Return to India: Decision & Planning
Decide whether and when to move back to India — reasons, planning, schemes, and readiness.
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How the Government of India Is Helping NRIs Return Home (Schemes and Provisions)
Let me start with an honest answer to the question many of you ask me. “Mani, does the Indian government actually help NRIs come back, or is that just talk?” The honest truth is somewhere in the middle. There is no single grand “Welcome Home” scheme that hands every returnee a cheque and a red […]
Read guideCost of Living in Pune vs Bengaluru for Returning NRIs (2026 Honest Comparison)
Hey, Mani here. This is one of the closer city debates I get asked about. Bengaluru, India’s tech capital, fast and cosmopolitan. And Pune, the calmer, greener, more balanced city just a few hours from Mumbai that a lot of returning families quietly fall in love with. In our community, this one usually comes up […]
Read guideCost of Living in Bengaluru vs Chennai for Returning NRIs (2026 Honest Comparison)
A lot of you are torn between two very different South Indian cities right now. Bengaluru, the loud, fast, tech-soaked metro everyone talks about. And Chennai, the quieter, more traditional coastal city that quietly does a lot of things very well. I get this one a fair bit in our community. Usually it sounds like […]
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All 100 in Return to India: Decision & Planning
How the Government of India Is Helping NRIs Return Home (Schemes and Provisions)
Let me start with an honest answer to the question many of you ask me. “Mani, does the Indian government actually help NRIs come back, or is that just talk?” The honest truth is somewhere in the middle. There is no single grand “Welcome Home” scheme that hands every returnee a cheque and a red […]
Cost of Living in Pune vs Bengaluru for Returning NRIs (2026 Honest Comparison)
Hey, Mani here. This is one of the closer city debates I get asked about. Bengaluru, India’s tech capital, fast and cosmopolitan. And Pune, the calmer, greener, more balanced city just a few hours from Mumbai that a lot of returning families quietly fall in love with. In our community, this one usually comes up […]
Cost of Living in Bengaluru vs Chennai for Returning NRIs (2026 Honest Comparison)
A lot of you are torn between two very different South Indian cities right now. Bengaluru, the loud, fast, tech-soaked metro everyone talks about. And Chennai, the quieter, more traditional coastal city that quietly does a lot of things very well. I get this one a fair bit in our community. Usually it sounds like […]
Cost of Living in Bengaluru vs Hyderabad for Returning NRIs (2026 Honest Comparison)
If you’re sitting in the US, UK, or the Gulf right now, trying to decide between Bengaluru and Hyderabad, I know exactly what’s going on in your head. You’ve probably opened ten browser tabs. One says Bengaluru is the place. Another swears by Hyderabad. And none of them are talking to you, the person packing […]
USCIS New Rules for Green Card Application: Here’s How it Affects NRIs
My phone has been buzzing non-stop since Thursday. Messages from people in our WhatsApp community – engineers in the Bay Area, doctors in Texas, IT managers in New Jersey – all asking the same thing: “Mani, have you seen this USCIS memo? What does it mean for me?” I get it. This one hit different. […]
GCC Countries Safe for Indian NRIs Right Now? Honest Assessment
I’ve received over 2,00 messages in the last 10 days. From Dubai. From Kuwait. From Doha. From Manama. From Riyadh. From Muscat. The same question, again and again. “Mani, is it safe? Should I stay or should I come back?” I’m going to answer that as honestly as I can. No sugar-coating. No panic-inducing headlines. […]
Good Idea to Return to India in 2026?
This is the question I get asked more than anything else in our WhatsApp community: “Mani, is now a good time to come back?” I hear it every week. On community calls. In DMs. From couples in Texas, IT professionals in the Bay Area, bankers in Dubai, and doctors in London. And honestly? The answer […]
Best Small Towns in India Where NRIs Can Retire Peacefully
I still remember the conversation I had with my uncle in 2019. He had just retired from his software job in California. Forty years in the US. Two kids settled there. And now he wanted to come back. But here’s what surprised me. He didn’t want Bangalore or Pune. He wanted peace. Good weather. Access […]
Should You Move Back to India with $220K and 16Crores? A Texas Couple’s Dilemma
Hey there! Mani here. We got a question in our FB group. “We are a married couple in Texas right now. I am 33, wife 30, we have saved up around 220K USD. Have around 16Cr in real estate in India via parents(inheritance). Is it a wise decision to move back or stay here […]
How to Renew Indian Passport from the UK – Full Process (2026)
An NRI friend called me at midnight once. Panicking. His Indian passport had expired three months ago. He’d just been offered a project in Singapore. Flights in three weeks. And he had no idea how the renewal process worked from the UK. Sound familiar? Passport renewal is one of those things every NRI in the […]
Renew Indian Driving License For NRIs: The Ultimate Guide
Hey! Mani here. When I moved back from California in 2017, my expired driving license was one of those small but super annoying problems I hadn’t thought about. Picture this. I’m at the Bangalore airport after 8 years in the US. My mom picks me up in her old Maruti. She hands me the keys […]
Do You Need to Disclose Your Foreign Assets in India as an NRI?
A couple of months ago, Ramesh from our WhatsApp group got a notice from the Income Tax Department. He’d been filing his Indian tax returns diligently for years, reporting his rental income from Pune properly, paying every rupee of tax owed. But he’d never disclosed his US bank account, his 401(k), or his house in […]
Bank of India Branches in USA
After covering the extensive networks of SBI and the limited presence of other Indian banks, many of you asked about Bank of India’s operations in the USA. Here’s the complete picture – and it’s quite different from what you might expect! Reality Check: Bank of India operates with just TWO locations in the entire […]
State Bank of India Branches in USA
After covering Bank of Baroda and ICICI Bank, many of you asked about SBI’s operations in the USA. Well, here’s the complete truth – and trust me, SBI’s story in America is quite different from the other banks! Great News: SBI has the most comprehensive presence among Indian banks in the USA with 4 […]
ICICI Bank Branches in USA
After getting countless questions about Canara Bank and Bank of Baroda’s presence in the USA, I decided to dig deep and give you the complete picture. Trust me, what I found might surprise you! Reality Alert: ICICI Bank has only ONE actual branch in the entire United States, plus two representative offices. That’s it […]
Canara Bank Branches in USA
After covering Bank of Baroda’s US presence, many of you asked about Canara Bank’s operations in America. The answer might surprise you – Canara Bank maintains an even more focused approach with just ONE branch in the entire United States. Reality Check: Like many Indian banks, Canara Bank operates a single strategic location in […]
Bank of Baroda Branches in USA
Hey NRIs! Mani here, and I’ve got some news that might surprise you about Bank of Baroda’s presence in the United States. After years of helping NRIs navigate banking across different countries, I felt it was time to give you the complete, unfiltered truth about BOB’s operations in America. Reality Check: Bank of Baroda […]
How Different Is Daily Life in India Compared to the US?
Hey everyone! Mani here. This topic hits close to home. My wife Priya was terrified about moving back to India in 2017. She had built her life in California. Her friends. Her routines. Her independence. “Mani, what if I lose myself in India?” she asked me one evening in Irvine. I had no answers then. […]
Will I Be Able to Adjust to Life in India After Years in the USA?
Hey folks! Mani here. That question haunted me for months in 2016. I was sitting in my Irvine apartment. Staring at my mom’s photo on the kitchen counter. She was alone in Kerala. Dad had passed away when I was in college. Twenty years later, I was 9,000 miles away building a career. My wife […]
NRI Guide to Indian Consulates & VFS: Navigating the Paperwork Maze
Hey folks! Mani here. Remember that sweltering July afternoon in 2016 when I stood outside the San Francisco Indian Consulate with my family? Four hours in line. My US-born son Arjun was cranky. My wife was giving me death stares. All because I needed a simple passport renewal before our move back to India. “This […]
NRI Guide to Life Certificate Process: What Every Overseas Pensioner Needs to Know
Hey folks! Mani here. Remember when my mom almost lost her pension in 2018? We were still settling into our Bangalore home after moving back from Irvine. Mom was staying with us temporarily. Her pension suddenly stopped. No warning. No explanation. The reason? She hadn’t submitted something called a “life certificate.” I had no clue […]
Smart Home Setup in India: An NRIs Guide
When I moved back from Silicon Valley, my biggest concern wasn’t about the job or the food – it was about recreating my beloved smart home setup! After two years of experimenting, failing, and finally succeeding in building a comprehensive smart home in Bangalore, I’ve got some hard-earned insights to share. Quick Tip: Don’t […]
Making Friends in India as an NRI: Tips for Building a Social Circle
Mani here. When I moved back to India, I thought making friends would be the easiest part of my transition. After all, Indians are known for their warmth and hospitality, right? While that’s true, I quickly learned that building meaningful friendships as an adult in a new environment requires more intentional effort than I expected. […]
Fitness & Gyms in India: A Comprehensive Guide for NRIs
Hey there! Mani here. When I moved back to India, finding a gym that matched my US fitness experience was high on my priority list. After trying various fitness centers across different cities and helping other NRIs find their fitness groove, I’ve gained valuable insights into India’s evolving fitness scene. Quick Tip: Most premium […]
Work-Life Balance: Modern India vs USA
Hey there! Mani here. The biggest culture shock when I moved back to India wasn’t the traffic or the weather – it was adjusting to a completely different rhythm of work and life. After spending a decade in Silicon Valley and now three years back in Bangalore, I’ve gained some fascinating insights into how these […]
Cost of Living in India vs USA – A Practical Comparison for NRIs (2026)
A few months after we moved back from California, my wife and I sat down one evening to compare what we used to spend in the US versus what we were spending in Bangalore. The numbers surprised us. Not just the obvious savings on rent and groceries. But the massive difference in things like childcare, […]
Best Cities in India for NRIs to Settle: A Family-Focused Guide
Hey there! Mani here. When I was planning my move back to India, choosing the right city felt like solving a complex puzzle. After living in both Bangalore and Pune, and helping dozens of NRI friends settle across different cities, I’ve gathered some practical insights about what makes a city truly “livable” for families returning […]
Starting a Business in India: Complete Legal Guide for NRIs
Hey there! Mani here. When I returned to India and decided to start my digital marketing agency, I was completely overwhelmed by the legal requirements. After successfully navigating the process (and making a few mistakes along the way), I want to share everything I learned about setting up a business in India as an NRI. […]
USA vs India: What to Expect in Your Daily Life
Hey there! Mani here. Remember my first week back in India? I tried to order groceries online at 11 PM (like I used to in the US) and learned that most deliveries stop by 9:30 PM! That’s just one of the many lifestyle adjustments I had to make. Let me walk you through what you […]
Person of Indian Origin (PIO) Card – Complete Guide for NRIs (2026)
If you’re still holding a PIO card, this is probably the most urgent article you’ll read today. The PIO card officially expired on December 31, 2025. No more extensions. The government has been very clear this time. I’ve had dozens of messages in our WhatsApp community from folks who are confused. Some didn’t even know […]
Nailing Finances for Returning NRIs (Webinar, October 4th 2024)
Ready to make the move back to India? You’ve built a life abroad—good job, great experiences, and financial comfort. But returning isn’t always easy. We’ve partnered with “Turtle”, an upcoming financial brand, to focus on what really matters: your finances. Here’s what covered in the session. Join our interactive workshop and Q&A to make sure your financial […]
Problems Faced by Returning NRIs in India: Understanding the Challenge
Moving back to India after living abroad can be both exhilarating and daunting. While the prospect of returning to one’s roots is exciting, the transition is not without its challenges. Many NRIs face a variety of issues when they decide to return home. Here’s a deep dive into some common problems faced by NRIs returning […]
Bangalore or Hyderabad: Which City Wins for NRIs Returning to India?
So, you’re moving back to India from the USA and you’re stuck between Bangalore and Hyderabad. Both cities are booming tech hubs with their own charm and challenges. Let’s break down the pros and cons to help you decide which city might be your perfect match. Bangalore: The Garden City Turned Silicon Valley Pros: Cons: […]
When is the Right Time to Return to India?
Three months ago, Vikram called me at 11 PM. He’d just gotten off a video call with his parents in Pune. His dad’s health was declining. His mom was managing everything alone. Vikram had a great job in Seattle, kids settled in school, a mortgage on a beautiful house. But guilt was eating him up. […]
Top Reasons Why NRIs Return to India
Thinking about packing up and moving back to the motherland? Trust me, you’re not alone. There’s a whole tribe of us who’ve been there, done that, and lived to tell the tale. 1. Family Pulls Stronger Than Gravity Remember those endless video calls with mom where she’s like, “Beta, you’ve forgotten us after going abroad!”? […]
182-Day Rule for NRIs: Everything You Need to Know (2026)
“Mani, I’m planning a 5-month trip to India this year. Will I lose my NRI status?” I get some version of this question almost every week in our WhatsApp community. And honestly? The answer confuses even chartered accountants sometimes. Because the 182-day rule isn’t one rule. It’s actually two different rules under two different laws. […]
TDS on Sale of Property by NRI
If you’re an American NRI (Non-Resident Indian) with property back in India, you might be pondering the idea of selling it off. Whether it’s that old family home or an investment you made a few years ago, selling property from across the seas can feel a bit daunting, especially when India’s tax maze comes into […]
NRI – What It Really Means (And What It Doesn’t) in 2026
“Mani, am I an NRI or not?” You’d be surprised how often I get this question in our WhatsApp community. People who’ve lived abroad for 15 years aren’t sure. People who just moved back 3 months ago aren’t sure. OCI holders living in the US aren’t sure. And honestly? I don’t blame them. Because “NRI” […]
Stock Trading for NRIs: Rules, Eligibility & How to Start
For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) with an inclination towards the stock market, trading in Indian stocks can be both a lucrative investment opportunity and a chance to stay connected to the domestic market dynamics. However, trading in India comes with its own set of rules and regulations for NRIs. This comprehensive guide will help unravel the […]
India or Bharat?
Alright, imagine stepping out of a time machine, somewhere in the heart of ancient India. The air is fragrant with the scent of sandalwood, the sound of the mighty Ganga echoes in the distance, and someone refers to this land as… “Bharat.” Fast forward a few millennia, and here we are, juggling between “India” and […]
Things You’ll Miss When Returning from USA to India
You’ve made the choice! The prodigal child is set to return from the Land of the Free to the Land of Festivities. While the prospect of being reunited with Indian flavors and family is exhilarating, you can’t help but think about what you might leave behind. Not the big stuff, we’re talking about the little […]
Returning from USA to India as an American Citizen
Ah, the prodigal son (or daughter) returns! You’ve tasted the American dream – now you’re longing for the Indian reality. The land of Big Macs was fun, but the soul craves some spicy samosas. But wait – you’re not just a Non-Resident Indian (NRI) anymore; you’re a full-fledged American citizen. Does that complicate things? A […]
Best Websites for Online Shopping in India
Imagine this: You’re fresh off the plane, having just landed back in India after years, and the realization hits you that shopping in India isn’t just about sauntering into glitzy malls. No sir! Online shopping is the spice masala of the retail world here. Forget the Thanksgiving rush at Walmart. In India, it’s all about […]
Problems Faced by Returning NRIs & How to Overcome Them
Ahoy, dear Indian NRI, contemplating a return to the land of Bollywood beats and spicy street food! “Back to Desh” isn’t just a journey across oceans; it’s a soulful voyage across a universe of emotions, cultural shocks, and of course, traffic jams. As you tighten your seatbelt for this ride, let’s talk about the speed […]
How many NRIs return to India?
You’ve been abroad, tasted the ‘freedom’ of a foreign land, perhaps endured a few snide remarks about your accent, and you’re now wondering: “Do people actually move back to India? Am I the odd one out for contemplating it?” We’ve all been there, pondering if India is still home or if the world is just […]
Does India Allow Dual Citizenship? Here’s What NRIs Need to Know
If you’ve been living abroad for a few years and recently became a citizen of the US, UK, Canada, or any other country, you’ve probably wondered: “Can I still be an Indian citizen too?” I remember the anxiety when I was going through my own naturalization process. The fear of “losing India” was real. Would […]
Is India a Third World Country? Here’s the Truth!
Ever find yourself in a conversation, mostly outside India, where the mention of our beloved nation elicits remarks like, “Oh, it’s a third-world country, right?” And if you’re anything like me, you might be sipping your chai, suppressing the urge to drop some hot history lessons on them. Let’s spill some tea (not the chai, […]
Are Indians Asian? Decoding the Geography & Stereotypes
When I saw this question trend on Google, the first question that came to my mind was “Wait, wasn’t it obvious?”. Turns out a few thousand people Google this every day. So, let’s crack it. Are Indians Asian? Ah, America! Land of the free, home of the brave, and a place where I, an NRI, […]
Top 15 Indian Real Estate Websites for NRIs
Alright, listen up my fellow NRI comrades! Who’s been battling those late-night cravings for a bite of vada pav or a plate of pani puri? It’s that nostalgia, right? It has a sneaky way of reminding us of our roots. And sometimes, it might even have you contemplating a homeward journey. Well, if you’re entertaining […]
10 Social Impact Organizations in India for NRIs to Get Involved With
Hello to my fellow globe-trotting Desis! Feeling a bit nostalgic, are we? Longing to contribute back to the homeland? Well, you’re in luck! India, with its vibrant civil society, is brimming with social impact organizations that would love your involvement. Here are ten such organizations that could use your time, resources, or expertise. 1. Goonj […]
Practical Problems Returning NRIs Must Expect
Nobody talks about the small stuff. When I moved back from the US in 2017, I had prepared for the big things – taxes, banking, schools, shipping. I thought I was ready. Then reality hit. In the first week itself. The electricity went out three times. The plumber didn’t show up (twice). My US phone […]
10 Best Gated Communities in Bangalore
Ah, Bangalore! The city that gifts us a climate to die for, filter coffee that can resurrect the dead, and traffic jams that make the dead wish they’d stayed dead. Over the years, it has morphed into India’s tech haven, a vibrant tapestry of cultures, an urban kaleidoscope. You, a Non-Resident Indian, perhaps mesmerized by […]
How to Settle in Bangalore – Finding a Good Place
Finding a place to live in Bangalore is like trying to navigate the city’s notorious Silk Board Junction during peak hours – it’s a test of your patience, your negotiation skills, and your ability to keep your sanity intact amidst chaos. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back. We’re here to give you a detailed […]
How to Return to Bangalore from USA- Checklist for NRIs
Let’s get something straight here. Bangalore isn’t just a city. It’s an emotion, an experience wrapped in mouthwatering dosas, aromatic filter coffee, and traffic jams so chaotic, they make a Formula 1 race look like a Sunday drive. It’s Silicon Valley served with a generous side of sambar. And you, my NRI friend, are thinking […]
Repatriation of Funds – What Returning NRIs Should Know
Let’s demystify repatriation of funds for returning NRIs. Are you a Non-Residential Indian (NRI) planning to shift back to your motherland after years of working abroad? If yes, you’ve probably started chalking out your return plans. Amidst the excitement of returning home and the anxiety of wrapping up your life abroad, one crucial aspect that […]
Financial Checklist for Returning NRIs: Before and After the Move (2026)
A few years ago, a member in our WhatsApp group – a senior engineer moving back from Seattle – told me something that stuck. “Mani, I spent three months researching the best school for my daughter. I spent three hours on my bank accounts. Guess which one caused problems?” His NRE account got frozen. He […]
General Power of Attorney for NRIs w/ Sample PDF
For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) who own property or have financial interests in India, managing these assets from abroad can be challenging. One solution to this problem is the General Power of Attorney (GPA), which enables NRIs to appoint a trusted person in India to act on their behalf. In this article, we’ll delve into the […]
PAN Card Application for NRIs – Complete Process
For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) looking to invest, trade or conduct financial transactions in India, obtaining a Permanent Account Number (PAN) card is a crucial step. The PAN card serves as a unique identification number for tax purposes and streamlines various financial transactions. In this article, we’ll explore the PAN card application process for NRIs, the […]
Best Cities in India for Returning NRIs to Settle (2026)
“Which city should we move to?” This is the question I get asked more than any other. More than taxes. More than schools. More than jobs. And honestly? It’s the hardest one to answer. Because there’s no single “best” city for everyone. When I moved back from the US in 2017, I chose Bangalore. It […]
The Ultimate Return to India Checklist for NRIs
A member in our WhatsApp group once told me, “Mani, I have 47 open tabs on my browser. Each one is about a different thing I need to do before moving back. I don’t even know where to start.” I felt that. Deeply. When I was planning my own move back from the US in […]
How to Return Back to India: The Complete Guide for NRIs
You’ve made the decision. After years abroad – whether it’s the US, UK, UAE, Singapore, or anywhere else – you’re ready to move back to India. It’s exciting. It’s scary. And honestly? It’s a lot to figure out. I get it. When I returned after living in the US for several years, I had a […]
How to Choose the Right City to Relocate to in India: A Guide
Are you an NRI dreaming of moving back to India, but feeling overwhelmed by the plethora of cities to choose from? You’re not alone! We understand that picking the perfect city to relocate to can be a daunting task, especially when you’ve been away for so long. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back! In […]
Here’s How to Apply for a PAN Card for NRIs
A Permanent Account Number (PAN) is a 10-character alphanumeric code issued by the Indian Income Tax Department to all taxable entities. It is a must-have for anyone who earns an income in India, regardless of whether they are an Indian national or a Non-Resident Indian (NRI). As an NRI, it’s important to understand the process […]
How to renew a Passport
Renewing your passport doesn’t have to be a complicated process, but it can be time-consuming. Knowing the steps and having the necessary documentation ready ahead of time can help make the application process go more smoothly. Learn more about what documents you need and how to submit your passport renewal application here. Renewing a passport […]
How to get a new social security card
Having a social security card is essential for accessing many aspects of American life, and sometimes you may need to replace yours. Whether your card was lost, stolen, or damaged, you can apply for a new one. Here are some tips to help you through the process. Steps to get new social security card 1. […]
Visa for Immigrants – Everything You Need to Know
For immigrants looking to come to the United States, obtaining a visa is one of the most important steps. Knowing what type of visa you need, how to apply and the application process can be a complicated process. This article will provide an overview of everything you need to know about visas for immigrants in […]
Best Visitors Insurance for Parents Visiting the USA
Having your parents visit you in the USA is an exciting experience and providing them with the right health insurance is essential to ensure their safety. The USA has some of the highest health care costs in the world, so it is important to select a travel medical insurance policy that offers comprehensive coverage and […]
What is Immigration?
Immigration is a complex and sensitive topic. Those seeking to become permanent residents or naturalized citizens of the United States must understand their rights and responsibilities as well as their options for staying in the country legally. This guide covers the details you need to know, from the different types of immigration status and green […]
Best Personal Loans for Immigrants
If you’re an immigrant in the United States, chances are you’re looking at a very different financial landscape than the one your parents or grandparents face. That’s because a lot of the financial products and services that they may have used in their native countries aren’t available to them here. But that doesn’t mean there […]
Can an NRI Vote in India? What Returning NRIs Need to Know
“I’ve been living in the US for 12 years. I’m moving back to India next year. Can I vote in the next election?” I get this question a lot in our WhatsApp community. And the answer sounds simple on the surface. Yes. If you’re an Indian citizen, you can vote. But the reality? It’s messier […]
Who is an NRI? Here’s All You Need to Know
An NRI, or Non-Resident Indian, is an Indian citizen who lives or works abroad. According to the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), an NRI is limited to the tax status of an Indian citizen who is living abroad and can also be a Person of Indian Origin (PIO). To qualify as an NRI, an individual […]
Can NRI Get Aadhaar Card? Everything You Need to Know
“Will I be able to get an Aadhaar card when I move back?” This question comes up in almost every call I have with NRIs planning their return. And I understand the worry. Aadhaar has become so central to life in India – from opening bank accounts to getting a SIM card to filing taxes […]
Which is the best city to settle back in India (For returning Indians)
India is a vast and diverse country, with something to offer every family. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back lifestyle in the south, or an urban lifestyle in the north, there is a city for you! Here is our top 10 list of cities in India that are perfect for families. Learn about the best […]
How to apply for a visit visa for parents visiting USA
To apply for a nonimmigrant visa for parents to visit the United States, you will need to follow these steps: 1. Determine the type of visa you need. The type of visa you will need depends on the purpose of your trip to the United States. For example, if you are planning to visit the […]
VFS Global Centers in the USA (Full List)
For every NRI, it is important to know the nearest VFS global center – why? Well, you’ll need them for all kind of visa and passport document updates. VFS Global is a company that specializes in providing visa and passport services to governments across the world. The company was established in 2001, and has since […]
What’s the difference between Immigrants and Expats
Immigrants and expats are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they do not mean the same thing. An immigrant is a person who moves to a different country in order to live there permanently. This means that they intend to become a permanent resident and eventually a citizen of that country. An expat, […]
When does resident status change to NRI
Resident status is the legal classification of an individual under the Indian Tax System. It is used to determine the tax liability of the individual and is determined by the number of days of stay in India. An individual is classified as a Resident if he has stayed in India for more than 182 days […]
Which LIC policy is best for NRIs
NRIs (Non-Resident Indians) are Indian citizens who are living abroad. They are allowed to invest in India and enjoy certain tax benefits, but they must comply with the regulations set by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). The RBI has specific regulations that govern the investments and financial activities of NRIs. One of the major […]
NRI Quota in Indian Colleges & IIT: Everything to Know
“Can my son get into IIT through the NRI quota?” I get this question at least five times a week on our BacktoIndia WhatsApp groups. And the answer surprises most parents. IITs do not have an NRI quota. Let that sink in for a moment. Because this is the single biggest misconception among NRI parents […]
Laid off on H1B Visa? What to do next?
As the world struggles to deal with economic issues, many people on H1B visas have been laid off in USA. Losing your job can be a traumatic experience and it can be especially hard if you are in a foreign country with limited support networks. But there is hope – there are still ways to […]
Can NRI apply for PAN card – Step by Step Guide
Yes, Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) can apply for a Permanent Account Number (PAN) card. NRIs are required to submit certain documents and information in order to complete the application process. The first step is to fill out an application form. This form can be downloaded from the website of the Income Tax Department. It is important […]
Can NRI invest in RBI bonds
NRIs may be interested in investing their money in RBI bonds, which are government bonds issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Fortunately, NRIs are allowed to invest in RBI bonds, subject to certain conditions. Here’s how to. In order to invest in RBI bonds, NRIs must first obtain a “PAN” number. This is […]
Can NRI sell an inherited property in India
In India, Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) are allowed to buy and sell property, including inherited property. However, there are certain legal requirements that must be met before the sale can be completed. The first step is to obtain a certificate of inheritance from the court. This is done by filing an application with the court in […]
Can NRI start a proprietorship firm in India
“Mani, I just want to start a small consulting business in India. Nothing fancy. Do I really need to register a whole company?” I get asked this question constantly in our WhatsApp groups. And I completely understand why. A proprietorship is the simplest business structure in India. No board of directors. No annual filings with […]
Can NRIs Get a Credit Card in India? Your Questions Answered
This is one of the most common questions I get. “Mani, I’ve been in the US for 8 years. Can I even get a credit card in India?” Short answer: Yes. Absolutely. Long answer: It depends on your situation – whether you’re still abroad, planning to return, or already back. Each scenario has a different […]
Can NRI get a home loan in India
Whether a Non-Resident Indian (NRI) can get a home loan in India depends on a few factors. Firstly, an NRI is eligible to apply for a home loan in India if they have a valid Indian passport. Additionally, their income must be earned from a source outside India and must have been remitted to India […]
What is an NRE Account & Why is it Important
An NRE Account is a type of bank account specifically designed for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). This type of account allows NRIs to save and invest their money in India, while still keeping it tax-free. An NRE Account can be opened by any Indian citizen who has been living abroad for more than six months, and […]
Can NRI have savings account in India
NRI, or Non-Resident Indians, are allowed to open savings accounts in India. In fact, NRI savings accounts are designed specifically to meet the needs of NRIs who have left India, but still have financial interests in the country. NRI savings accounts can be opened with both public and private sector banks in India. The process […]
Can NRI Invest in PPF? Here’s the Straight Answer
Let me give you the direct answer first. No, NRIs cannot open a new PPF account in India. If you’re already an NRI looking to start a PPF account – it’s not allowed. But there’s a catch. If you opened a PPF account before becoming an NRI, you can continue it until maturity. Let me […]
Can NRI invest in Indian stocks
Yes, Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) can invest in Indian stocks. The Indian government allows NRIs to invest in Indian stocks and other financial instruments like mutual funds, debt instruments, and derivatives, provided they meet certain requirements. NRIs are allowed to invest in Indian stocks through two different routes: the Portfolio Investment Scheme (PIS) and the Foreign […]
Can NRI buy property in India
Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) are permitted to purchase and own property in India. This is regulated by the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) of 1999, which governs all foreign exchange transactions in India. Under FEMA, NRIs can purchase any kind of property in India, including residential, commercial, industrial or agricultural land. However, it should be noted […]
Do NRIs need to file taxes in India
Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) are required to file taxes in India, regardless of their place of residence. This is due to the fact that Indian citizens are subject to the Indian tax regime and are liable to pay taxes on their income, regardless of where it was earned. Income earned in India by NRIs is liable […]
Can NRI Apply for Aadhaar card (Application Process)
NRIs (Non-Resident Indians) can get Aadhaar cards. However, they are required to follow certain steps and provide certain documents in order to apply for and receive an Aadhaar card. The first step is to register for Aadhaar. This can be done at any Aadhaar center or online via the UIDAI website. To register, NRIs must […]
Can NRI Buy Agricultural Land in India
If you’re an NRI with an interest in buying property in India, you may have wondered whether it’s possible to purchase agricultural land. While NRIs can buy residential and commercial property, agricultural land falls under a special category, and the rules around it are quite strict. In this article, we’ll break down the rules and […]
Can NRI invest in Indian Mutual Funds (Answered)
Hey there! Mani here. When I moved back from California, figuring out what to do with my investments was super confusing. Let me break down everything about NRI mutual fund investments in India – the way I wish someone had explained it to me! Can NRIs Actually Invest in Indian Mutual Funds? Short answer: […]
What Does NRI Mean? Understanding Your Status
“Am I an NRI?” This is one of the most common questions I get in our WhatsApp community. And honestly, the answer isn’t always straightforward. The term NRI gets thrown around a lot. But what does it actually mean? And more importantly – why does it matter for your finances, taxes, and investments? Let me […]
How to Replace a Green Card
In this article, we’ll show you how to replace a green card. What is a green card? A green card is a vital document granting permanent residency in the US. It is required to renew your driver’s licence, apply for loans and mortgages, and to re-enter the US after a foreign trip. What if you […]
Return to India Experience – Interview w/ Ruchit Garg
We managed to talk with Ruchit Garg, who returned to Chandigarh after a spell of a successful career working with Microsoft and founding his own company while in the US. Currently, he is on a mission to help farmers in India sell, using the latest technology. He’s the CEO of Harvesting – a company he […]
How to Plan Your Move Back to India
If you’re an NRI reading this at your work place, home office or mobile phone, chances are that you might end up back in India some time soon! Little bit of context. This project started back in 2017 with just me, as I was planning my move back to India. I found that there […]
Should Indian F1 Student Visa Holders in the USA Return to India?
In a surprising move, the US Government (SEVP) has announced that student visa holders in the USA from other countries will have to return to their home countries if their courses are going fully online during the new semester in Fall 2020. (Source) According to the order, The U.S. Department of State will not issue […]
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Open the R2I Planner and get a phase-by-phase checklist for return to india: decision & planning.