Settling-In Tips from
Staff at Crown Bangalore

What is special or unique about your city?

Synonymous with the I-T revolution in India, Bengaluru is the capital of the state of Karnataka in India. With a population of approximately of 6.8 million (2006), Bangalore is India's third-largest city. The sylvan surroundings of Bangalore are sure to soothe your weary nerves. Bangalore has earned the sobriquets "Silicon Valley of India", “Pub Capital of India" with the largest number of pubs in Asia, and "City of Gardens" among others. With its beautiful parks, avenues, multiplexes and historical monuments, Bangalore is undoubtedly bubbling with life and energy. Today, as a large and growing metropolis, Bangalore is home to numerous public sector heavy industries, software companies, aerospace, telecommunications, and defence organisations are located in the city. A demographically diverse city, Bangalore is a major economic hub and the fastest growing major metropolis in India.

What are a newcomer's first impressions of your city?

On entering Bangalore, like any other Indian city, the first thing to notice will be the traffic but apart from that, the gardens and weather will be something special about the city. Bangalore used to be known as the Garden City of India, due to the many city parks in every area in the city, including the large 300-acre Cubbon Park in the centre of city, similar to NYC's Central Park or San Francisco's Golden Gate Park. But that was 20 years ago, before Bangalore doubled, tripled, and quadrupled in population to seven million. A lot of gardens have been encroached because of the urbanisation and the number of gardens is reducing every day. The temperature is moderate throughout the year and Bangalore has also won the title of “air-conditioned city of India” with a tropical and pleasant climate.

Are these impressions likely to change?

The city and region continues to experience the global change in temperatures and every year the summers seem hotter and drier although Bangalore still remains to be one of the most pleasant cities of India. The changes are based on the city expansions but the impression of the city has remained the same for a while.

What is the local language?

The regional language is Kannada, which is the state language. Because of its varied and vast population, English is the most commonly spoken and understood language in most places. Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam and Urdu are also widely spoken among the commoners.

How easily could I live in this city without knowing this language?

Fairly easily as most people understand and speak English including local auto rickshaw drivers and street vendors, though the Indian accent may have to be given a keen understanding on.

What are good things to remember in order to avoid offending the other residents of this city?

Do not use your left hand to touch anyone, accept/give money, or eat (unless you are left handed)! Use it as a support hand for the right hand, if extremely necessary. People in Bangalore eat food with their fingers. While most of the nicer restaurants will serve you with spoons/forks and knives, you can expect food without cutlery at homes and local restaurants. Wash your hands at basins available with these restaurants and always remember to use your right hand to have your meals. One should remember to wash hands after touching footwear. No footwear is allowed at places of worship and may be in some of the Hindu houses. Most locals would like you to keep your footwear out of the house entirely, especially in the kitchen.

How might the local weather affect my daily life?

Unlike other parts of India which are extremely hot in the summer months, Bangalore enjoys a relatively mild climate year round. February to May are the warmest months of the year with June to August being Windy and the season for the South-West Monsoon, September to November are rainy because of the North-East Monsoon and December to February being the coldest months but very pleasant and not too chilly. There are often light showers of retreating monsoon in December as well. Temperatures are moderate and the goes as high as 38 degree Celsius to a lowest of 11 degree Celsius.

Is there anything else I should know about the overall character of your city or its people?

People are quite friendly and some of them are still traditional during interaction with a new person. However expats in the country are treated like guests at home. You may also find commoners coming out to help you voluntarily.

Useful Links

http://www.bangalorebest.com http://www.virtualbangalore.com http://foss.in/about/about-bangalore http://www.onlinebangalore.com Expat Blog: http://www.expat-blog.com/en/directory/asia/india/bangalore/ Also check travel blogs of travelers. Google search for “Bangalore blogs”.

 

As a foreign resident, what is my status in your country?

With a right visa and resident permit you would not have any issues in the country. However, you are yet a temporary resident.

What kinds of visas are available?

Employment Visa: Apply for this visa if you are coming to Bangalore for employment through the current employer, wherein the endorsed visa contains the details of the employer’s name, legal entity and the duration of visa. With this visa, your spouse and minor children can accompany you. Business Visa: If the visit to Bangalore is on temporary business (lasting between one month and one year), this is the appropriate visa to apply. This is usually valid for a short duration and family cannot accompany you. Tourist Visa: A Tourist Visa is given to those visiting India for tourism or other non-business related purposes and can be even granted to accompanying partner and children. It is valid for 6 months to 10 years. Ten (10) year visa is available only to US citizens under a bilateral arrangement. Irrespective of the duration of validity of visa, on each visit maximum period of stay in India is limited to 6 months (180 days). Multiple entry visas are given. It cannot be extended and cannot be converted to another visa. Dependant Visa: This visa is for the spouse and other accompanying family members. Anyone holding this visa cannot be employed in the country. If your spouse is interested in working in the country, he/she should apply for an employment visa in the Home country or the country of last assignment.

What is required to obtain these visas?

Applying for a visa is a relatively straightforward process. However, it is very important to check that you are applying for the correct visa, as it is not possible to change your visa type once you are in the country.Application for a visa should be made at the country of origin or country of last employment. Further, one should always apply for a multiple entry visa. This is needed in case of any travel outside India undertaken by the employee during the period of assignment in India. Immigration Process & Documents Required PRE-ARRIVAL One should possess a valid passport for at least eighteen (18) months upon arrival in India and should contain Minimum of four empty pages. Children’s / infants should have their own passport You must lodge the application for the employment visa and the appropriate visa for your accompanying family members (if relevant), and the supporting documents listed below, outside of India at the Indian Embassy/Consulate in your country of legal residence (see details below) in person. Documents required to be lodged with the Indian Embassy/Consulate. The original passport of the main applicant and passports of each accompanying family member, if any Completed visa application form – please forwards a copy of the completed forms to us by fax or email for checking prior to your lodging with the Indian Embassy/Consulate in your current location of residence. Original 2 passport sized photographs for you, and each accompanying family member, if any Copy of your resume Copy of your marriage certificate, if applicable Copy of your children's birth certificates, if applicable Guarantee and invitation letter from Corporate Important information Please contact the respective Indian Embassy in your current location and run through the above documents with the visa officer in- charge before submitting your application’s as the checklist and fee structure may be revised without notification.

Are spouses permitted and/or likely to find work?

Spouses are not allowed to find gainful employment while on a dependant visa. However, NGOs and Nonprofit organization may be considered as options for part time work. There are agencies and Overseas Women’s Club who would be assisting in locating suitable opportunity for such requirements. If they are interested in working full-time they will need to obtain an employment visa of their own for which they would have to return to their Home country.

What are the main forms of identification and how does a newcomer obtain them?

A foreign national arriving in India with the appropriate visa and intending to stay over 180 days in the country is required to register with the Foreigner's Regional Registration Office (commonly referred to as the FRRO). Registration must be completed within 14 days of arrival, failing which there is a fine of US$30 per person. POST-ARRIVAL After your arrival in India, Crown Relocations in coordination with your Host country HR will assist you to obtain your residence permit. This procedure must be done within 14 days after arrival into the country. Documents required in India for Registration Forms to be completed when you arrive in India, All family members will need to register 3 copies per passport (Main page, Indian visa page) 5 photographs Letter from the Corporate addressed to the Commissioner of Police stating the details of the applicant and where he/she is staying in India (Handled by India HR) Terms & Conditions of contract of Employment. Financial Guarantee Affidavit on Rs.20/- stamp paper (Handled by India HR) Copy of Address proof. All Applicant needs to physically present at the Police Commissioner’s office for registration The residence permit is usually received in two to three working days. Together, the passport and residence permit booklet will provide all necessary official permission documenting the employee's stay in India. This permit has to be handed over to airport immigration at the time of final departure from India.

Are there any other important permits I must obtain, or places where I must register right away?

The required document announced by the Ministry of Home Affairs – New Delhi is covered under the FRRO, i.e RP / the Resident Permit.

What items should I avoid bringing into the country?

There is high restriction on carrying alcohol, liquor (2 litres per passenger), drugs, firearms or pornographic material into India. There is a mandatory ten-year sentence for possession of even small amounts of drugs.

Is there anything else I should know about entering and remaining in the country legally?

Please be aware of the expiry dates of your passport, visa and residential permit and keep them in safe custody. Inform your HR and Crown Representative at least 90 days in advance of the expiry date, in case you plan on staying longer and need it to be extended. Also make enough number of copies to use wherever necessary. Inform the Host Crown Representative if you plan to leave the country well in advance, so that necessary documentation can be arranged, if necessary. Furthermore, be updated and seek information on the Political and social environment with the Embassy during the visa application submission or before your return to India.

Useful Links

Consular Passport and Visa Division of India http://www.passport.nic.in http://india.gov.in/overseas/passport.php Crown Bangalore Crown Worldwide Movers Pvt Ltd. # 194, 2nd Cross, Koramangala 1st Block, Bangalore - 560 034 Ph no: +91 80 255 04126 Telefax : +91 80 255 04127 Web:http://www.crownrelo.com

 

What is the local currency?

The Indian monetary unit is the Rupee (Rupees or INR), which can be divided into 100 Paise.

What denominations does it come in?

1,000, 500, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1 Rupees. Coins come in denominations of Rupees 10, 5, 2, 1 and Paise 50, and 25.

What is the best way to exchange currency?

The best way is to go through a licensed moneychanger. Most banks and larger hotels offer this facility. Avoid using Airport or Hotel to exchange larger amounts as the exchange rates provided are generally lower compared to a dedicated foreign exchange agency.

What are commonly-used forms of payment for everyday purchases (such as groceries)?

Smaller shops will only accept cash, but larger supermarkets and gas stations accept credit cards/debit cards.

Will I be able to use my credit card around town? If not, list when I’ll need cash.

Most large establishments, good restaurants and gas stations will accept cards. While traveling for weekend or holiday spots or sight seeing and while using local transport like buses, taxis or auto rickshaws please carry enough liquid Indian currency for immediate use.

By what method are bills (such as rent and utilities) paid?

Bills can be paid by check, but many utilities (like telephone or electricity bills) can also be paid online. Credit cards can now be used to pay utility bills online on some dedicated websites. Additionally, one can set up an electronic collection system, which allows the billing company to directly debit your bank account for that amount.

What are the requirements for opening a bank account? At what stage of the settling-in process should I open it?

Crown Bangalore recommends the QA22 account for expatriates, as this is the most viable option. Currently, the QA22 account allows the account holder to bank in funds in local currency (INR) as well as in foreign currency, but withdrawals are only possible in local currency. Repatriation of funds out of India (in foreign currency) at the time of closure may be limited (varies by bank), but withdrawal of all account funds in local currency (INR) can be done at any time. The following is a list of documents required for a QA22 bank account application: Completed Form QA 22. Each bank will have their respective forms for the QA22 account. The employee needs to complete all information and meet personally with the bank official for an interview before the application will be accepted. Declaration of (overseas) sources of credit into account Two recent passport-size photos Letter of employment from the local office of your company One US Dollar to open the account Copy of valid passport and Employment visa (E-type) Most banks insist on an average quarterly minimum balance of INR 10,000. Also, some banks like Citibank now have special account options for expatriates wishing to have Indian Bank Account.

Will foreign residents be able to find banking services in their native languages?

You will be able to find banking materials in English if required a translated document can be coordinated from the Bank itself.

Are there any restrictions on services for those who are new to your country?

Nothing specific.

What are typical banking hours?

Typically, banks are open from 09:30 hrs to 17:30hrs on weekdays, and 09:00 hrs to 13:00 hrs on Saturday. Sunday is the weekly holiday, and banks are closed. However, many banks have one or more of their branches open on Sundays for the convenience of people who work. National Holidays and State Holidays are applicable for most of the Banks in India (to be checked with the specific Banks for their declared holidays).

Are automatic teller machines (ATMs) available around the clock?

ATMs are available around the clock. Internet Banking options are also available for most of Banks in India.

Is there any other money information that might help me?

The Indian numeric system is similar to the Western decimal system, although Indians use the terms Lakhs and Crores to describe certain large numbers. A Lakh is equal to 100 thousand and a Crore is equal to 10 million. Even when writing numbers this uniquely Indian system is used. 1,00, 000 is 1 Lakh and 1,00,00,000 is one Crore.

Useful Links

Universal Currency Converter http://www.oanda.com http://www.xe.com Banks in Bangalore: ABN AMRO Bank: http://www.abnamro.co.in Bank of America: https://www.bankofamerica.com American Express Bank: http://www.americanexpress.com/india HSBC Bank: http://www.hsbc.co.in Scotia Bank: http://www.scotiabank.com Deutsche Bank: http://www.db.com/india CitiBank: http://www.online.citibank.co.in HDFC Bank: https://www.hdfcbank.com

 

What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?

Keep in mind the driving distance and the commute time from the work place and children's school. Distance is not the only criteria while deciding this but the traffic conditions are!! You also should assess what your requirements are. How big a place do you require, do you want to be in the city centre or suburbs, do you prefer a single family home, gated villa or apartment? Diligence needs to be exercised in making sure that the proposed housing is sufficient in terms of electricity, water supply and phone connections. Make sure there are facilities for groceries, vegetables, meats and medicines close by. It might sometimes be difficult to find the material comforts that expatriates are generally used to, though you have all kinds of domestic help like a cook, maid, driver, gardener, nanny etc available at very reasonable costs.

What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?

Real estate in Bangalore offers you a wide selection of accommodation, including Gated communities with Villas, Free standing houses/bungalows and beautiful furnished and unfurnished high rise apartment complexes which are available close to business and schools. The most preferred expatriate areas are at Indiranagar, Defence Colony, Koramangala, off M.G. Road, Whitefield and Sadashiv Nagar, largely due to the spacious size of the houses and plots of land and close proximity to the commercial districts of the city. These areas are located near shopping areas, hospitals and movie theatres.

Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?

Expatriates generally rent their homes in India.

Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into leased housing? If so, how much is common?

The real estate norm in the city is generally to pay 10 months' rent as a security deposit and the monthly rents to be paid by a specific date of every month. In some cases upfront rental for a year is also paid. Maintenance, electricity, water bills, utilities are paid separately.

Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?

Generally, utilities are a separate cost and mostly paid to different service providers individually.

Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood?

If a family is considering living in an independent house, it would be advisable to arrange for a security guard from one of the reputed local companies during the day and night.

I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?

The electric current for Bangalore is 220 volts. The electrical Hertz (Hz) is 50 hertz of power. You need use an appropriate electrical converter if you with to use of any electrical and electronic appliances that are manufactured in USA (110V). Below are examples of the types of plugs that are used in India. Type C plug - Round pin attachment plug NOTE: Type C plugs can also be used with E and F and some L receptacles. This type of plug is very common in most "universal" adaptor sets. (Though the diagram shows a circular plug, quite often Type C plugs have a rectangular form factor, as in the photo above.) Type D plug - Round pins with ground All free-standing houses do not come with appliance. For an independent house please note that you would need a generator (at least 1 guard.)

Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?

The process of searching for suitable accommodation could take time and is sometimes frustrating depending on what your preferences are. Ideally, the process should be started a few weeks before the start of the assignment. A preview trip arranged through Crown Bangalore is highly recommended so that you are aware what is available and what you may expect. It is a common practice that owners clean, paint and repair after the deal is finalized. If you opt to take a long-term lease (two to four years), you can request what you wish to be worked on. However, this practice often results in delays in moving into the house. Only the landlord does any structural changes and the occupant or the signing corporate could do no changes. There are a few things one must do before taking possession of the premises. Thorough cleaning is a must. It would also be advisable to have the entire premises treated by the pest control company before moving in. All electrical points and appliances should be checked for functionality. Gas is supplied in cylinders or bottles through a neighbourhood dealer; it is advisable that you keep one extra cylinder on hand as backup. One should be watchful that there are no drains around the house, as they can create a problem with mosquitoes. Also it is suggested to fix the meshed nets on the window panel to keep mosquitoes and other insects away without any interruption to the airflow. A pictorial inventory done by Crown during the move in is a safer way to have it filed in the Move in documents.

Useful Links

Temporary Accommodation Options: http://www.palmmeadowsclub.com http://www.halcyoncondos.com http://www.oakwoodasiahq.com/news/PPBangalore.php http://www.mercurehomestead.com

 

What types of schools do most expats in your city choose for their children?

International schools are the most popular choice among the local expatriate community.

What are some examples of these schools?

There are several options for International schooling in Bangalore, which provide both boarding and day boarder facilities. The more prominent ones are: - The International School, Bangalore (TISB): (IGCSE and IB curriculum) - Indus International School (IB curriculum) - Canadian International School of India (Ontario, IGCSE, IB curriculum) - Mallya Aditi International School (IGCSE and ICSE) - Bangalore International School (ICSE, IGCSE) - Stonehill International School (IB) These schools are popular with both Indian parents, Returning Indians, Non- Resident Indian and expatriates, and have a fair mix of local and expat students. An average of 50% of the students in these schools comprises of the international students. They facilitate efficiently to support the extra curricular activities within the school premises or arrange to take their students to such facilities for extra-curricular activities.

Is there a lot of competition for spots in local schools?

Yes. Most schools have a process for the admissions, which include the application, Admission test, Interview with parents and the student, review of 2-3 years of past academic record and recommendation. This process may vary depending on schools.

Are pre-schools also widely available (for children approx. 2 to 5 years old)?

For younger children there are some private playschools and, several of these are run according to the Montessori method. These schools vary greatly in both fees and quality. One can also get nannies (ayaahs) to care for young children.

How are most kids transported to and from school?

Most of the schools have their own school buses. These are usually air-conditioned and a comfortable mode of transport for schools. Otherwise, you can take your kids to school in your own car.

When does the typical school year start and end?

International schools typically have their sessions from August to May/June.

Is there anything else I should know about local schools?

It is not very easy to get admitted to good schools as they have a long waiting period. It is recommended to decide on the school in which your child has to be admitted at the earliest and finalize the admissions early as switching the decisions and taking longer time to decide on the schools may result in losing the seat.

Useful Links

http://www.bangaloreinternationalschool.com http://www.tisb.org http://www.indusschool.com http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mallya_Aditi_International_School http://www.cisb.org.in http://www.stonehillinternationalschool.org

 

IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Please contact your closest embassy or consulate for confirmation.