South Asia
Nomad Score
7/10
Avg Monthly Cost
$1,000
Internet Speed
45 Mbps
Safety
Moderate
India taxes residents on worldwide income. Non-residents pay on Indian-source income only. Residency triggers at 182 days. New tax regime offers lower rates without deductions.
Income Tax
5-30% (new regime)
Capital Gains
12.5-20%
VAT / Sales Tax
5-28% (GST)
Tax Year
april-march
Special Tax Regimes
tourist
Short-term electronic tourist visa for quick visits, valid for 30 days from arrival with double entry. Ideal for short trips and initial exploration of India.
tourist
Multiple entry tourist visa valid for 1 year from grant date. Each visit limited to 90 days (180 days for US, UK, Canada, Japan nationals). Popular choice for digital nomads and repeat visitors.
tourist
Long-term multiple entry tourist visa valid for 5 years. Each visit limited to 90 days (180 days for US, UK, Canada, Japan nationals). Best value for frequent travelers to India.
business
Electronic business visa for attending meetings, conferences, trade fairs, or conducting business activities. Valid for 1 year with multiple entries and up to 180 days continuous stay. More suitable for digital nomads than tourist visa.
special
Electronic visa for medical treatment in India including Ayurvedic treatment. Valid for 60 days with triple entry. Can be extended up to 6 months on case-by-case basis.
work
For foreign nationals employed by Indian companies. Requires employer sponsorship and minimum salary of USD 25,000 per year. Initially valid for 1 year, extendable up to 5 years.
education
For foreign nationals pursuing full-time academic programs at recognized Indian institutions. Valid for duration of course or up to 5 years, whichever is less. Includes yoga, dance, music, and Buddhist studies.
business
Electronic visa for attending conferences, seminars, and workshops organized by government ministries, state governments, or PSUs. Single entry for up to 30 days.
tourist
Traditional paper visa obtained through Indian Embassy or Consulate. Available in various durations up to 10 years for US and Japanese nationals. Useful when e-visa is not available for your nationality.
$1,000/month
Average for a comfortable nomad lifestyle
Private hospitals in major cities (Apollo, Fortis, Max) are good and very affordable. Rural healthcare is limited. Medical tourism destination.
PAN card and Aadhaar (for residents) needed. NRE/NRO accounts for non-residents. UPI payment system is world-leading.
Varies widely by region. Major cities are generally safe. Solo female travelers should take precautions. Scams targeting tourists exist. Goa and Kerala are safest.