Moving from London to India requires careful planning across multiple areas including visas, housing, healthcare, and cultural adjustments.
Visa Requirements
The most common visa types for moving to India are Employment (E), Business (B), and Entry (X) visas.
- Employment Visa: Required if you’re relocating for work
- Business Visa: For setting up or running a business
- Entry Visa: For those of Indian origin or joining family members
Applications can be submitted through VFS Global, India’s official visa processing partner in the UK.
Housing and Areas
Popular expat areas include:
- Mumbai: Bandra, Juhu, Powai
- Delhi: Vasant Vihar, Golf Links, Defence Colony
- Bangalore: Whitefield, Indiranagar, Koramangala
Healthcare Preparations
Private health insurance is strongly recommended when moving to India.
- Get vaccinations for Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and other region-specific diseases
- Maintain a supply of any prescription medications
- Register with a private hospital in your area
Banking and Finance
Common banks for expats include HSBC, Citibank, and Standard Chartered.
| Account Type | Requirements |
|---|---|
| NRO Account | For local income and expenses |
| NRE Account | For foreign currency deposits |
Shipping and Storage
Reliable international movers include Crown Relocations and Allied Pickfords.
- Sea freight takes 3-6 weeks from London to major Indian ports
- Air freight takes 4-7 days but costs significantly more
- Consider climate-appropriate clothing and electronics compatibility (230V)
Cultural Adjustment Tips
Understanding local customs helps smooth the transition.
- Learn basic Hindi phrases for daily interactions
- Respect local dress codes, particularly in religious places
- Adapt to Indian business etiquette, including relationship-building
Contact the British High Commission in India for additional support: Official website.
Practical Considerations
- Register with your local police station within 14 days of arrival
- Get an Indian mobile number (providers: Airtel, Jio, Vodafone)
- Join expat groups on Facebook and Meetup for community support
Tax considerations should be discussed with a qualified accountant familiar with UK-India regulations.
Education
International schools are popular among expat families moving to India.
- American School of Bombay (Mumbai)
- British School (New Delhi)
- International School of Bangalore (ISB)
Transportation
Understanding local transport options is essential for daily life.
Public Transport
- Metro systems in major cities
- Local trains (especially in Mumbai)
- Auto rickshaws for short distances
Private Transport
- Consider hiring a driver
- Car leasing options available
- Ride-hailing apps: Uber, Ola
Weather Adaptation
India’s climate varies significantly by region and season.
- Monsoon season (June-September)
- Summer temperatures can exceed 40°C
- Winter conditions vary by location
Conclusion
A successful move from London to India requires thorough preparation across multiple aspects of daily life. Key priorities include:
- Securing appropriate visas and documentation
- Arranging suitable accommodation
- Setting up healthcare coverage
- Establishing banking arrangements
- Planning for cultural adaptation
Regular contact with both Indian and British authorities ensures compliance with all necessary regulations. Joining expat communities can provide valuable support during the transition period.
FAQs
- What visa requirements do I need to relocate from London to India?
You need an Employment Visa if moving for work, or an Entry Visa/OCI card if you’re of Indian origin. Business visas are required for business purposes. Most visas require sponsorship and documentation including a valid passport, proof of residence, and financial statements. - How do I handle the transfer of my finances and banking when moving to India?
Open a Non-Resident External (NRE) or Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO) account before moving. Notify UK banks of your move, understand FEMA regulations for fund transfers, and consider exchange rates and international transfer fees. - What vaccinations and health preparations are required before moving to India?
Required vaccinations include Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and routine immunizations. Consider getting Japanese Encephalitis and Cholera vaccines. Obtain international health insurance and gather medical records before departure. - How do I manage shipping my belongings from London to India?
Choose between air freight (faster, expensive) or sea freight (slower, economical). Obtain customs clearance documents, detailed inventory lists, and proper insurance. Consider duty charges on imported items. - What are the housing options and rental procedures in India?
Options include serviced apartments, standalone houses, or apartment complexes. Rental agreements typically require advance deposits (usually 10-11 months), proof of identity, and employment documentation. Consider hiring a local property agent. - How do I navigate the tax implications of moving from the UK to India?
Understand the double taxation agreement between UK and India, determine your tax residency status, file exit procedures with HMRC, and register for Indian PAN (Permanent Account Number) card. - What should I know about schooling if moving with children?
Research international schools in your destination city, gather academic records, and apply early as waiting lists can be long. Consider IB curriculum schools for consistency with UK education. - How do I register as a foreigner in India?
Register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) within 14 days of arrival if staying longer than 180 days. Obtain residence permit and comply with local registration requirements. - What arrangements should I make for utilities and services in India?
Set up electricity, water, gas connections through local authorities or landlord. Arrange mobile phone service, internet connection, and consider backup power solutions due to occasional outages. - How do I handle vehicle transportation or purchase in India?
Importing personal vehicles involves high customs duties and complex procedures. Consider purchasing locally or using car leasing services. Obtain an Indian driving license within one year of arrival.