Moving Back to India – Practical Checklist

Created by Cheli

Step‑by‑step tasks to handle finances, documents, living arrangements, and cultural adjustments when returning to India after living abroad.

32 Items

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Published May 17, 2026

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Checklist Items (32)

Financial Setup

Organize all money matters before departure and after arrival.

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Close or downgrade foreign bank accounts

Transfer remaining balances, settle fees, and keep a record of account closure confirmations.

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Open Indian savings/current account

Choose a bank with good digital services; bring PAN, passport, and address proof.

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Set up UPI and net‑banking

Link your new account to UPI apps (Google Pay, PhonePe) for everyday payments.

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Determine tax residency status

If you stay >182 days, you become an Indian tax resident; file FY return accordingly.

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Report foreign assets to RBI (FEMA)

Declare overseas accounts and investments using Form A2, if thresholds are met.

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Transfer funds using regulated channels

Use authorised dealer banks or NEFT/RTGS to move money; avoid informal routes.

Legal & Documentation

Update all essential IDs and permits for living in India.

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Update passport address with overseas embassy

Ensure your passport reflects your current Indian address for visa purposes.

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Convert foreign driving licence

Apply for a Indian licence conversion within 30 days of arrival at the local RTO.

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Obtain PAN (Permanent Account Number)

Required for taxes, banking, and many services; apply online via NSDL.

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Enroll for Aadhaar

Visit a nearby Aadhaar Enrolment Centre with proof of identity and address.

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Check OCI/PIO status

If you hold OCI, verify its validity and update address; renew if needed.

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Register for EPF (if employed)

Ensure your employer enrolls you in the Employees Provident Fund scheme.

Housing & Utilities

Secure a place to live and essential services.

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Research rental market and neighborhoods

Use portals like 99acres or MagicBricks; consider commute, safety, and amenities.

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Set up electricity and water connections

Contact local DISCOM and municipal water department; keep copy of agreement.

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Get broadband/Internet

Compare plans from Airtel, JioFiber, or local ISPs; schedule installation before move-in.

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Register for LPG gas connection

Apply through local distributor; keep the cylinder safety valve inspection up to date.

Healthcare

Arrange medical coverage and local care providers.

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Purchase comprehensive health insurance

Choose a plan covering hospitalization, OPD, and COVID; compare via PolicyBazaar.

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Find a primary care physician

Visit a reputable clinic or hospital in your area; keep their contact handy.

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Transfer medical records

Request electronic copies from your abroad doctor; bring prescriptions for continuity.

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Check required vaccinations

Ensure tetanus, hepatitis, and any region‑specific shots are up to date.

Transportation

Understand local mobility options and regulations.

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Familiarise with Indian traffic rules

Review the Motor Vehicles Act; note differences like left‑hand turn on red in some states.

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Register personal vehicle (if bringing one)

Obtain a No‑Objection Certificate, pay road tax, and get Indian registration plates.

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Consider buying a two‑wheeler

Popular for city commuting; inspect brand reputation, service network, and resale value.

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Learn parking and congestion‑charge norms

Many metros impose high parking fees; use apps like Park+ for spot reservations.

Cultural Adaptation

Prepare for social and workplace nuances.

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Learn basic Hindi (or regional language) phrases

Focus on greetings, directions, and market bargaining to ease daily interactions.

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Familiarise with major festivals and holidays

Know dates for Diwali, Holi, and local celebrations; plan travel and gifts accordingly.

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Adjust to Indian food habits

Gradually incorporate spices, oil levels, and street‑food hygiene practices.

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Understand workplace hierarchy and communication style

Expect clearer chain‑of‑command and more indirect feedback; adapt email tone.

Everyday Logistics

Set up routine services and local practices.

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Get Indian mobile number and SIM

Visit a local retailer; choose a prepaid or postpaid plan with ample data.

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Learn local recycling and waste segregation rules

Most cities separate wet, dry, and hazardous waste; follow municipal guidelines.

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Understand power backup expectations

Many areas have load‑shedding; keep a UPS or inverter for essential devices.

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Set up digital payment wallets

Install Paytm, PhonePe, or Google Pay; link to your bank for seamless transactions.