Tens of thousands of refugees attempt to meet their basic needs and make a meaningful life for themselves in Delhi, despite India not having a domestic or international legal framework codifying their protection. This paper examines the experiences of three of those refugee groups – Sikh and Christian Afghans, and Rohingya Muslims – as they navigate this city and strive for a level of autonomy and self-reliance. Using qualitative research methods – semi-structured interviews and ethnographic observations – we explored how refugee groups have attempted to make ends meet and realise their aspirations, and the extent to which these needs and ambitions are supported by local, national, and international aid organisations. As we engaged in discussions around daily routine and individual, familial, and community responsibilities and aspirations, the theme of ‘self-reliance’ became an important one. From the perspective of the refugees: how to strive for self-reliance and individual/community autonomy in the face of limited socio-economic opportunities? For aid organisations: how to support refugees to enhance or gain the skills, opportunities, and linkages they need to meet their needs and realise their ambitions? Our findings showed a range of challenges and opportunities.