After You Arrive

Bank Account and SIM Card in India

Foreign students open an NRO account (a bank account for foreigners living in India) at an approved bank and give its details to the FRRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office). Buy an Indian SIM card in your first days. e-FRRO, the FRRO website, sends a one-time code (OTP) to it.

Example: Indian bank

Example: NRO account

Example card. Your own account comes from the bank you choose in India.

Banking

Banking for International Students

International students in India use an NRO account.

Important

Open the account at an approved bank in India. Give the details to your FRRO.

Step by Step

Opening Your Bank Account

The account for foreign students is the NRO account.

Choose an approved bank

Open an NRO account at a bank approved in India.

Give the details to your FRRO

Give your bank account details to the FRRO when you register.

Tips

Ask your university's international office which nearby bank serves foreign students.

Staying Connected

Indian SIM Card

You need an Indian phone number for e-FRRO.

How to Get Connected

Two quick steps.

Buy a SIM card

Carry your passport and visa to the shop.

Use it for e-FRRO

Give this number on your e-FRRO account to get OTPs and news.

Tips

Buy an Indian SIM card in your first days.
e-FRRO needs a mobile number in India to send you OTPs.

Practical Advice

Tips for Money and Phone

Simple habits for your first months in India.

Money Habits

Keep some cash
Keep a little Indian rupee (INR) cash for daily use. Carry only a little.
Change money safely
Change money only at shops that have a licence to do it.

Staying in Touch