An Indian resume is often two pages for multinational employers and can run longer for public-sector or academic roles. Education, notice period, and current or expected compensation are commonly expected details.
Last reviewed 2026-10-25
At a glance
- Typical length
- 2 pages (MNC); longer in public sector
- Photo
- Sometimes, varies by employer
- Notice period
- Commonly stated
- Compensation
- Often requested separately
- Education
- Often detailed
What Indian employers commonly expect
For multinational companies and technology roles, a two-page reverse chronological resume is the safest default. It should lead with a short summary, then experience, education, and skills. For public-sector, academic, or traditional family-business roles, a longer format with more educational detail may be normal.
Recruiters often ask for notice period and current or expected compensation. Put the notice period on the resume if the posting asks for it; share compensation in the application form rather than volunteering a number on the resume.
- A summary that names the role and years of relevant experience.
- Employer names, titles, locations, and month/year dates.
- Degree, institution, and year; percentage or CGPA if early career.
- Notice period when the posting requires it.
Photo, date of birth, and personal details
Conventions vary. Some Indian employers still expect a photo and date of birth; many multinationals and technology companies prefer a resume without them. Check the posting and the company's own application format before deciding.
If you include personal details, keep them minimal: city, phone, email, and LinkedIn. Do not include a full home address, marital status, or identity numbers.
Make it readable for an ATS
A growing share of Indian hiring runs through applicant tracking systems, especially at larger firms. Use a single-column layout, standard headings, and a common font. Avoid tables, text boxes, and graphics that break text extraction.
Match the posting's terminology where it is accurate. If the role says 'Java Developer' and you are a 'Software Engineer' who writes Java, use the posting's term in your summary and keep the official title in the experience entry.
Common mistakes
- Including a photo and date of birth when the employer's format does not ask for them.
- Writing a four-page resume for a multinational technology role.
- Stating expected compensation without research or context.
- Using a table-based template that an ATS cannot parse.
Indian resume format FAQs
Should an Indian resume include a photo?
It depends on the employer. Some traditional and public-sector employers expect one; many multinationals prefer no photo. Check the posting, and default to omitting it for technology and global companies.
Is date of birth required?
Often requested in traditional formats, but not necessary for most multinational applications. Include it only when the employer's form or posting asks.
Should I state my notice period?
Yes if the posting asks. It is a practical screening detail, and stating it early avoids a wasted conversation.
How long should an Indian resume be?
Two pages for most private-sector and multinational roles. Public-sector, academic, and research applications may accept or expect more detail.
Resume examples for this market
Other country guides
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