Moving to India
Step-by-step Immigration Guide

India has become an increasingly popular destination for expatriates in recent times. As a result, it now hosts one of the world's largest expatriate populations. This comes as no surprise considering India's rapidly growing economy and affordable cost of living.
Furthermore, the country's diversity and population offer a unique way of life. If you're looking to join other expatriates in India, the following information will guide you through the essential steps of the relocation process.

Yes, you need a visa to move to India. Every individual planning to stay in India for more than 90 days (or 180 days for business visitors) must obtain an Indian visa. However, citizens of Bhutan and Nepal have the right to live and work in India indefinitely due to a freedom of movement agreement.

To move to India, you must obtain a long-term visa from an Indian embassy or consulate in your home country. India offers various long-term visas based on the purpose of your travel, such as for studying, working, and more. Additionally, to legally stay in India for over 90 days, you must apply for a residence permit and register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO).

Foreign nationals moving to India for work must hold an employment visa. This visa is typically issued to highly skilled or qualified professionals who have secured a job in India. After entering the country, you must register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office within 14 days of arrival, and your residence permit will be issued at that time. The duration of your stay in India depends on your job, with different categories such as:

• Foreign technicians/experts coming to India under bilateral agreements can stay for up to five years.
• Highly skilled foreign personnel in IT software and IT-enabled sectors can stay for up to three years.
• In other cases, the visa duration is generally up to two years or the length of the work contract.

However, you can extend your stay for up to five years at the Foreigners Regional Registration Office.

To move to India for educational purposes, you must obtain a student visa. This visa is granted to students pursuing regular and full-time academic studies at recognized educational institutions in India. Before applying for the visa, you must be accepted into an educational institution.

Upon entering India, you must register at the FRRO, and a residence permit will be issued to you during registration. With a student visa, you can stay in India for up to five years, depending on the duration of your academic program. If you wish to extend your stay beyond this period, you can do so at the FRRO.

Here are the pros and cons of moving to India:

Yes, you can relocate with your pets to India, but certain requirements must be met:

Conditions for Import:

• Pets must be microchipped with a 15-digit non-encrypted ISO 11784/11785 microchip.
• Dogs and cats require an import license issued by India's Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).
• All pets entering India must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Animal Quarantine and Certification Station (AQCS), which must be applied for in person by the pet owner.
• Pets must be vaccinated against rabies at least 31 days before traveling.
• Dogs should be vaccinated against distemper, Leishmaniasis, parvovirus, and leptospirosis.
• Cats should be vaccinated against feline enteritis and feline panleukopenia.
• Pets must have a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian.
• Pets must arrive in India within 30 days of your own move.
• Pets can enter India as checked baggage at specific airports or as air cargo in others.
• Pets entering India under transfer of residence may be subject to 14 days of quarantine.

Documents Required for Import:

• Your passport.
• Your pet's passport.
• Your visa.
• A return journey ticket.
• A health certificate issued by the veterinary authority in your name.
• Proof of the purpose of your visit.

Import Restrictions:

• Foreign nationals of Indian origin must have an Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) or Person of Indian Origin (PIO) Card to import pets to India.
• Foreign nationals moving to India for work or residence for at least one year can import their pets without a DGFT license.
• Certain breeds are banned from entering India, including American Bulldog, Bandog, Neapolitan Mastiff, Wolf Dog, Boerboel, Presa Canario, Fila Brasileiro, Tosa Inu, Pitbull, Cane Corso, and Dogo Argentino.

India, with its rich cultural tapestry and diverse landscapes, offers a plethora of experiences for expatriates. Here are some of the most popular cities in India that have captured the hearts of expats:

New Delhi:

As India's capital city, New Delhi is a vibrant blend of cultural history and modern living. Expatriates are drawn to Delhi for various reasons. It provides:

• Career Opportunities: New Delhi is a hub for businesses, government organizations, and international agencies. This offers a wide range of career opportunities across sectors.
• Expat Community: The city hosts a well-established expatriate community, making it easier for newcomers to adapt and connect with like-minded individuals.
• Excellent Educational Facilities: Delhi boasts some of India's top educational institutions, including renowned universities and schools.
• Cultural Richness: With numerous historical monuments, museums, and cultural festivals, New Delhi is a treasure trove for history and culture enthusiasts.

However, it's important to note that New Delhi faces challenges like high pollution levels, which can be a concern for some expats.

Mumbai:

Mumbai, often referred to as the "City of Dreams," is India's financial capital. Expatriates are drawn to Mumbai for its:

• Economic Opportunities: The city is the epicenter of India's financial sector, offering numerous job opportunities in finance, entertainment, and media.
• Excellent Schools: Mumbai is home to some of the country's best schools and educational institutions, making it a desirable choice for expat families.
• Vibrant Nightlife: Mumbai's nightlife is renowned for its energy and diversity. It offers a wide range of entertainment options, from high-end clubs to cultural performances.
• Cultural Diversity: The city's cosmopolitan nature ensures a blend of various cultures and traditions, making it a welcoming place for people from all backgrounds.

Mumbai, however, is also one of the most expensive cities in India, and the cost of living can be high.

Pune:

Pune, with its cosmopolitan lifestyle and pleasant climate, has become a preferred destination for expats. Here's why:

• Job Opportunities: Pune offers job opportunities across various industries, including IT, manufacturing, and education. It's often called the "Oxford of the East" due to its educational and research institutions.
• Picturesque Landscapes: Expats looking for scenic beauty and a quieter environment find Pune appealing. The city is surrounded by lush green hills and offers a peaceful living experience.
• Educational Facilities: Pune is home to numerous reputable universities and schools, making it an ideal choice for expat students and families.
• Affordable Living: Compared to some other major Indian cities, Pune offers a more affordable cost of living, including housing and daily expenses.

Bangalore:

Bangalore, often hailed as the "Silicon Valley of India," has gained prominence as a tech hub. Expatriates are drawn to Bangalore for:

• Tech Opportunities: The city is a hotspot for technology and IT-related job opportunities. It's home to numerous tech giants and startups, making it an ideal place for professionals in this field.
• Cultural Vibrancy: Bangalore's cultural scene is diverse and vibrant, with music, art, and literature festivals happening year-round.
• Nightlife: The city has a bustling nightlife, with a wide range of pubs, clubs, and entertainment venues.
• Affordable Living: Bangalore offers a reasonable cost of living, making it attractive to expats.

Kolkata:

Kolkata, known as the "City of Joy," is celebrated for its unique charm and cultural richness. Expatriates are drawn to Kolkata for:

• Cultural Heritage: The city boasts a rich cultural heritage, with historic buildings, art galleries, and theaters. It's known for its literary and artistic contributions to India.
• Cuisine: Kolkata is a food lover's paradise, famous for its street food, sweets, and diverse culinary traditions.
• Affordability: The cost of living in Kolkata is relatively lower compared to other major Indian cities.
• Warmth and Hospitality: The people of Kolkata are known for their warmth and hospitality, making expats feel welcome.

These popular cities in India offer a range of experiences, from career opportunities to cultural immersion. While each city has its unique charm, it's essential for expatriates to consider their individual preferences and priorities when choosing a destination in India.

You can transport your belongings to India by air, land, or sea, depending on your budget and timeline. Air transport is the quickest but most expensive option, while sea transport is more economical but takes longer.

Conditions for Import:

• Hold a resident/business/work or entry visa.
• Ship your belongings within 30 days of your arrival.
• Be present during customs examination.

Items Allowed Free of Charge:

• Clothes, books, furniture, kitchenware, small appliances (e.g., mixer, iron).
• Videocassette recorder or video cassette player.
• Washing machine.
• Personal computer.
• Laptop.
• Domestic refrigerators with a capacity of up to 300 liters.
• Electrical or Liquified Petroleum Gas Cooking Range.

Documents Required for Import:

• Original passport.
• Original bill of lading.
• Inventory of articles, including value, model, serial number, and year of purchase for electronic and high-value items.
• Transfer of Residence Form.
• Unaccompanied baggage form.
• Declaration form.
• Authorization letter.

Restricted Items Requiring Special Permits:

• Ammunition.
• Plants and their products.
• Endangered species of plants and animals, whether dead or alive.
• Any items intended for commercial purposes.
• Radio transmitters not approved for normal usage.
• Gold and silver (excluding ornaments).
• Satellite phones.
• Drones.
• Indian and foreign currency exceeding prescribed limits.

Prohibited Items from Entering India:

• Narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.
• Pornographic materials.
• Antiquities.
• Firearms.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods.
• Goods infringing any legally enforceable intellectual property rights.
• Maps and literature displaying India's external boundaries incorrectly.
• Counterfeit Indian currency notes, stamps, and coins.
• Fake currency notes.

There are two options for obtaining permanent residency status in India:

Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Card:

• This card is for individuals who have given up Indian citizenship and wish to return. It provides a lifelong visa and allows multiple entries into India.
• If you have held an OCI card for at least five years and lived in India for at least one year before applying, you may be eligible to apply for Indian citizenship.

Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) Card:

• Individuals with an Indian passport or whose parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents were born or were permanent residents of India can obtain a PIO card. PIO cards are valid for 15 years and allow holders to study and work in India without needing a visa.
• Additionally, foreign nationals who are not of Indian origin can obtain permanent residency in India through investment. This requires an investment of 1.5 million rupees within 18 months, leading to the employment of at least 20 local or Indian residents each year.

Indian citizenship can be obtained through various routes:

Citizenship by Birth:

• You can acquire Indian citizenship by birth if you meet one of the following conditions:You were born in India on or after January 26, 1950, and before July 1, 1987, regardless of your parents' nationality.
• You were born in India between July 1, 1987, and December 2, 2004, and at least one of your parents is of Indian origin.
• You were born in India on or after December 3, 2004, and both your parents are Indian citizens, or one parent is an Indian citizen, and the other is not an illegal migrant at the time of your birth.

Citizenship by Descent:

• To become an Indian citizen by descent, you must meet one of the following criteria:You were born outside India on or after January 26, 1950, but before December 10, 1992, and your father was an Indian citizen by birth.
• You were born outside India on or after December 10, 1992, but before December 3, 2004, and one of your parents was an Indian citizen at the time of your birth.
• You were born outside India on or after December 3, 2004, your parents declare that you do not hold a passport from another country, and your birth is registered within one year from the date of birth at an Indian consulate.

Citizenship by Registration:

• Citizenship by registration can be acquired by:A person of Indian origin who has been a resident of India for seven years before applying for registration.
• A person of Indian origin residing in any country or place outside undivided India.
• A person married to an Indian citizen who has been a resident of India for seven years before applying for registration.
• Minor children of Indian citizens.
• An adult person whose one parent was a citizen of independent India and has been residing in India for one year before applying for registration.
• An adult person whose parents are registered as Indian citizens.
• An adult person registered as an overseas citizen of India for five years and residing in India for one year before applying for registration.

Citizenship by Naturalization:

To become a citizen of India by naturalization, you must reside in the country for 11 years out of the previous 14 years and one year immediately before applying for citizenship. You must also have good character, knowledge of any language in the eighth schedule of the Indian Constitution, and renounce your previous citizenship.

Does India Allow Dual Citizenship?

No, India does not allow dual citizenship. To become an Indian citizen, you must renounce your current citizenship.