Living in Spain as an Indian is a unique experience filled with rich culture, warm people, and delicious cuisine. The language barrier can be a challenge initially, but with time, one can learn and adapt to the Spanish dialect. The lifestyle is laid-back and family-oriented, which is quite similar to Indian culture. Spain's natural beauty and historic architecture adds to the appeal, but there can be instances of cultural shocks and occasional homesickness. Overall, it's an enlightening experience that broadens your perspective on life.
Indian Expat Life: What You Need to Know Before You Go
If you’re an Indian planning to move abroad, the excitement and nerves often walk hand‑in‑hand. You might wonder about housing, food, paperwork, and how to keep that home‑town feeling alive. Below you’ll find straightforward advice that cuts through the noise and helps you settle faster.
Find Your Community Quickly
The first thing most expats do is look for other Indians nearby. Join local Facebook groups, WhatsApp chats, or meetup events. These circles can point you to trustworthy doctors, grocery stores, and even help you decode local bureaucracy. A quick “Hello, I’m new here” in a community chat can lead to a friend showing you where to buy masala or where the nearest temple is.
Take Care of the Paperwork
Visas, work permits, and tax IDs are the backbone of a smooth stay. Keep digital copies of your passport, visa approval, and employment contract in cloud storage. In many countries, you’ll need a local bank account; open one as soon as you get a PAN number and a proof of address. Don’t wait for the bank to ask for documents—prepare them in advance to avoid delays.
Health insurance is another must‑have. Some employers cover it, but if you’re on a student visa or freelance, research local policies that include outpatient care. A simple search for “Indian expat health insurance in [country]” will bring up several options.
Remember to inform the Indian embassy about your stay. They can help in emergencies, renew passports, and sometimes arrange cultural events that make you feel at home.
When you land, take a few days to explore your neighborhood. Identify the nearest grocery store that sells Indian staples, the pharmacy that accepts your health card, and the bus stop or metro station that connects you to the city center. Knowing these basics reduces daily stress and lets you focus on work or studies.
Don’t forget to set up a routine that balances work and personal life. Indian cuisine can be heavy, so try cooking simple meals with local veggies and adding a pinch of Indian spices. This keeps you healthy and saves money.
If you’re missing family, schedule regular video calls. Apps like WhatsApp, Zoom, and Google Meet work well even with limited bandwidth. Sharing a virtual meal can make the distance feel shorter.
Financial planning matters too. Convert some rupees into the local currency early, but keep a small INR reserve for online Indian purchases. Use reliable money‑transfer apps that offer low fees and good exchange rates.
Finally, stay open to new experiences. Attend local festivals, try regional dishes, and learn basic phrases in the local language. The more you engage, the faster you’ll build a sense of belonging.
Being an Indian expat means carrying a piece of home wherever you go. With the right connections, organized paperwork, and a willingness to explore, you can turn that new city into a comfortable second home.