Retired NRI are advised to come back to their motherland for a host of reasons, according to Varun Singh, MD, XIPHIAS Immigration. Pravasi Samwad reproduces the column Singh recently wrote for The Financial Express.
For many Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), retirement is a significant juncture prompting reflection on life choices, achievements, and aspirations. While some NRIs choose to return to their homeland and rediscover their roots, others prefer exploring new horizons and settling in foreign countries. What are the factors that influence this decision, and what are the benefits and challenges of opting for foreign citizenship after retirement? Let’s examine the trends, motivations, and implications of NRIs acquiring foreign citizenship after retirement, and how they can make the most of their golden years.
According to a report by the United Nations, India has the largest diaspora in the world, with 18 million people living outside the country as of 2022. Many of these NRIs have spent decades working and living in foreign countries, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom, and have acquired permanent residency or citizenship in these countries.
While the exact number of NRIs who opt for foreign citizenship after retirement is not available, some indicators suggest a growing trend. For instance, according to the Ministry of External Affairs, the number of Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards issued to NRIs who have acquired foreign citizenship increased from 1.7 million in 2015 to 3.9 million in 2022, a growth of 129%.
Returning to their roots after retirement is a significant decision for NRIs, involving various factors, benefits, and challenges. While some NRIs may choose to explore new horizons abroad, the growing trend of returning to their roots indicates a profound desire to reconnect with one’s cultural identity and heritage. Whatever the choice, NRIs can make the most of their retirement by planning, staying connected, and living purposefully in their homeland
NRIs choose to return to their roots after retirement for various reasons, shaped by their personal and professional circumstances, preferences, and goals. Some common motivations include:
Cultural Connection: Many NRIs opt to return to their roots after retirement to reconnect with their cultural heritage, traditions, and familial bonds.
Sense of Belonging: The desire for a sense of belonging and identity draws NRIs back to their homeland, where they can contribute to the society and economy and partake in civic rights and duties.
Family Ties: Strong family ties, with spouses, children, grandchildren, and relatives residing in India, influence NRIs to return to their roots to stay close to loved ones and support their endeavours.
Retirement Planning: Returning NRIs can plan their retirement according to their preferences, unburdened by the norms and expectations of adopted countries.
Cultural Enrichment and Heritage Immersion: Opting to return to their roots allows NRIs to immerse themselves in the cultural fabric of their homeland. This engagement goes beyond mere observation, offering a firsthand experience of cultural heritage, traditions, and practices. NRIs can actively participate in local festivals, ceremonies, and community events, fostering a deeper connection with their roots.
Active Community Engagement and Contribution: Being physically present in their homeland provides NRIs with the opportunity to actively engage with local communities. Armed with diverse skills and experiences gained abroad, returning NRIs can play a pivotal role in community development projects, social initiatives, and educational programs.
Enhanced Familial Support and Unity: Proximity to family members becomes a crucial advantage for NRIs returning to their roots. The emotional support derived from being close to spouses, children, grandchildren, and extended relatives fosters a strong sense of familial unity. Shared experiences, celebrations, and day-to-day interactions contribute to building lasting bonds, creating a supportive network that can be especially beneficial during the challenges of retirement.
Returning to their roots after retirement is a significant decision for NRIs, involving various factors, benefits, and challenges. While some NRIs may choose to explore new horizons abroad, the growing trend of returning to their roots indicates a profound desire to reconnect with one’s cultural identity and heritage. Whatever the choice, NRIs can make the most of their retirement by planning, staying connected, and living purposefully in their homeland.
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