Living in New Delhi: the ultimate expat guide

New Delhi serves as India's administrative capital and a major business hub, attracting professionals across diverse industries. The city hosts numerous multinational headquarters, government agencies, embassies, international organizations, and a growing startup ecosystem.

Key Industries and Job Market

The services sector dominates employment in Delhi-NCR, particularly IT and business process outsourcing, financial services, media and communications, and hospitality. The adjacent Gurgaon (Gurugram) area houses major tech companies and corporate offices. Government and diplomatic positions are concentrated in central Delhi. The e-commerce and logistics sectors have experienced significant growth, with companies like Amazon, Flipkart, and Delhivery creating substantial employment opportunities.

Work Permits and Visas

Foreign nationals require an Employment Visa (E Visa) to work legally in India. Your employer must be a registered Indian entity and sponsor your application. The minimum annual salary threshold is ₹16.25 lakh (approximately USD 19,500). Initial visas are granted for one year and can be extended up to five years. Upon arrival, employees staying over 180 days must register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) within 14 days.

Sources: Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), Ministry of Labour & Employment

New Delhi hosts some of India's most prestigious universities and research institutions, attracting students from over 45 countries. The city offers excellent opportunities for international students seeking quality education at competitive costs.

Top Universities

The University of Delhi (DU), established in 1922, is ranked among India's top five universities (NIRF 2025) and 328th globally (QS 2025). It comprises over 90 affiliated colleges and offers programs across arts, sciences, commerce, and professional studies. The Foreign Students' Registry (FSR) handles international admissions, with 10% supernumerary seats reserved for foreign students.

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) is renowned for social sciences, international relations, and research programs. Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT-D) ranks among the world's top engineering institutions. Jamia Millia Islamia offers diverse programs with strong international partnerships.

Admission and Fees

International students apply through the Study in India portal. Requirements include passport, academic transcripts, an equivalence certificate from the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), and a Student Visa (S-1). Annual tuition for international students ranges from USD 1,000 to USD 5,000 depending on the program and institution. The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) offers scholarships covering tuition, accommodation, and monthly stipends.

Sources: University of Delhi, Study in India Portal

Delhi offers numerous schooling options for expat families, from prestigious international schools following British, American, and IB curricula to excellent local private schools. Most expat families choose international schools to ensure curriculum continuity and facilitate future transitions.

International Schools

The American Embassy School (AES) in Chanakyapuri offers an American curriculum with IB Diploma option for Pre-K through Grade 12. With students from over 50 nationalities, it provides world-class facilities including state-of-the-art science labs, sports complexes, and performing arts centers. Annual tuition ranges from USD 23,000 to USD 33,000 plus a one-time registration fee of USD 16,500.

The British School in Chanakyapuri follows the National Curriculum of England, IGCSE, and IB Diploma Programme, serving 1,200+ students from 66 nationalities. Annual fees range from ₹11 lakh to ₹17 lakh (USD 13,000-20,000). Other notable options include Pathways World School, DPS International, and The Ardee School offering Cambridge curriculum.

Enrollment and Requirements

Apply 6-12 months ahead as waiting lists are common. Required documents typically include birth certificate, passport copies, previous school records, and immunization records. Most schools conduct assessments for grade placement. The academic year runs April to March, with admissions typically opening in October-November for the following year.

Sources: American Embassy School, The British School

Delhi's housing market offers diverse options from modern high-rise apartments to spacious independent houses (bungalows) and gated farmhouse communities. Most expats settle in South Delhi neighborhoods, which offer proximity to embassies, international schools, upscale shopping, and healthcare facilities.

Popular Expat Neighborhoods

Vasant Vihar and Chanakyapuri (the diplomatic enclave) are top choices, offering tree-lined streets, proximity to embassies and international schools, and excellent security. Greater Kailash, Defence Colony, and Panchsheel Park provide upscale living with good markets and restaurants. Vasant Kunj offers modern apartments near the airport and shopping malls at relatively moderate rents. Golf Links and Jor Bagh represent ultra-premium options favored by diplomats and senior executives.

Rental Costs and Process

Lease agreements typically run 11 months (for tax purposes) with options for renewal. Expect to pay 2-3 months' rent as security deposit plus one month's rent as brokerage fee. Most landlords require employer references or bank guarantees. Utilities (electricity, water, gas) are typically paid separately and can range from ₹3,000 to ₹15,000 monthly depending on usage and season.

Sources: NoBroker, Local real estate market data 2025

New Delhi offers an extraordinary range of cultural, recreational, and social experiences. From ancient monuments and world-class museums to vibrant nightlife and green spaces, the city caters to diverse interests throughout the year.

Historical Sites and Museums

UNESCO World Heritage sites include the magnificent Red Fort, the towering Qutub Minar, and the serene Humayun's Tomb. The National Museum houses over 200,000 artifacts spanning 5,000 years of Indian civilization. The National Gallery of Modern Art showcases contemporary Indian artists. Don't miss Swaminarayan Akshardham, a stunning modern Hindu temple complex, and Raj Ghat, the memorial to Mahatma Gandhi.

Parks and Recreation

Lodhi Gardens offers 90 acres of landscaped greenery dotted with 15th-century tombs—perfect for morning jogs and picnics. Nehru Park in Chanakyapuri hosts cultural events and weekend concerts. The Garden of Five Senses provides themed gardens and art installations across 20 acres. For wildlife, visit Deer Park in Hauz Khas or take day trips to Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary.

Dining and Nightlife

Delhi's food scene spans legendary street food in Chandni Chowk (try the paranthas and kebabs) to fine dining at Indian Accent, consistently ranked among Asia's best restaurants. Vibrant nightlife centers around Hauz Khas Village, Connaught Place, and Mehrauli, with rooftop bars, live music venues, and international clubs. Khan Market offers upscale cafes and boutique shopping.

Sources: Delhi Tourism, TripAdvisor

Daily life in New Delhi blends modern conveniences with traditional Indian culture. While the city presents challenges including traffic congestion and seasonal air pollution, most expats adapt quickly and appreciate the city's energy, hospitality, and affordability.

Transportation

The Delhi Metro is the backbone of public transport, spanning 392 km with 288 stations across 12 color-coded lines. It's clean, air-conditioned, efficient, and connects to neighboring Gurgaon, Noida, and Ghaziabad. Fares range from ₹10 to ₹60 per journey, with monthly passes available. The Airport Express Line links Indira Gandhi International Airport to central Delhi in 20 minutes.

Most expats rely on app-based taxis (Uber and Ola) for door-to-door convenience at reasonable rates. Auto-rickshaws are ubiquitous for shorter trips. Many expat families employ full-time drivers, which costs approximately ₹15,000-25,000 monthly plus fuel.

Lifestyle and Culture

English is widely spoken in professional settings, upscale establishments, and expat neighborhoods. Shopping options range from traditional markets like Khan Market and Chandni Chowk to modern malls including Select Citywalk, DLF Emporio, and Ambience Mall. Major international brands and local boutiques cater to diverse tastes. Domestic help is affordable and customary—many expat households employ cooks, cleaners, and nannies.

Sources: Delhi Metro Rail Corporation

New Delhi offers a significantly lower cost of living compared to major Western cities, typically 70-80% less than London or New York. While premium expat lifestyles (international schools, upscale housing, imported goods) increase expenses, day-to-day living remains remarkably affordable.

Monthly Budget for a Single Person

The following estimates reflect a comfortable expat lifestyle in central Delhi neighborhoods.

Monthly Budget for a Family of Four

Sources: Numbeo, Local market surveys 2025