Relocating internationally is a major decision, whether driven by career ambitions, cultural ties, or a desire for new experiences. For many individuals and families in New Zealand, India offers a compelling blend of opportunity and familiarity.
This guide highlights why more New Zealanders are choosing India and how to plan a smooth relocation.
Why New Zealand Expats are Moving to India
India’s evolving economy, vibrant culture, and expanding opportunities are attracting a growing number of New Zealand expats. According to the International Monetary Fund, India is set to remain one of the fastest-growing major economies, with a projected growth rate of over 6% in 2024. For those seeking global mobility, India offers a dynamic environment that balances modern development with deep-rooted traditions.
For individuals considering moving overseas, India’s widespread use of English, particularly in business and education, makes integration easier compared to many other international destinations.
Reasons Indian Migrants in NZ Choose to Return Home
For many Indians who migrated to New Zealand, the desire to return to India stems from a mix of emotional, cultural, and practical reasons. Some of the most common factors include:
- Family Reunification: Staying close to ageing parents or extended family members remains a strong motivator.
- Career Growth: India’s dynamic economy is creating fresh professional and entrepreneurial opportunities. According to a report by McKinsey & Company, India could generate up to 90 million new non-farm jobs by 2030, making it an attractive prospect for returning professionals.
- Cultural Reconnection: Returning to familiar traditions, languages, and festivals offers emotional fulfilment.
- Children’s Education: Many Indian migrants prefer their children to study in India’s leading institutions, particularly in fields such as engineering, medicine, and business.
- Cost of Living: Relocating to India can offer a more affordable lifestyle compared to cities like Auckland or Wellington.
Top Indian Cities Attracting Returning Kiwis
Choosing the right city is critical to ensuring a successful relocation. The most popular cities among expats and returning residents from New Zealand include:
- Mumbai: Known as the financial capital of India, Mumbai is a thriving hub that offers abundant opportunities in banking, entertainment, and multinational corporate sectors.
- New Delhi: As the nation’s bustling capital, New Delhi provides a wealth of career prospects across government, media, commerce, and diplomatic services.
- Bangalore: Often referred to as the “Silicon Valley of India,” Bangalore is ideal for tech professionals and entrepreneurs, with its flourishing start-up ecosystem and innovation hubs.
- Chennai: Chennai is a leading centre for the automotive, technology, and healthcare industries, while also boasting a vibrant and historically rich arts scene.
- Hyderabad: Hyderabad has built a reputation as a booming IT powerhouse, offering modern infrastructure, global company headquarters, and comparatively affordable living costs.
- Kolkata: As a cultural and intellectual capital, Kolkata provides growing opportunities in education, publishing, creative arts, and commerce.
- Pune: Pune is a dynamic city popular with young professionals, combining a robust education network with a thriving IT, manufacturing, and service sector economy.
- Coimbatore: Coimbatore stands out as a rapidly expanding industrial city, noted for its excellence in textiles, engineering, and manufacturing industries.
Each city offers its own unique character and advantages, making it essential to carefully research living and working conditions before making the move.
Popular Regions Indian Expats Return To
Punjab: A Blend of Tradition and Progress
Punjab remains a top choice for Indian expats returning from New Zealand, valued for its vibrant culture, strong family ties, and growing economic opportunities. Key cities attracting returnees include:
- Ludhiana: A major industrial city known for textile manufacturing and engineering, offering strong prospects for professionals and entrepreneurs.
- Amritsar: Home to the iconic Golden Temple, Amritsar combines spiritual significance with a thriving trade and tourism economy.
Gujarat: A Hub of Entrepreneurial Spirit
Gujarat’s robust economy and entrepreneurial environment make it another popular destination for returning expats. Leading cities include:
- Ahmedabad: Celebrated for its business-friendly environment and modern amenities, Ahmedabad appeals to both professionals and families.
- Surat: One of the fastest-growing cities globally, Surat is renowned for its diamond and textile industries, drawing those seeking dynamic professional opportunities.
Planning Your International Move with Confidence
An international relocation can seem daunting, but careful preparation can make the transition seamless. Here’s how you can plan effectively:
- Create a Relocation Checklist: Detail everything from visa requirements to banking arrangements to avoid last-minute challenges.
- Secure a Reputable International Moving Company: Partner with an expert in moving overseas to manage logistics smoothly.
- Understand Customs and Shipping Regulations: Preparing the necessary documentation can prevent shipping delays and reduce costs.
- Coordinate Your Move Early: Early planning ensures you have access to the best relocation dates, shipping routes, and accommodation options.
- Explore Home Search Options in India: Engage relocation specialists who can assist with destination settling services.
- Organise Immigration Support: Ensure that all immigration paperwork and processes are handled correctly to avoid legal difficulties.
Make Your Move to India Seamless with Crown Relocations
Crown Relocations is dedicated to supporting every aspect of your journey to India. Whether you are seeking assistance with paperwork, customs advice, or complete move management, their expert team is ready to help. If you need assistance preparing your transition, explore their resources for moving and relocations to access moving guides, checklists, and planning tools.
Crown also provides a wide range of support beyond standard moving, including storage, pet relocation, and visa assistance, which you can discover under the more services offered by Crown. Their extensive experience in handling international relocations ensures that your move to India will be smooth, secure, and stress-free.
