What are the income tax rates in India?

In India, the personal income tax ranges from 5% – 30%. Corporations pay a 25.2% corporate tax rate. Capital gains are taxed at 20%. VAT is 18%.

Is India crypto-friendly?

India has standard tax treatment for cryptocurrencies (crypto score 1/5). Gains are generally taxed as capital gains or ordinary income.

What is the cost of living in India?

The cost of living in India is very low (index 26) (reference: 100 = New York City). Safety index is 4.8/10. Average internet speed is 55 Mbps. Compared to Western Europe or the US, India offers excellent value for expats.

Is India a good destination for digital nomads?

India does not have a specific digital nomad visa, though foreigners can explore residency options or tourist stays. Average internet speed is 55 Mbps — suitable for remote work.

What is healthcare like in India?

Healthcare quality in India is acceptable but limited (score 5.5/10). International private health insurance is recommended.

Is India a good place for remote work?

India is a viable destination for remote workers. Advantages include: 55 Mbps internet, low cost of living.

India — Tax Guide, Residency & Cost of Living for Expats

Asia · South AsiaUpdated 2026

Tax Score

40/100Worldwide

Tax Data

Income Tax5% – 30%

Corporate Tax25.2%

Capital Gains20%

VAT/GST18%

Wealth TaxNo

Inheritance TaxNo

Residency & Visas

Golden VisaNo

Digital Nomad VisaNo

Cost of Living & Quality of Life

Cost of Living Index26

Safety4.8/10

Internet55 Mbps

Healthcare5.5/10

Gasoline$1.15/L

Tax Overview

India uses a worldwide tax system with moderate rates. While residents are taxed on global income, rates are competitive compared to many developed nations.

Personal Income Tax

Personal income tax in India ranges from 5% – 30% progressively.

Corporate & Capital Gains

The corporate tax rate is 25.2%. Capital gains are taxed at 20%.

Indirect Taxes & Wealth

VAT/GST is 18%, moderate by international standards. There is no wealth tax. There is no inheritance tax.

Crypto & Digital Assets

India has an unfavorable crypto tax regime (score 1/5). Rates are high and/or regulations are restrictive.

Compare with other countries

Residency Guide

Relocating to India is possible but with limited options. Visa options are more limited, but residency is achievable through standard pathways.

Visa Options

India does not currently offer a digital nomad visa or golden visa. Foreigners can explore work, investment, or family reunification visas.

Practical Considerations

As a non-LATAM destination, applicants should consider potential language barriers and cultural differences. Working with a local immigration attorney and verifying apostille/legalization requirements for documents is recommended.

Also consider: United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait

Lifestyle

India offers a low cost of living, enabling a comfortable lifestyle on a moderate budget.

Cost of Living

With an index of 26 (reference: 100 = New York City), India is significantly cheaper than major world cities. An expat can live comfortably at a fraction of what it would cost in the US or Western Europe.

Safety & Infrastructure

With a safety score of 4.8/10, caution is recommended, especially outside tourist and expat areas. Internet speed of 55 Mbps — adequate for remote work.

Healthcare

With a score of 5.5/10, the healthcare system has limitations. International private health insurance is highly recommended for expats.

Quality of Life

India has a Human Development Index of 0.644 (classification: medium). It is important to consider differences in service quality depending on location.

Data: 2026 · Source: tax_foundation,pwc,manual

Pros & Cons

Pros

No wealth tax
No inheritance tax
Very low cost of living (index 26)

Cons

Worldwide tax system — global income taxed
Moderate safety — caution advised (4.8/10)
Unfavorable crypto regime (1/5)
Private health insurance recommended (5.5/10)
Physical presence requirement (183+ days/year)

Frequently Asked Questions

India operates under a worldwide tax system: taxes residents on worldwide income, regardless of where it is earned. The top personal income tax rate is 30%.