Indian expats: practical tips for living, paperwork and community
Feeling torn between two countries is normal. As an Indian expat you carry home with you — food, festivals, family expectations — and also the reality of a new system: healthcare, taxes, jobs. This page gives straightforward, useful steps you can act on right away so everyday life gets easier.
Paperwork & money — what to sort first
Start with your ID and travel documents. If you’re renewing an Indian passport in the USA, book a slot at the nearest consulate or authorised center, carry your old passport, recent photos, proof of US residency and pay the fee. Check processing times and plan travel around it. For voting, register as an NRI to vote from abroad or use postal ballots where allowed.
Taxes and bank accounts come next. Know your tax residency rules — you might owe tax both where you live and in India depending on days spent and income sources. Keep clear records of income, investments and remittances. Use trusted channels for money transfers: compare fees, speed and safety. If you send money home often, set up a scheduled transfer or use services that lock a good exchange rate.
Daily life — work, health, and staying connected
Find your community fast. Local temples, cultural groups, WhatsApp groups and regional associations help with housing tips, kids’ schools and food spots. Don’t wait to ask — most expats are happy to help newcomers. For jobs, update your resume to local formats and get references ready. Networking often matters more than online applications.
Healthcare systems vary wildly. Register with a local GP, understand insurance limits and keep copies of prescriptions and medical records. Carry a list of emergency contacts and know the local emergency number. If you take regular medicines, bring a supply and a doctor’s letter describing the prescription.
Keep home close but avoid being stuck in comparison. You’ll notice differences: punctual trains, cleaner streets, or the lack of familiar chai shops. That doesn’t mean one place is better overall — it’s about what matters to you now. Learn the local ways, but keep traditions alive with small rituals: a weekend meal, a festival call with family, or cooking a simple curry to feel grounded.
Stay informed sensibly. Some Indian newspapers now charge for their e-paper—consider subscribing if you want daily home news, or pick a few reliable sources instead of endless feeds. And if you miss Indian food, try local Indian grocery stores or learn a couple of signature dishes that travel well.
Small practical steps—organising documents, finding community, sorting money and healthcare—make life abroad less stressful. You're not alone in this; many Indian expats have built routines that mix the best of both worlds. Start with one task today and build from there.
