How Many Americans Live in India? A Real Look at Expats

Ask any American who’s tried living in India, and you’ll quickly realize it’s not just about spicy food and yoga retreats. The number of Americans officially living in India is bigger than you might guess—something around 60,000 to 70,000, according to estimates from the US Embassy. But that’s just the start. The real story is how these folks settle in, build their lives, and deal with the culture shocks and curve balls India throws their way.

Most didn’t come just for the adventure. Job transfers, family roots, or remote working deals pulled them in. Some wanted their kids to experience Indian schools—like I did with Aarav—or were lured by the Indian startup buzz. So, if you’re thinking about making this move (or you’re just nosy), there’s a whole lot more to unpack here than just a number.

• How Many Americans Are in India in 2025?
• Where Do Most Americans Live in India?
• Why Do Americans Move to India?
• What’s Daily Life Like for American Expats?
• Legal and Visa Stuff You Should Know
• Tips Straight from the American Community

How Many Americans Are in India in 2025?

The big question: how many Americans in India are there right now? In 2025, the latest numbers from the US Embassy in New Delhi put the count between 65,000 and 70,000. That’s not just tourists flying in for a quick Taj Mahal selfie—these are American citizens actually living, working, studying, or retired in India.

Getting an exact figure is a bit tricky. Some stay long-term, others move back and forth between countries, and a bunch of Americans don’t register with the Embassy at all. So, official records only tell part of the story. According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, about 18,000 to 20,000 US citizens in India hold long-term visas at any given time—think work, study, and business visas.

Here’s a quick glance at the main categories Americans fall into when they’re living in India:

• Corporate transferees: These are expats sent by big multinationals. IT and finance jobs are common.
• Entrepreneurs and freelancers: Some bring their startups or remote gigs to India for the buzz and cost savings.
• Students: Quite a few Americans enroll in Indian universities, especially for cheaper degrees or study abroad experiences.
• NGO and charity workers: Loads of Americans work or volunteer in education, health, and social sectors.
• Family reunification: A fair number come back to connect with their roots or join their Indian spouses and extended families.

You may be surprised, but there’s been steady growth in Americans relocating to India since the pandemic. Working remotely for US companies now makes it easier, and some folks say they get a better quality of life for less money in Indian metros than back in the States. Here’s a breakdown from 2025 estimates:

The short answer? There are more American expats in India now than ever before—and the community is just getting bigger. If you’re thinking about making the shift, you definitely won’t be alone.

Where Do Most Americans Live in India?

If you think all Americans in India are hanging out in ashrams, think again. Most settle in big cities with easy access to international schools, major businesses, and flight connections. These hubs offer familiar comforts—think Starbucks and Western supermarkets—mixed with the wild charm of India.

The top spots? No surprise here:

• Bangalore: The tech capital. A hotspot for IT jobs and startups. Loads of American expats find jobs here or come to work for global companies with Indian branches. It’s also popular for families due to international schools and expat-friendly neighborhoods like Whitefield and Indiranagar.
• Mumbai: The finance heart of India. American business folks land here for corporate gigs. Many also come for the Bollywood pull or media jobs. South Mumbai and Bandra are favorites for their mix of expat life and Indian buzz.
• Delhi NCR (New Delhi, Gurgaon, Noida): Loads of embassies, global companies, and NGOs stick their flag here. Gurgaon especially is packed with gated communities, malls, and schools that feel like they could be anywhere in the US.
• Pune: Kind of an underdog, but tons of American families prefer Pune for its slower pace, strong international school scene, and IT jobs. The weather is a bonus.
• Hyderabad: Another big tech hub, thanks to US giants like Microsoft and Google setting up huge campuses. Good for anyone wanting modern comforts without Mumbai-level traffic headaches.

Outside the big five, some US citizens in India end up in smaller towns—think spiritual seekers in Rishikesh, writers in Goa, or retirees enjoying Kerala’s backwaters.

If you’re moving for work or family, look at neighborhoods with other American expats first. You’ll find support networks, easy access to things like American food (my son Aarav still swears by his peanut butter fix), and schools that can help with the transition.

Why Do Americans Move to India?

There’s no single answer here—people come with all sorts of goals. One of the biggest reasons is work. A lot of Americans in India get transferred by big companies like Google or Amazon, since India’s tech scene is exploding. Some move for jobs in banking, education, or to launch a startup—thanks to low costs and a massive, young workforce.

Family ties are a huge pull too. Many US citizens either married someone from India or want their kids to be closer to grandparents, cousins, and uncles. This was definitely part of why we made the jump.

Another reason: education. Some Americans want their kids to experience bilingual schools or strong academics in international schools like the American Embassy School in Delhi or the American School of Bombay.

• Remote work makes moving way easier. Since the pandemic, people can keep their US job but enjoy a lower cost of living and be closer to extended families in India.
• Some Americans are seeking personal growth—immersing in a totally new culture, learning languages, and picking up life skills in a country that’s always changing.
• Cost of living is a big motivator. Everything from groceries to private schools can be a lot cheaper than in the US—though cities like Mumbai and Bangalore aren’t what you’d call "cheap" anymore.

There are Americans out here running yoga retreats, working at NGOs, or helping international companies build new offices in India. The community is all over the map, literally and professionally.

The mix of career, family, and a taste for adventure keeps that steady trickle of US citizens in India going, year after year.

What’s Daily Life Like for American Expats?

So, what’s it really like being an American in India? For starters, the routine gets a big shake-up. Forget about Target runs and mega-marts—most American expats end up shopping at local markets for fresh veggies or ordering online from stores like BigBasket. Grocery aisles pack Indian brands you probably haven’t seen before. Even breakfast looks different; you’ll find yourself swapping out pancakes for dosas or fresh fruit toasts.

Most Americans in India end up in big cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad. These places have international schools (like the American Embassy School or Dhirubhai Ambani International), modern hospitals, and a few pockets that feel a bit like home. Getting around can be a battle if you’re not used to the traffic chaos—apps like Ola and Uber are lifesavers, but driving your own car is a wild adventure.

Staying connected with home isn’t hard nowadays thanks to cheap data plans and WhatsApp calls. Still, the time zone difference becomes a thing, especially if you’re working remotely for a US company. Sunday NFL games? Yep, you’ll be watching on Monday mornings with your coffee.

Here’s a little reality check with housing. Renting an apartment in Indian metros ranges from $500 to $2,000 a month for something decent in a safe area. Many expats hire a cook or housekeeper—labor costs are way lower than back in the States. And eating out? Even at fancier restaurants, the bill is often less than what you’d pay at a casual diner in the US.

Culture shocks? Oh yeah: the bureaucracy is exhausting, customer service can make you pull your hair out, and power cuts aren’t rare. But after a few months, most expats figure out shortcuts—like never showing up on time to a party (seriously, Indian Standard Time is real) and always having cash on hand just in case the card machine dies.

• Tip: Join local expat groups on Facebook or Meetup to share advice or find playdates for kids.
• Don’t be shy about haggling at markets—it’s expected.
• If you’re missing home, some bakeries and shops import favorite American snacks (but be ready to pay imported prices for them).

Compared to back home, life is a mashup of the old and new. You’ll get used to the sounds of street vendors, festivals popping up randomly, and neighbors dropping in for chai without warning. For many expat families, the biggest win is the sense of community—you find friendships quickly, even across language barriers.

Legal and Visa Stuff You Should Know

If you’re an American in India, there’s no way around it—visas and paperwork become your new reality. Whether you’re moving for work, family, or just to try something new, you’ll want to pick the right visa from the get-go. India’s not like some countries where you can just show up and stay months on a tourist visa. They expect you to be clear about why you’re here.

The main types of visas Americans use are:

• Employment Visa (E-visa): Got a job at an Indian company or school? You’ll need this. The job has to pay at least $25,000 (around 20 lakh INR) a year, unless you’re a language teacher, volunteer, or working for certain NGOs.
• X Visa (Entry Visa): If you’re married to an Indian citizen or you’ve got family living here, this one’s for you. You can’t work on it, but you can stay longer term.
• Business Visa: Planning to start a company or handle business deals? This is what you’ll apply for. It doesn’t allow actual employment in an Indian firm, just business activity.
• Student Visa: If you (or your kids) are headed to college or school in India, this covers it. Most big Indian universities are used to American applicants.
• Tourist Visa: This one’s short term—good for visits, not for living.

Now, don't expect anything fast. Indian bureaucracy moves at its own speed. Getting an employment visa or X visa can take a month or two. You'll need proof of your job, accommodation, Indian sponsor details, and a load of supporting paperwork. Renewals can be just as slow, so plan ahead—set reminders for your expiry dates and organize your scans in the cloud.

When you land in India, registration is the next step. If you’ll be staying longer than 180 days, you must register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) within 14 days of arrival. If you miss this window, there are fines. Trust me—it’s way easier to just push through the lines and get it done.

Here's a quick look at common visa types and their typical duration for American expats:

One last heads-up: India requires Americans to keep copies of their passport, visa, and FRRO registration handy at all times, especially if you’re in rented housing or using hotels. Police checks are rare but do happen, especially in big cities.

For US citizens in India planning to stay long term, you’re not eligible for permanent residency the way you might be in some other countries. Some folks with Indian roots apply for Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) status—which is almost as good, but not quite the same as citizenship. If you qualify, getting that OCI card will make your life way easier.

Tips Straight from the American Community

Nothing beats real advice from people who’ve actually made the move. Americans living in India are usually pretty open about sharing what works—and what absolutely doesn’t. Here’s what comes up a lot when you ask around in expat Facebook groups or meet folks through the American Embassy’s events.

• Build Your Crew Fast: The first few weeks can feel way more intense than you expect. Don’t try to power through alone. Finding expat meetups or local interest clubs helps a ton. Bangalore, Mumbai, and Delhi all have solid American expat networks and even WhatsApp groups that post about everything from potlucks to lost passports.
• Get Smart About Visas: Visa rules change often—sometimes with little warning. Check the latest with trusted sources. Several expats swear by using local consultants, especially for business or employment visas, since they’re used to handling tricky paperwork.
• Understand What’s "Expensive": Everyday living is way cheaper for most Americans in India, but imported stuff—like cheddar cheese, real maple syrup, Kraft mac and cheese—costs a fortune. Many people just learn to do without certain comforts, but consider packing some favorites to ease the transition.
• Be Patient with Everything: Setting up a bank account, getting a SIM card, or even getting a plumber to show up—a lot of stuff moves slow compared to the U.S. Some folks keep copies of every document handy, just in case.
• Health Insurance Is a Must: Even if you’re young and healthy, accidents happen. Group health insurance isn’t automatic here. Good American expats always research local-private plans so they’re not stuck in a bad spot.
• Embrace the Local Life: The happiest Americans in India are usually the ones who take up something local. Cricket, Bollywood movies, street food tours—you name it. Aarav joined a cricket club and suddenly every Saturday morning has a new vibe.

For those who like hard data, here’s a peek at what fellow American expats report about challenges and perks after living in India for a year:

If you remember nothing else, just know that most Americans in India say things get way easier after you give it that first awkward six months. Everyone starts out overwhelmed, but sticking with it pays off fast. And yeah—having peanut butter in your suitcase doesn’t hurt, either.