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Are you planning to make a permanent move to India? From rich culture to a deep history and diversity, India has featured on various lists of most sought-after destinations for people who have been making the decision to live elsewhere. Whether you are considering moving over for work reasons, education, or family relations, India ensures a fine blend of modern lifestyle with strong traditional values. But before making such a big move, it is crucial to understand the process and everything that comes with settling in a new country. In this ultimate guide, we’ll provide valuable insights into moving to India permanently, answer key questions, and help you make an informed decision.
Why Should You Consider Moving to India?
One of the first things that strikes the mind while considering relocation is: Is India a good place to live? The answer depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle. India, after all, is one of the largest countries, with over a billion people inhabiting it. The range of languages, cultures, and traditions is simply diverse, with something for everyone—city life, rural landscapes so serene, or cultural riches, all offered by India, among others.
Living in India will give you the opportunity to experience its vibrant festivals, culinary diversity, and social dynamics. The cost of living in India is much lower than in many Western countries, making it a popular destination for people who want to live an affordable life without sacrificing quality.
In addition, there is also a rapidly growing technology, health, and business sector that provides opportunities for professionals. For an enthusiast of a start-up or a technocrat or just someone looking to improve his career; India has so much in store for such people.
Moving to India Permanently: Step-by-Step Process
Moving to India permanently involves several steps that need careful planning. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to do to make your move seamless:
Visa and Immigration
The first thing you’ll need is a valid visa. India offers several types of visas, including tourist, student, business, and employment visas. If you will be staying in India permanently, then you might need to apply for an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card or Indian Citizenship depending upon your long-term plans. But an OCI card also allows you to live and work and own property in India without needing a separate visa. However, verify the eligibility criteria and ensure that you fit the visa or residency status requirements for which you are applying.
Finding a Place to Live
India has a wide range of housing choices, from modern apartments in the cities of Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai to quieter houses in suburbs and rural areas. What you choose will depend on your budget and lifestyle preferences. Renting a home is common, but if you plan to stay in one place for the long haul, buying a property might be in your best interest.
A key element would be to weigh factors of proximity to places of work and accessible routes to public transport, to stay secure. Every place in India would have its vibe, thus one should visit all places before moving into that space.
Culture Recognition
One of the most exciting aspects of moving to India permanently is immersing yourself in the country’s diverse culture. This country offers a melting pot of cultures, languages, and religious traditions, thus making it an interesting country to live in, although overwhelming at times. Understand the local customs, etiquette, and all that about Indian cultural nuances to facilitate smooth settlement.
It is worth mentioning that though English is widely spoken in cities, many people speak regional languages, which are a must to learn for smooth communication in rural areas. Cities like Mumbai and Delhi are more cosmopolitan, while places like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Punjab have distinct cultural identities.
Healthcare System
India is also a developing health sector where both public and private hospitals provide a huge number of services. In the city, you might find world-class hospitals like Bengaluru, Delhi, and Hyderabad, but you would be interested in private health insurance since health care charges might be different for each type of treatment.
Sometimes health care in rural areas may not always be available; therefore, it’s always essential to research the available health facilities in the place one intends to stay.
Cost of Living and Taxes
The cost of living and the tax burden should also be kept in mind. The cost of living in India is lower as compared to most of the Western countries, but it depends on the chosen location. Major metropolitan cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Bengaluru may be expensive, especially for the purpose of rent and utilities.
India also has a progressive tax system; therefore, you will be obligated to pay taxes on income earned if your stay in the country exceeds 182 days in the same year. Seek a tax adviser for consultancy on compliance.
Business and Job Opportunities
India is a great place for professional practices. The tech industry, too, is booming with the existence of Infosys, Wipro, and TCS. Entrepreneurship and the existence of startups are also promoted here through government initiatives for small business development.
However, the competition could be stiffer, and one would need to adapt themselves to Indian work culture. In India, networking or relationship formation has been found to play an important role in career building. Therefore, networking is extremely important in India.
Education System
For families that opt to move to India, the country’s education system is again a major deciding factor. India has international schools that function under different curriculum systems, including British IGCSE and American type of education. If your family has children, you must research the educational institutions near the place where your family may settle.
India also has some elite universities that make this country even a better education destination.
Legal and Financial Aspects
Before planning to move to India, proper knowledge about the laws and economics prevailing there is required. Proper documentation of legal and financial details, like tax papers or residence permit, is required.
You should also consider finance management. India’s banking system is modern and efficient but will probably be different from what you are used to. You will need to learn how to transfer money across borders and understand local banking practices to smooth the financial transition.
Final Thoughts
Moving to India permanently is an exciting and life-changing decision. From experiencing a new culture to exploring new career opportunities, India has something to offer everyone. Though, it is very important that you research, understand how you may face challenges here, and plan your relocation carefully.
Relocation services can be hired to make your transfer as smooth as possible. Companies such as India Relocation (PM Relocations) offers the services of a professional and can accompany you from giving advice to relocate to handling logistics, packing and even going through customs. We help you to navigate every step of the relocation process and see that your move to India is stress-free.
Whether you are moving for work, family, or adventure, India has endless possibilities. With all the essential details in mind before making the move, you will be well prepared to start your new life in one of the world’s most exciting countries.
