Indian Expatriate Experience: What Life Abroad Looks Like for Indians
More and more Indians are packing their bags and heading to places like Singapore, the US, Canada, and even New Zealand. Why? Better jobs, quality education, or just the thrill of a new adventure. Whatever the reason, the first step is figuring out if the move fits your goals and budget.
Choosing the Right Destination
Every country has its own vibe. If you love a fast‑paced city with a strong Indian community, Singapore might feel like home – the cost of living is high but safety and public transport are top notch. The US, on the other hand, offers diverse job markets and a more relaxed immigration process for skilled workers, but you’ll need to adjust to a bigger cultural mix and sometimes a slower bureaucracy.
Take the example of a friend who compared Singapore and the US. He liked Singapore’s proximity to India and its excellent schools, but he chose the US for a research position that paid more and gave him room to travel across North America. The key is to list your priorities – salary, safety, community, climate – and see which country checks the most boxes.
Keeping Indian Roots Alive
Living abroad doesn’t mean you have to leave your culture behind. Indian food, festivals, and language can thrive in a foreign city. Join local Indian associations, attend Diwali events, or start a weekend cooking club. Many expatriates keep a small spice rack with turmeric, cumin, and garam masala – it’s the easiest way to feel at home.
Even the news stays close. Platforms like India Reflector News bring you real‑time updates from back home, so you never miss a political shift or a cricket match. Speaking of cricket, watching a T20 game with fellow expats is a great ice‑breaker. One of our readers shared how a rain‑shortened match in Dunedin helped him bond with locals and other Indians alike.
Staying connected also means building a network for professional growth. Attend industry meet‑ups, LinkedIn events, or community seminars. These gatherings often feature Indian CEOs or senior professionals who can mentor newcomers. A recent post highlighted PM Modi’s meeting with energy CEOs in Houston – a reminder that Indian influence is expanding worldwide, and you can tap into that momentum.
Finally, remember that challenges are part of the journey. You might face homesickness, cultural misunderstandings, or paperwork delays. Talk to other expats who’ve been through the same hurdles; their stories can save you weeks of trial and error. Most importantly, keep an open mind and enjoy the mix of new experiences while staying true to your Indian identity.
