IFS Salary 2025, Pay Scale, Perks, IFS Officer Salary Per Month

An IFS Salary begins from Rs. 60,000 per month. The attractiveness of IFS Salary is a significant motivation for aspiring to join the Indian Foreign Service. The IFS is renowned as one of the most prestigious Civil Services posts, maintaining its allure over time. The cumulative monthly salary for IFS Officers is ₹60,000, with grade pay ranging from ₹5,400 to ₹10,000. These officers primarily govern foreign relations and oversee diplomatic affairs in India.

IFS Salary Per Month

The starting monthly salary of an Indian Foreign Service officer is approximately ₹60,000 (Basic Pay + Grade Pay + Allowances). However, it's important to note that the salary of an IFS officer can vary based on several factors, including their level of seniority, the specific pay scale they fall under, and the country or location of their posting.

IFS officers also receive various allowances, such as Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Transport Allowance, and other benefits, which can further increase their overall monthly earnings.

IFS Officer Salary Structure

The salary of an IFS Officer is determined according to the seniority of the position.

IFS Salary with Special Foreign Allowance

A distinctive feature of the IFS salary is the additional allowance provided when officers are posted abroad, which significantly boosts their total earnings and makes foreign assignments particularly lucrative.

IFS Officer Salary - Perks and Allowances

IFS officers receive a range of perks and allowances in addition to their basic salary. These perks and allowances are provided to support them in their diplomatic duties and ensure their well-being, especially during overseas assignments. Some of the common perks and allowances apart from IFS salary include:

• Dearness Allowance (DA): It is a cost of living adjustment allowance that helps officers cope with inflation and rising living costs.
• House Rent Allowance (HRA): IFS officers posted in cities without official accommodation receive HRA to cover their rental expenses.
• Transport Allowance: This allowance is provided to cover the expenses of commuting between home and office.
• Special Foreign Allowance: Officers posted abroad receive this allowance, which varies based on the purchasing power parity of the country of posting.
• Foreign Service Special Pay (FSSP): IFS officers receive this pay as a special allowance to compensate for the additional responsibilities and hardships faced during foreign postings.
• Foreign Language Allowance: Officers proficient in foreign languages receive an additional allowance for using and maintaining their language skills.
• Furniture Allowance: IFS officers posted abroad are given an allowance to furnish their official residence.
• Leave Travel Concession (LTC): Officers and their families are entitled to LTC to travel to their hometown or any destination within India during their leave period.
• Medical Benefits: IFS officers and their families receive comprehensive medical coverage and insurance.
• Study Leave: Officers can apply for study leave to pursue higher education or specialized courses.
• Domestic Help Allowance: Officers posted in foreign countries may receive an allowance to hire domestic help for their household.
• Security Allowance: In certain sensitive postings, officers receive an additional security allowance.

IFS Officer Salary - Career Growth

The salary of IFS officers increases as they progress to higher positions in their career. They start as Third Secretary and move to Second Secretary upon confirmation of their selection. With time and experience, they can achieve promotions to various higher levels, such as First Secretary, Counselor, High Commissioner, Permanent Representative, and Indian Consulates Abroad. In India, they can hold positions like Under Secretary, Deputy Secretary, Joint Secretary and Additional Secretary, each with its respective IFS Officer Salary. 

IAS vs IFS Salary

The starting basic salary for an IAS officer is INR 56,100, to which various allowances like House Rent Allowance, Dearness Allowance, and Travel Allowance are added. Conversely, the IFS salary is approximately INR 60,000 per month, including all allowances. If an IFS officer is posted abroad, they may receive Special Foreign Allowance, potentially raising their salary to INR 2.40 lakhs, depending on the country of posting.

Learn More:

• How to Become an IAS Officer?
• IPS Salary
• How to Start UPSC Preparation from Zero Level?

IFS Salary FAQs

Q1. What is the salary of IFS per month?
Ans. The salary of an IFS officer ranges from ₹60,000 to ₹2.5 lakh per month, depending on the rank and location.

Q2. Who earns more, IAS or IFS?
Ans. While base salaries are similar, IFS officers posted abroad often earn more due to additional allowances.

Q3. Is IFS a stressful job?
Ans. Yes, the IFS can be stressful, particularly due to its diplomatic responsibilities and frequent relocations.

Q4. What is the highest post in IFS?
Ans. The highest post in the IFS is the Foreign Secretary.

Q5. Is IFS salary low?
Ans. No, the IFS salary is competitive, especially with foreign allowances during postings abroad.

Q6. Can an IFS officer earn in crores?
Ans. Yes, with foreign postings and allowances, an IFS officer's annual earnings can reach into crores.