What is the local currency?
The Indian monetary unit is the Rupee (Rs. or INR), which can be divided into 100 Paise.
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What denominations does it come in?
Notes come in 2000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5 Rupees denominations. Coins come in denominations of Rupees 10, 5, 2, 1 
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What is the best way to exchange currency?
The best way is to go through a licensed money changer. Most banks and larger hotels offer this facility.
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What are commonly-used forms of payment for everyday purchases (such as groceries)?
Cash is the most commonly-used form of payment for everyday purchases. You will find that smaller establishments only accept cash, so it is recommended that one carries a small sum of cash at all times. Digital money transfers using major UPI apps are accepted widely. Payments can also be directly made by scanning QR code or by transfers from payments banks and wallets.
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Will I be able to use my credit card around town? If not, list when I’ll need cash.
Most businesses do accept major credit cards, debit cards and cash. However, some businesses will add the bank charge to the bill if paid by credit card. Smaller shops, markets and some other business types only accept cash, so it is recommended that one carries a small sum of cash at all times.
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By what method are bills (such as rent and utilities) paid?
Bills can be paid by cheques, but many utilities (like telephone or electricity bills) can also be paid online.
Additionally, you can set up an electronic collection system that allows the billing company to directly debit your bank account for the said amount.
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What are the requirements for opening a bank account? At what stage of the settling-in process should I open it?
Crown Hyderabad recommends the QA22 account for expatriates, as it offers greater flexibility.
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 own 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
  • Copy of valid passport and employment visa (E-type)
Most banks insist on an average quarterly balance of INR 10,000.
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Will foreign residents be able to find banking services in their native languages?
You will be able to find banking material in English or Hindi only.
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Are there any restrictions on services for those who are new to your country?
The only exception would be regarding an overseas money transfer. Transfers up to 80% of your annual salary abroad are allowed. However, only with an employment visa can you open a bank account that would make international transfers possible.
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What are typical banking hours?
Typically, banks are open from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on weekdays, and 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday. Sunday is the weekly holiday and banks are closed. Banks remain closed on the second and fourth Saturday of a month. National holidays and state holidays are observed by most of the banks in India. (Please check with the specific banks for their declared holidays.)
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Are automatic teller machines (ATMs) available around the clock?
Yes, ATM machines are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and can be found throughout the city.
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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. 100,000 is 1 lakh and 10,000,000 is one crore.
Be aware: If you are handed a grubby note, insist on having it exchanged for a newer one, since others might refuse to accept it from you, and counterfeit bills are common. Have a supply of small bills as most stores don't carry sufficient change.
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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. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact your local Crown representative.