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A GUIDE FOR Moving TO

India

A GUIDE FOR Moving TO

India

A GUIDE FOR Moving TO

India

GUIDE FOR

Moving to India? Here is what you need to know

Moving to India? Here is what you need to know

India is one of the most vibrant, diverse, and dynamic countries in the world, attracting expats, entrepreneurs, students, and digital nomads from every corner of the globe. With its fast-growing economy, rich cultural heritage, incredible cuisine, and vastly different lifestyles across regions, India offers a relocation experience unlike anywhere else. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling energy of Mumbai, the tech innovation of Bangalore, the historic charm of Delhi, or the relaxed coastal life in Goa or Kerala, India has endless possibilities.

To prepare for a smooth transition, it’s essential to understand India’s culture, work environment, climate, and relocation costs.
This guide provides an overview of India with cultural insights, work life, basic language tips, and practical relocation advice.

How much does it cost to move to India?

Moving to India can vary significantly in cost depending on your departure country, shipment size, and chosen transport method. Below are realistic price ranges.

Average moving costs by region of origin

  • From within Asia: €2,000 – €5,000

  • From the Middle East: €2,500 – €5,500

  • From Europe: €3,500 – €7,500

  • From the UK: €4,000 – €8,000

  • From North America (USA/Canada): €5,500 – €10,000

  • From Oceania: €6,000 – €12,000

  • From Latin America: €6,500 – €12,500

Costs vary based on shipment volume, shared vs. full container, customs requirements, and add-ons like packing, insurance, storage, or pet relocation.

Factors that influence your moving cost

  • Distance and country of origin

  • Volume of household goods (m³)

  • Transport method:

    • Sea freight — most cost-effective

    • Air freight — fast but high in cost

  • Time of year: demand peaks during the dry season (October–March)

  • Additional services: packing, insurance, customs assistance, vehicle import, temporary storage

Typical examples

  • Move from Dubai to Mumbai with 10 m³: €2,000 – €3,200

  • Couple relocating from Germany to Bangalore with 20 m³: €4,500 – €7,000

  • Family moving from USA to Delhi with 30 m³: €7,000 – €11,000

For the most accurate pricing, a customised quote based on your personal situation is recommended.

A Glimpse into India

Geography and climate

India is the seventh-largest country in the world, offering incredibly varied landscapes across its 28 states and 8 union territories. From the snow-covered Himalayas in the north to tropical beaches in the south, deserts in the west, and lush rainforests in the northeast, India’s geography is breathtakingly diverse.

Climate varies widely by region:

  • North: hot summers, cool winters

  • South: tropical climate with monsoon seasons

  • West: dry and desert conditions in Rajasthan

  • East: humid and rainy, with lush greenery

India experiences three main seasons: summer, monsoon, and winter, each bringing its own beauty and challenges.

A snapshot of history

India’s history stretches back thousands of years and has shaped a civilisation rich in culture and knowledge.

Key historical highlights:

  • Indus Valley Civilization (one of the world’s earliest)

  • Vedic period and the rise of Hindu traditions

  • Maurya and Gupta empires (ancient golden ages)

  • Mughal Empire: known for architecture, arts, and cultural fusion

  • British colonial period: lasting nearly 200 years

  • Independence in 1947: led by figures like Mahatma Gandhi

  • Modern India: a vibrant democracy with rapid economic growth and global influence

With temples, forts, palaces, mosques, and colonial architecture, India’s history is visible everywhere you go.

Diving into Indian culture

India’s culture is one of the world’s most diverse, colourful, and deeply rooted.

Food and drink

Indian cuisine is famous worldwide, with flavours and dishes that vary widely across regions. Highlights include:

  • Biryani

  • Masala dosa

  • Butter chicken

  • Rogan josh

  • Paneer dishes

  • Street foods like chaat, samosas, and pani puri

  • Countless regional vegetarian specialties

Tea (chai) is a staple, and coffee culture is strong in southern regions like Karnataka and Kerala.

Festivals

India celebrates hundreds of festivals throughout the year, reflecting its cultural and religious diversity.

Major celebrations include:

  • Diwali (Festival of Lights)

  • Holi (Festival of Colours)

  • Eid-ul-Fitr & Eid-ul-Adha

  • Durga Puja

  • Pongal & Onam

  • Ganesh Chaturthi

  • Independence Day (15 August)

These festivals bring communities together with music, food, rituals, and vibrant colours.

Lifestyle and social norms

Some aspects of life in India include:

  • Warm hospitality: guests are highly valued

  • Community living: extended families often live closely connected

  • Respect for traditions: rituals and customs play a large role in daily life

  • Varied pace: cities are fast-paced, while rural areas are relaxed

  • Strong spirituality: temples, mosques, churches, and gurudwaras are part of everyday life

  • Diverse languages and cultures: every state feels like its own country

Adapting to India's cultural richness can be one of the most rewarding parts of relocation.

Working in India

India has a dynamic, expanding economy offering opportunities across many industries.

Business culture

  • Relationship-building is essential

  • Communication styles vary widely, from formal to friendly

  • Meetings may start with small talk

  • Hierarchy is respected, but younger workplaces are more informal

  • Work–life balance depends heavily on industry and region

Job opportunities for expats

  • IT & software development (Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune)

  • Finance & banking (Mumbai, Delhi)

  • Education & research

  • Manufacturing & engineering

  • Startups & entrepreneurship

  • Healthcare

  • Hospitality and tourism

India is also a growing hub for remote workers, especially in cities with strong digital infrastructure.

हिन्दी (Hindi) made simple

India has 22 official languages, with Hindi and English being the most widely used nationally. Here are basic Hindi phrases helpful for newcomers.

Common Hindi phrases

English

Hindi

Hello

नमस्ते (Namaste)

Goodbye

अलविदा (Alvida)

Thank you

धन्यवाद (Dhanyavaad)

Please

कृपया (Kripya)

How are you?

कैसे हैं आप? (Kaise hain aap?)

I don’t understand

मैं नहीं समझा/समझी (Main nahin samjha/samjhi)

Where is the nearest…?

सबसे नज़दीकी … कहाँ है? (Sabse nazdeeki … kahan hai?)

Can you help me?

क्या आप मेरी मदद कर सकते हैं? (Kya aap meri madad kar sakte hain?)

How much does this cost?

यह कितने का है? (Yeh kitne ka hai?)

Do you speak English?

क्या आप अंग्रेज़ी बोलते हैं? (Kya aap angrezi bolte hain?)

Even learning a few words helps ease everyday interactions and shows respect for local culture.

Final thoughts

India offers an extraordinary mix of opportunity, history, culture, spirituality, and adventure. Whether you’re relocating for work, lifestyle, or new experiences, India’s diversity ensures that every newcomer finds a place where they feel at home.

Embrace its rhythms, enjoy its flavours, and discover why so many people choose to make India their next big life chapter.

भारत में आपका स्वागत है!

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