Where do the most NRIs live? Top 7 countries with largest Indian overseas population
NRI Day 2026: The UN World Migration Report released in 2024 indicated that India is the origin of the largest number of international migrants in the world, touching nearly 18 million. Let's have a glance at the top 7 nations where Indian citizens reside the most.
1. United States
The United States hosts the largest overseas Indian population at about 5.4 million. This includes 2,077,158 NRIs and 3,331,904 Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs). Indians in the US are spread across technology, healthcare, academia and business, making the community one of the most influential Indian diasporas globally, as per the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India.
2. United Arab Emirates
The UAE is home to nearly 3.6 million overseas Indians, driven overwhelmingly by 3,554,274 NRIs, with just 14,574 PIOs. Indians form the largest expatriate group in the country, playing a key role in construction, services, trade and professional sectors across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.
3. Malaysia
Malaysia has an overseas Indian population of around 2.9 million, largely consisting of 2,751,000 PIOs, alongside 163,127 NRIs. The Indian presence dates back generations, with deep roots in politics, education and business, particularly among the Tamil community.
4. Canada
Canada hosts approximately 2.88 million overseas Indians, including 1,016,274 NRIs and 1,859,680 PIOs. The Indian community has grown rapidly due to immigration and education pathways, with strong representation in technology, healthcare, entrepreneurship and public life.
5. Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has about 2.46 million overseas Indians, dominated by 2,460,603 NRIs, while PIO numbers remain minimal at 2,906. Indians form the backbone of the Kingdom’s workforce, especially in construction, engineering, healthcare and domestic services.
6. Myanmar
Myanmar accounts for nearly 2 million overseas Indians, mainly 2,000,000 PIOs, with just 2,660 NRIs. The Indian community has historical roots dating back to the colonial era and continues to play a role in trade, small businesses and local commerce.
7. United Kingdom
The UK has around 1.86 million overseas Indians, comprising 369,000 NRIs and 1,495,318 PIOs. Indians are among the most established and influential ethnic groups in Britain, active in politics, finance, healthcare, education and entrepreneurship.
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