Moving with children: your checklist

Children feel a move the most. Good timing, the right school and a little preparation make the first year much easier.

Updated 29 October 2026 · 13 items

A year before

Choose a board and shortlist schoolsCBSE, ICSE or IB.
Time the move around Classes 9 and 11Joining directly in Class 10 or 12 is generally not allowed.
Apply for admissionAdmissions usually open between October and January for the next year.
Talk to the children about the move earlyVisit India together if you can, and let them help choose.

Months before

Passports and OCI cards for each childOCI and documents; children born in the Gulf need Indian passports.
Report cards, leaving letters and transfer certificatesAttested if the new school asks.
Vaccination recordsSchools ask for them; catch up on any vaccines that are due.
Start the second languageHindi or the state language is often compulsory; a tutor or app before the move helps a lot.
Find activities they love in the new citySport, music or clubs: an easy way to make friends.

After you arrive

Keep familiar routinesMeals, bedtimes and weekend habits help children settle.
Arrange extra help if neededFor the second language, or for subjects taught differently.
Help them stay in touch with old friendsVideo calls ease the change, especially for teenagers.
Give it a yearMost children settle within a few months to a year; talk to the school if they're struggling.

Questions

When is the best time to move back to India with children?

Before Class 9 or Class 11, and ideally at the start of the Indian school year in April or June. Young children usually adapt quickly whatever the timing.

Will my child have to learn Hindi or another Indian language?

Usually yes. Most schools teach Hindi or the state language, and some states require their language in every school. Ask each school how it supports children from abroad.

Are my ticks saved?

Yes, in this browser on this device. Nothing is sent to us. Clearing your browser data, or opening the page on another device, starts a fresh list.

Will your money last after the move?

The free retirement planner works it out year by year, with Indian inflation, your children's costs and a stress test.

Open the retirement planner

General information for planning, not financial, tax or legal advice. Rules change: check anything important with the official source.