Use our expert curated checklist to track your step- by- step progress in India in your initial days here.Â
Your Progress0%
0
Tasks Completed
19
Total Tasks
14
Days to Complete
Days 1-3: Immediate Priorities
URGENT
Get Indian SIM Card
Visit Airtel/Jio/Vi store with passport, visa, passport photo, and proof of address (hotel booking). Activation takes 24-48 hours.
Critical
Apply for PAN Card
India's tax identification number—essential for everything. Apply online via NSDL or through your employer. Bring passport, visa, photos, and address proof.
Critical
Complete Arrival Documents
Submit required paperwork to employer HR: passport copies, visa, educational certificates, previous employment letters, and bank details.
High
Currency Exchange & Initial Cash
Exchange currency at airport or authorized dealers. Keep enough cash for first week (₹10,000-20,000) until bank account is ready.
High
Find Temporary Accommodation
Book hotel/serviced apartment for first 2 weeks while house hunting. Popular options: OYO, Airbnb, or corporate housing through employer.
Medium
💡 Pro Tip: PAN Card
Your PAN (Permanent Account Number) is like your Social Security Number—you'll need it for absolutely everything: opening bank accounts, renting apartments, buying property, filing taxes, and even some big purchases. Don't skip this step!
Days 4-7: Essential Setup
IMPORTANT
Register with FRRO
Mandatory within 14 days for Employment/Business visas (>180 days). Book online appointment, bring passport, visa, address proof, and employer letter.
Critical
Open Bank Account
Choose HDFC, ICICI, or Axis Bank (expat-friendly). Bring passport, visa, PAN card (or application receipt), photos, and employment letter.
Critical
Get Local Transport Apps
Download Uber, Ola (Indian Uber), city metro app, and Google Maps. Set up payment methods in these apps.
High
Find Healthcare Provider
Locate nearest hospital, get health insurance card, download Practo app for doctor appointments, and save emergency numbers.
High
Explore Local Markets
Find nearby grocery stores, pharmacies, and restaurants. Try local food delivery apps like Zomato and Swiggy.
Medium
💡 What is FRRO?
FRRO (Foreigner Regional Registration Office) is where all foreigners on long-term visas (>180 days) must register. Think of it as immigration check-in after arrival. You'll get a Residential Permit sticker in your passport. This is NOT optional—it's a legal requirement with serious penalties for non-compliance.
Days 8-14: Settling In
SETTLING
Finalize Housing
Sign lease agreement (11-month typical), understand TDS on rent, get inventory list, and set up utilities (electricity, gas, internet).
Critical
Receive PAN Card
Should arrive within 7-15 days. Update PAN details with employer, link to bank account, and keep copies safe.
Critical
School Admissions (if applicable)
Research international schools (IB, IGCSE, CBSE), schedule visits, submit applications with passport, visa, and previous school records.
High
Understand EPF/PF System
Get UAN (Universal Account Number) from employer. Register on EPFO portal. This is India's social security/pension equivalent.
High
Join Expat Community
Find local expat groups on Facebook, Meetup, or InterNations. Connect with others from your home country. Build your network.
Medium
Set Up Internet & DTH
Choose broadband provider (Airtel, Jio, ACT). If needed, get DTH (Dish TV/Tata Sky) or streaming services (Hotstar, Prime, Netflix).
Medium
Celebrate Your First Two Weeks!
You've made it through the hardest part. Treat yourself to a nice dinner, explore a local attraction, and take a breath. Welcome home!
Medium
🎉 Almost There!
By Day 14, you should have: ✓ Phone working ✓ PAN Card applied/received ✓ Bank account open ✓ FRRO registered ✓ Housing sorted ✓ Basic understanding of daily life. Everything else will fall into place gradually. You're doing great!
