India Country Guide
Your Complete Guide to Moving, Living & Working in India
Important: This guide provides essential relocation information for individuals and families moving to the Republic of India. Known for its fast-growing economy, rich cultural heritage, diverse climate, and thriving sectors including technology, manufacturing, logistics, finance, pharmaceuticals and education, India offers significant opportunities for expatriates. Visa rules, work permits and residency requirements may change — always confirm with official Government of India sources.
Home To Home Relocations assists clients across Toronto, the GTA and Ontario with international moves to India, including export packing, ocean/air freight, customs coordination and final delivery to major cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Pune, Ahmedabad and Kolkata.
1. Before You Move to India
1.1 Visa Types & Entry Requirements
India offers several visa types depending on purpose of stay. Common long-term categories include:
- Employment Visa – for foreign professionals working with an Indian company
- Business Visa – for business travel, investment or meetings
- Entry (X) Visa – for dependants of Employment Visa holders
- Student Visa – for accredited education programs
- Research Visa
- Tourist Visa / eVisa – for short-term visits
- OCI Card (Overseas Citizen of India) – long-term residency benefits for eligible individuals of Indian origin
1.2 Working in India
India’s economy is diverse and rapidly expanding. Major sectors hiring expatriates include:
- Information technology & software development
- Engineering & industrial manufacturing
- Logistics & supply chain management
- Pharmaceuticals & life sciences
- Banking, finance & consulting
- Education & specialised training
- Startups & innovation hubs
1.3 Housing & Accommodation
Housing varies widely across major Indian cities. Common expatriate areas include:
- Mumbai: Bandra, Juhu, Powai, Andheri, BKC
- Delhi NCR: Gurgaon, South Delhi, Noida
- Bengaluru: Indiranagar, Whitefield, Koramangala
- Hyderabad: Gachibowli, Hitech City, Jubilee Hills
- Chennai: Adyar, OMR, Anna Nagar
- Pune: Kalyani Nagar, Koregaon Park
Typical rental requirements:
- Passport and visa copies
- Security deposit (1–10 months depending on city)
- Signed rental agreement
- Police verification in some regions
1.4 Banking & Finances
India’s currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). To open a bank account, requirements may include:
- Passport
- Employment Visa or OCI card
- Residential address proof
- PAN card (tax ID)
1.5 Healthcare & Medical Insurance
India has both public and private healthcare. Expatriates usually prefer private hospitals due to shorter wait times and advanced facilities.
1.6 Key Documents to Prepare
- Passport (valid for 6+ months)
- Employment contract
- Visa approval documents
- Birth & marriage certificates
- Educational and professional certificates
- Passport photos
2. Your First Weeks in India
2.1 Immigration Procedures
On arrival, immigration authorities will verify your visa and documents. Long-term visa holders must register with the FRRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office) within a specified timeframe (often 14 days).
2.2 Local Registration
FRRO registration may involve submission of passport details, visa documents, proof of residence and photographs.
2.3 Setting Up Essentials
- SIM card (Airtel, Jio, Vodafone-Idea)
- Broadband/Internet connection
- Electricity and gas setup (varies by region)
- Bank account activation
- PAN card application if required
3. India at a Glance
3.1 Geography & Major Regions
India is a vast and diverse country with landscapes ranging from Himalayan mountains to tropical beaches. Major metro regions include:
- Delhi NCR
- Mumbai Metropolitan Region
- Bengaluru
- Chennai
- Kolkata
- Hyderabad
- Pune
3.2 Politics & Economy
India is a federal parliamentary democracy and one of the world’s fastest-growing major economies, with strong sectors in IT, manufacturing, finance, healthcare and logistics.
3.3 Climate & Weather
India has diverse climates — tropical in the south, desert in the west, humid in the east, and alpine in the north. Summers can be hot, while winters vary by region.
4. Why Many Canadians Choose India
- Vast economic opportunities
- Large English-speaking population
- Low cost of living in many regions
- Rich cultural diversity and cuisine
- Fast-growing startup and innovation ecosystem
- Warm hospitality and strong community connections
5. Housing, Cost of Living & Daily Life
India offers a broad range of living costs depending on the city. Mumbai and Delhi are the most expensive, while many cities offer affordable lifestyles. Typical expenses include:
- Rent or serviced apartments
- Utilities (electricity, water, gas)
- Transportation (taxis, metro systems, auto-rickshaws)
- Groceries and dining
- Private school fees (if applicable)
6. Transportation & Getting Around
6.1 Public Transport
Options vary by city:
- Delhi Metro & Mumbai Metro
- Local trains (Mumbai suburban rail)
- Extensive bus networks
- Taxis & app-based rides (Uber, Ola)
- Auto-rickshaws for short distances
6.2 Driving in India
India drives on the left-hand side. Traffic can be challenging, especially in metro cities. Many expatriates prefer using drivers or ride-hailing services instead of driving themselves.
6.3 Domestic & International Travel
India has a vast air network with major airports in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Kolkata, offering excellent domestic and global connections.
7. Culture, Lifestyle & Places to Visit
7.1 Everyday Culture
- India is a multicultural and multilingual country
- English is widely spoken in business and education
- Festivals occur year-round
- Food varies significantly across regions
- Strong sense of community and hospitality
7.2 Popular Cities & Attractions
- Delhi: Historic landmarks, government institutions
- Mumbai: Financial hub, Bollywood, coastline
- Bengaluru: India’s IT capital
- Goa: Beaches and tourism
- Rajasthan: Palaces and forts
- Kerala: Backwaters and nature
- Agra: Taj Mahal