Should You Leave India Due to High Taxes
Deciding to leave India primarily because of high taxes is a complex decision that depends on your income level, lifestyle expectations, and what you value in terms of public services, quality of life, and career opportunities. Here’s a detailed breakdown based on the latest information:
India’s Current Tax Structure
- As of FY 2025-26, India’s new tax regime has progressive slabs, with the highest rate of 30% applying to annual incomes above ₹24 lakh (₹2.4 million.
- For incomes up to ₹12 lakh, thanks to increased rebates and standard deductions, effective tax liability can be zero for many salaried individual.
- The tax burden on the middle class (below ₹20 lakh) has reduced over the past decade, while those earning above ₹50 lakh now shoulder a significantly higher share of total tax collection.
Who Should Consider Moving?
- High Net Worth Individuals (HNWIs): The data shows that the tax burden has shifted to the super-rich. Individuals earning above ₹50 lakh annually are paying a much larger share of taxes and are the primary group considering migration for tax reason.
- Upper-Middle Class: For those earning between ₹10–20 lakh, the average tax liability has actually decreased in recent years, making the tax argument for migration less compelling for this group.
- Entrepreneurs and Innovators: Some startup founders and high-earning professionals cite not just high taxes, but also factors like lack of innovation, infrastructure, and quality of life as reasons to move.
Preferred Countries for Lower Taxes
Country | Tax on Personal Income | Other Advantages |
---|
UAE | 0% | High quality of life, business-friendly |
Singapore | 24% max (local income) | No tax on foreign income |
Australia | Progressive, but offers quality of life and education | |
Portugal | 0% on foreign income, 25% on local | Attractive for remote workers |
Switzerland | Progressive, but offers stability and privacy | |
Cyprus | Favourable for expats, low on foreign income | |
Italy | Special incentives in southern regions (as low as 7%) | |
Thailand | Lower than India, popular among digital nomads | |
USA | Progressive, but offers opportunity and education | |
- The UAE is especially popular due to its zero income tax policy and only a 5% VAT on goods and services.
- Other destinations like Australia, Singapore, Portugal, and Switzerland are chosen for a mix of tax benefits, political stability, quality of life, and educational opportunities.
Key Considerations Beyond Taxes
- Quality of Life: Many who leave India cite not just taxes but also infrastructure, healthcare, education, and overall quality of life.
- Cost of Living: Some low-tax countries have high living costs (e.g., Switzerland, Singapore), which can offset tax savings.
- Legal and Financial Planning: Changing tax residency is complex. You must meet the residency requirements and may face exit taxes or global income taxation depending on the destination.
- Family and Social Ties: Migration is a major life decision with implications beyond finances.
Summary
- Leaving India solely due to high taxes is most relevant for those earning above ₹50 lakh annually, who face the highest marginal tax rates and contribute the majority of personal income tax collections.
- Preferred destinations include the UAE, Australia, Singapore, Portugal, and Switzerland, chosen for their low or zero personal income tax, high quality of life, and business opportunities.
- For those in the middle-income brackets (₹10–20 lakh), the tax burden has eased, making migration for tax reasons less compelling.
Ultimately, the decision should be based on a holistic assessment of your financial goals, career prospects, family needs, and desired lifestyle-not just tax rates.