Living in Bangalore as an expatriate

Visa requirements

To move to Bangalore, you'll need an employment visa or a business visa, depending on the nature of your work or business. You can check with the Indian embassy in your country for further details. As an expat, you'll have to apply for a Permanent Account Number (PAN), a 10-digit alphanumeric number issued by the Indian tax authorities, to file income tax returns.

Language resources

While English is widely spoken, it's still important for expats to learn basic Hindi or Kannada, which are the primary languages used in Bangalore. The city is home to several language schools and language exchange programs that focus on English, Hindi, and Kannada. Alternatively, many digital apps and platforms offer language learning modules catering to non-native speakers.

Housing

Accommodation in Bangalore is reasonably priced, and the rent depends on the locality and the type of housing. A basic room in a shared house is around INR 8,000 to INR 12,000 ($108 to $162) per month. A one-bedroom apartment costs between INR 15,000 to INR 20,000 ($202 to $272) per month, while a two-bedroom apartment is around INR 20,000 to INR 28,000 ($272 to $373) per month. A three or more bedroom house is available for INR 30,000 to INR 45,000 ($408 to $609) per month.

Groceries

Supermarkets in Bangalore offer a mix of Indian and international products at reasonable prices. Expats can purchase raw vegetables and fruits from local markets where the rates are much lower than the supermarkets. Average monthly grocery expenses for one person range from INR 12,000 to INR 15,000 ($162 to $202) depending upon food preferences.

Transportation

Public transport in the city is not expensive, making it an affordable option for daily commuters. An average one-way ride on the metro is around INR 30 ($0.42), while a weekly bus pass costs INR 200 ($2.72) for locals and INR 300 ($4.08) for foreign nationals. Auto rickshaws are another popular way of getting around, but it's suggested to negotiate the fare before embarking on the ride.

Bangalore enjoys a tropical savanna climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The average temperature in July, the hottest month, is 23°C (73°F), and in January, the coldest month, it's 17°C (63°F). The city experiences two distinct seasons - the northeast monsoon (October to December) and the southwest monsoon (June to September). Rainfall is abundant during the monsoon season, and the easiest way to travel around during these months is by car.

Bangalore is a hub for multinational companies, start-ups, and IT majors. The city's thriving job market offers a wide variety of opportunities across industries like technology, finance, healthcare, and education. Some of the top companies headquartered in Bangalore include Infosys, Biocon, Wipro, and Philips. The local tech industry is particularly strong and often dubbed as the Silicon Valley of India.

Bangalore is home to some of the most prominent healthcare facilities in India. With renowned hospitals like Fortis, Apollo, and Columbia Ascent, the city offers a range of medical services from specialized treatment options to general health checkups. The nursing staff and doctors are highly trained, and the level of medical care is known to be excellent. Quality healthcare facilities in the city are available round the clock at affordable prices.

Bangalore has a well-connected public transportation system to help expats move around the city with ease. The city's metro network, Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL), covers over 80 kilometers (50 miles) of distance, and there are plans to expand it further. Buses and taxis are plentiful, but it's worthwhile to avoid peak hours when traffic becomes congested. Cycle rentals will take you through greenways and parks, making Bangalore an eco-friendly city.

Bangalore, in general, is considered a safe city. However, it's crucial to be aware of petty crimes like pickpocketing and street scams. It's best to avoid deserted areas at night, and if possible, stay in well-lit public places. As a foreigner, take cautionary measures like locking your belongings and valuables securely.