Documentation Needed for Registration As Residents
This document is issued by the Foreigners Regional Registration Office, Bangalore.
Kindly click on the PDF document listed above to consult a comprehensive list of documents required to get you established as residents in Bangalore.
Banking and Currency Exchange
‘Rupees’ is the Indian currency 
. 1 Rupee equals to 100 paise (pronounced Pi-saa). The currency is circulated in the denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 rupees. There are also coins in the denomination of 1, 2, 5 and 10 rupees coins. The paise include 25 and 50 paise coins (though these aren’t in popular circulation anymore). While large stores, malls and shopping outlets will easily accept a large denomination like a 500 or 1000 rupees notes, smaller shops in Bangalore will usually demand the exact change. When travelling in public transportation like a bus or rickshaw, do carry the exact change. Outlets like petrol stations and banks could break your big note into smaller denominations.
Opening a bank account in India is a simple process that however, can take its own sweet time to accomplish. To open an account, you will need atleast two copies of the following documentation-
- Passport with valid visa
- Resident’s permit
- Passport sized photographs (2 nos.)
- Completed account registration form (obtain this from the bank)
- Initial deposit (this amount varies from bank to bank)
- Optional- Proof of employment with your Company in India
- Optional- Copy of House Lease
Popular modes of Transportation in Bangalore
Bus
Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) runs comfortable public transportation buses that connect all locations across Bangalore. The bus services are very prompt and numerous, thus you can afford to ignore an overcrowded bus and wait for the next one. The front section is usually reserved for women and the conductors are pretty strict about this rule. BMTC also operates AC Volvo and Mercedes buses to select locations across the city- offering a more comfortable and quicker ride (though slightly on the expensive side).
Auto Rickshaws
These number by the thousands in Bangalore and are a quick, zero fuss transport medium from point A to B. However, Bangalorean Rickshaws are notorious for over-charging, rash driving and very argumentative drivers, though exceptions exist for this rule. Ensure that the Rickshaw driver runs the meter the moment you get on-board or makes his charges clear to you. Rickshaws charge extra (double the meter, a costly fixed amount) after about 8pm and can be easily found everywhere. Take care that the rickshaw sports the current rates and the driver’s permit prominently and official numbers wherein you can report any problems that you might face.
Taxis
Bangalore does not have colour-coded taxis which can be hailed on the streets. Most private taxis are white in colour and can either be found at private stands or hotels. You can also call some of the larger taxi services to make a reservation. Ensure that you book ahead of time to avoid problems as there are a limited number of taxis available, particularly at peak times. Taxis are ideal for travelling between the Airport and the place of your stay.
Metro
The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. (BMRCL) operates the Bangalore Metro Rail system. Currently the system is in its nascent stage but is rapidly gathering a sizable fan following. Efficient, cost effective, time saving and safe- some of the terms that describe the Bangalore Metro. Also, the thrill of seeing the city course by from a good vantage point as you cruze on the rails is not one to be missed.
Driver Services– If you own a car, but need a driver on short notice, hiring a driver for the stipulated duration is a good idea. Rates for such drivers for hire are very reasonable. Hire with enough buffer time to avoid last minute surprises. The following services should be helpful,
- EZi Drive (T- 080 4240 0000, www.ezidrive.in )
- Goodman Driver Service (M-95350 08833)