent to a US bachelor's degree to be eligible to apply.

Can American lawyers practice in India?

Recently, the Bar Council of India (BCI) has notified Rules for Registration and Regulation of Foreign Lawyers and Foreign Law Firms in India, 2022, allowing foreign lawyers and law firms to practice in India.

Are lawyers richer than doctors in India?

According to a survey in India, the earnings of a lawyer and a doctor depend on a variety of factors, such as the type of practice, the location experience etc but a doctor in India earns more than a lawyer, generally.

Can a lawyer be a millionaire in India?

Achieving millionaire status as a lawyer doesn't happen overnight. It requires strategic career planning, continuous education, and effective networking.

Do lawyers get paid a lot in India?

The salary range of entry-level lawyers in India varies between ₹22,000 per month and ₹70,000 and above per month. It depends upon experience and specialization.