Doing Business in India For Dummies®

Settling In for a Longer Stay

A one- to two-year contract where a company sends employees to start up a business in India is becoming common these days. If you find yourself in this position, you may need hand holding and more detailed advice from a relocation company to help you in the city of your choice.

In this section, I provide tips on finding a home, hooking up your basic utilities, and getting medical care. Be warned that adjusting to life in India may take some time, but living in India can be a great experience if you have an open mind and the will to simply get used to a different lifestyle. Things aren’t going to be like “back home,” so you may as well jump in with both feet into this adventure. If you do, you can enjoy an amazing overseas stint.

Finding a place to call home

If you’re going to be in India for a while, look into long-term accommodations. Your home is your castle, temporary or otherwise, and you can feel settled if you get into the right home. Renting or buying property is the question. In India, renting is often the only option because buying property for foreigners requires special permissions from the Reserve Bank of India.

Renting an apartment

Many foreign businesspeople choose to rent apartments. Ask your Indian contacts and co-workers, or other expatriates, for the name of a good broker or firm that can help you find a suitable apartment. Look for one who’s used to working with foreigners. They are more familiar with your needs and better able ...