Living in Chennai as an expatriate

Visa requirements

Expats wishing to work in Chennai require a work visa, which can be obtained from the Indian embassy or consulate in their respective countries. The visa application requires various documents such as a passport, medical certificate, and proof of employment in India. It's advisable to apply for the visa well in advance, as the process may take several weeks.

Language resources

English is widely spoken in Chennai, particularly in business and professional settings. Learning Tamil, the regional language, can be helpful in interacting with the local population. The American Center, British Council, and Chennai L nau-Nau (English learning) offer language courses for expats.

Housing

Accommodation in Chennai varies widely based on the type and location of the property. A room in a shared house costs around INR 3,000 - INR 5,000 (USD 40 - USD 65), while a one-bedroom apartment can start from INR 7,000 (USD 95) per month in areas like Perungudi, OMR, and Velachery. For a two-bedroom apartment, the average cost ranges from INR 11,000 (USD 145) to INR 14,000 (USD 190) per month, depending on the location. For expats looking to rent a three-plus bedroom house, the cost is between INR 18,000 (USD 240) and INR 30,000 (USD 400) per month.

Groceries

The cost of groceries in Chennai ranges from INR 1,500 (USD 20) to INR 2,500 (USD 34) per month, depending on the type and quantity of items bought. Common grocery items like rice, dal, vegetables, and fruits are readily available in the city's supermarkets and markets. Some popular supermarkets in Chennai include: Nilgiris, Nature's Basket, More, and HyperCity.

Transportation

Chennai has an extensive network of buses, trains, and taxis, making it easy to commute within the city. The Chengalpet ADI Railway station (Maduravoyal) and the Egmore Railway Station are the two main railway hubs. Auto-rickshaws (three-wheelers) and taxis are readily available, but it's advisable to negotiate the fare before getting into the vehicle. Monthly passes for the MTC buses cost around INR 660 (USD 9) for adults and INR 330 (USD 4.5) for senior citizens and students.

Chennai enjoys a tropical wet and dry climate, with average temperatures ranging from 21°C (70°F) in January to 33°C (91°F) in May. The summer season (March to June) is scorching hot, while the winter season (December to February) is relatively mild. The city's wet season, which lasts from June to September, brings heavy rainfall and humidity. Despite this, Chennai's pleasant winter months make it an excellent destination for expats seeking a respite from the colder northern climates.

Chennai is a hub for employment opportunities in various sectors, thanks to its strategic location and infrastructure. The IT industry is a significant contributor to the city's economy, with major MNCs like IBM, DELL, and Google establishing their presence here. Healthcare and biotech are also expanding rapidly in Chennai, offering ample job opportunities for medical professionals. The automotive industry, which is one of the most established in Chennai, has multinational giants like Ford, BMW, and Renault Nissan operating from here.

Chennai is known for its comprehensive healthcare infrastructure, which includes both public and private healthcare facilities. Apollo Hospitals, one of the largest multispecialty hospitals in India, is headquartered in Chennai, along with several other renowned hospitals like Fortis andItalian Hospital. The Sri Ramachandra Institute for Higher Education and Research (SRIT) is a leading medical center in Chennai known for its high-quality medical care and research facilities. The city has a large number of primary care clinics, dental clinics, and specialist hospitals catering to various medical conditions.

Chennai has an efficient public transportation system, which includes the Chennai Metro Rail, suburban trains, buses, and taxis. The Chennai Metro Rail, which was inaugurated in 2015, connects Chennai's central areas with satellite towns. MTC (Metropolitan Transport Corporation) operates buses on 288 routes to various parts of the city, while the suburban railway network serves the western suburbs. Taxis are readily available at railway stations, airports, and bus stops.

Chennai is generally safe for expats, but it's prudent to exercise caution and avoid flashing your valuables in public places. It's recommended to avoid deserted areas, particularly at night. Petty thefts and pickpocketing are common in crowded areas, so keep an eye on your belongings, particularly in markets like Burlington, Pondy Bazaar, and Satyamurthi. The coastal area of Chennai can be affected by cyclones and heavy rains during the monsoon season, so it's advisable to stay indoors during extreme weather conditions.