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Retiring in India | Expat Exchange
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Retire in India

William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on May 19, 2023

Summary: Retirees are often attracted to India for its rich culture, vibrant cities, and diverse landscapes. India is also known for its affordable cost of living, making it an attractive destination for retirees. Additionally, India offers a wide range of activities and attractions, from its stunning beaches to its ancient temples and monuments. The weather in India varies greatly depending on the region, but generally speaking, temperatures range from the mid-50s to the mid-90s Fahrenheit (10-35 Celsius).

What is it like to retire in India?

"In India, life for a retiree is generally quite pleasant and fulfilling. There are a range of activities available, particularly in cities, to cater to retirees. Expats can join lively communities and connect with like-minded people who enjoy the same things. There are many cultural events and attractions to explore such as temples, monuments, festivals, and bazaars. For the active retiree, there is plenty of outdoor recreation such as trekking and exploring beaches and mountains. There are plenty of leisurely and social activities available, from spa and yoga centers to golf courses and swimming pools. There are also plenty of nightlife options, from neighborhood pubs and rooftop bars to popular clubs and lounges," said a retiree who moved to India.

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What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in India?

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in India is the lack of a comprehensive social security system. This means that retirees are often reliant on their own savings or investments to fund their retirement. Additionally, India's healthcare system is inadequate and can be expensive for retirees, as most health insurance plans do not cover the health needs of the elderly. Furthermore, retirees in India may experience difficulty accessing government benefits and other financial resources due to lack of awareness and adequate support. Finally, India's taxation structure is complicated and can be hard to navigate as a retiree," commented one retiree living in India.

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What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in India?

"Retiring in India can be an incredibly rewarding experience. After a lifetime of hard work and dedication, one can appreciate the peace, cultural richness, and relaxed pace of life that India has to offer. The culture provides a safe and welcoming environment for retirees to explore and reconnect with their heritage. Many retirees in India also take advantage of the country’s healthcare and medical wellness facilities, all of which focus on promoting holistic, preventative care. Of course, the most rewarding aspect of retiring in India is being able to spend time with family, friends and other loved ones, creating memories that will last a lifetime," explained a retiree in India.

What are healthcare services like in India?

We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in India. They wrote:

"Healthcare services in India are predominantly provided by the public sector although there is a growing presence of private providers. The primary healthcare providers in India are general practitioners, often referred to as 'barefoot doctors', who mainly operate in rural areas. Secondary healthcare providers include specialist and super-specialist doctors who are available in major cities. India has an extensive network of hospitals which range from sophisticated corporate and research hospitals to more rural primary health care centres. The government subsidizes certain medical treatments and services, including medications and primary care. Additionally, the Government runs many health insurance plans through its national programs. Access to healthcare in India is highly variable and remains a problem in many areas," commented one retiree living in India.

How do I meet people in India?

When we asked people living in India about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"In 2010 we moved from New Zealand to Bangalore for my wife to take up a teaching role, along with us we brought our youngest son who was 9 at the time. We enrolled him in Trio World School (now Trio World Academy) where my wife was teaching. The school was a lot like being part of a large extended family, friendships were forged that have lasted till today and I expect beyond. At the time Trio being a International School following the Cambridge curriculum was an excellent fit and provided an incredible foundation for our son's future. Today Trio offers Cambridge and IB Curriculum's at Trio World Academy, ICSE Indian curriculum at Trio World School and world class kindergarten care at Trio Tots. I would absolutely recommend this school to parents wanting to educate their children in Bangalore," said a retiree who moved to Bangalore, India.

"Expats living in India often join churches, sports teams, and local meet-up groups to connect with other expats. Additionally, many embassies and consulates host monthly social events where expats can meet and network with each other. Expats can also attend cultural and educational events hosted by universities or cultural organizations. Many expats find that the best way to meet people is to volunteer with a local charity, as many volunteers are fellow expats looking for a chance to meet other like-minded individuals. Lastly, joining local social media groups or discussion forums can be a great way for expats to connect with each other and share their experiences in India," said one retiree in India.

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What is life like in India?

When we asked people living in India what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Basically, in India, daily life revolves around five quadrant i.e family, work, religion, self and socializing. But for the past few years the younger generation are more focused on work and being financially secured, unlike the older generation who had a higher level of contentment," said one retiree in living in Hyderabad, India.

"Living as an expat or digital nomad in India can be quite a rewarding experience. With its vibrant culture, bustling cities and mesmerizing landscapes, India offers a lot to explore and experience. Accommodations are generally affordable, making it relatively easy to find a comfortable place to live. Expats and digital nomads enjoy having access to a wide variety of delicious cuisines and frequent opportunities to travel and explore. While obstacles such as language barriers may present challenges, with perseverance and a bit of effort, it is possible to adjust to living in India. Connecting with the local community, making an effort to participate in traditions and festivals can make the transition much smoother and more enjoyable," explained a retiree in India.

"For the working partner, life revolves around work and related socalizing. However, there is plenty to do in terms of sport clubs, Movie Clubs, Toast Masters Club, etc..," explained one retiree living in Pune.

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What do I need to know before retiring in India?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to India, they said:

"Before retiring in India, expats should take time to research their visas, the cost of living in India, and any other paperwork necessary to complete the process, such as tax forms and documents. They should also be aware of the culture, language, and climate in the region they plan to reside in — being able to communicate basic necessities in a foreign language is essential. Additionally, it’s important to familiarize oneself with local healthcare and emergency services should the need arise. Furthermore, expats should consider the various forms of entertainment and leisure activities found in their region. Finally, investing in a good travel health insurance is necessary to ensure secure medical care and coverage," explained a retiree in India.

"To get in touch with someone who has been or knows somebody in that city, before and after coming, as Indians are generally very hospitable and like to help others, The fact is that almost every second household has someone from the family settled abroad ( Worldwide )," explained one retiree living in Hyderabad.

"I would recommend it highly. The weather is amazing. Infrastructure is something that needs improvement, but overall its a thumbs up," said one member in Pune.

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What type of recreational activities are there in India?

"In India, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, beaches, and amusement parks. Parks provide a great place for people to relax and enjoy nature, while beaches offer a great place to swim, sunbathe, and take part in water sports. Amusement parks provide a fun and exciting way to spend time with family and friends, with rides, games, and other attractions. Other recreational facilities include sports stadiums, golf courses, and movie theaters. Residents also enjoy cultural activities such as festivals, concerts, and theater performances," explained one retiree living in India.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in India?

"People living in India typically buy groceries from local markets, convenience stores, and supermarkets. Other shopping can be done at malls, department stores, and online stores. Additionally, many people in India shop at street markets and roadside vendors for fresh produce and other items," said one retiree in living in India.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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William Russell
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