Maintaining an Indian mobile number while living abroad may seem unnecessary, but it offers significant benefits that outweigh the minor inconvenience of managing two SIMs.

1. Essential for Government & Financial Services

Many Indian services, including Aadhaar, banking, tax filings, and investments, require OTP authentication sent to an Indian mobile number. Without one, accessing these services can become difficult.

2. Hassle-Free Communication

An Indian SIM ensures seamless connectivity with:

• Banks & Government Portals for transaction alerts and OTPs.
• Family, Friends & Businesses without expensive roaming fees.
• Real Estate Agents & Service Providers who may only contact local numbers.

3. Avoid High International Roaming Costs

Using an Indian SIM while visiting India prevents costly international roaming fees. Instead of relying on temporary SIMs, a long-term plan keeps you connected affordably.

4. Affordable Plans for NRIs

Many telecom providers offer low-cost annual plans that allow you to keep your number active without frequent recharges and eSIM option.

You heard it right, NRIs can have Adhar with Indian address. Check from UIDAI website.

Can an NRI apply for Aadhaar?Yes. An NRI (whether minor or adult) with a valid Indian Passport can apply for Aadhaar from any Aadhaar Enrolment Centre.In case of NRIs the residential condition of 182 days is not mandatory.

Aadhaar is increasingly becoming a key identity proof in India and is essential for accessing several government and private sector services. While it is not mandatory for NRIs, having an Aadhaar card can make financial transactions, property dealings, and access to services like SIM card registration and bank account verification much smoother.

Many institutions require Aadhaar for identity verification, and its absence could lead to inconvenience. If you’re planning an extended stay or managing assets in India, obtaining Aadhaar can significantly ease administrative processes and provide a seamless experience.

Filing an Income Tax Return (ITR) in India is not mandatory if your Indian income is below ₹2.5 lakh (old regime) or ₹3 lakh (new regime). However, filing ITR every year still offers several advantages.

1. Proof of Income & Financial Stability
Even if you owe no taxes, a filed ITR serves as proof of income, which can be helpful for:

• Loan and credit card applications in India.
• Visa applications, where many countries require tax returns for financial verification.
• Maintaining a financial record, which is useful for future investments.

2. Compliance & Legal Benefits

If you have investments, property, or financial transactions in India, filing ITR ensures:

• Compliance with Indian tax laws, avoiding potential legal issues.
• Smooth property transactions, as past ITRs may be reviewed during sales.

3. Claiming TDS Refunds & Lower Deductions

• If TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) is deducted from your income, filing an ITR allows you to claim a refund.
• Regular ITR filing helps reduce or eliminate higher TDS deductions, especially when selling property, as tax authorities check past tax filings before approving lower TDS rates.

4. Claiming Foreign Tax Credit (DTAA Benefits)

• If you are an NRI paying taxes in your country of residence, an ITR helps claim Foreign Tax Credit (FTC) under DTAA (Double Tax Avoidance Agreement), ensuring you are not taxed twice on the same income.

Final Thoughts

Even when not required, filing an ITR is a smart financial habit. It keeps your financial records updated, prevents tax complications, and ensures maximum tax benefits in both India and your country of residence.