India's credit-scoring system is run primarily by TransUnion CIBIL, with scores ranging 300-900 (750+ is considered good, improving loan terms and interest rates). Foreign credit history does not transfer to India — a strong US/UK/UAE credit rating carries no weight with Indian lenders, and someone with no prior Indian credit activity will show 'NH' (No History) or a score of -1. NRIs can build and check a CIBIL score using an Indian mobile number and valid ID, and one free CIBIL report/score is available per year. Keeping an active credit card linked to an NRE/NRO account, used periodically for local purchases or bill payments, keeps the CIBIL file 'live' and the score actively calculated each month.
CIBIL scores range 300-900; 750+ is generally considered good for securing favorable loan terms.
Foreign credit history does not transfer to India — a new credit file must be built locally regardless of credit standing abroad.
No prior Indian credit activity shows as 'NH' (No History) or a score of -1, not a default low score.
One free CIBIL report and score is available per year; checking requires an Indian mobile number and valid ID.
Keeping at least one active credit card linked to an NRE/NRO account, used a couple of times a year, keeps the CIBIL file live with a monthly-updated score.
Required Documents
Indian mobile number
Valid Indian ID proof (PAN, passport, or Aadhaar where applicable)
Common Mistakes
Assuming a strong overseas credit score will be recognized by Indian banks — it will not; a fresh CIBIL history must be established.
Letting an Indian credit file go dormant after returning abroad, which can cause the CIBIL score to lapse to 'No History' again.