A Non-Resident Indian (NRI) is an Indian citizen who lives outside India for employment, business, vocation or any purpose that indicates an uncertain duration of stay abroad. This also includes individuals posted overseas by the Central or State Government, public sector undertakings or international organisations such as the United Nations. Foreign citizens of Indian origin are generally treated at par with NRIs for property-related matters.

A Person of Indian Origin (PIO) refers to a foreign citizen (excluding citizens of Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, China, Iran, Nepal and Bhutan) who has held an Indian passport at any time, or whose father or paternal grandfather was a citizen of India under the Constitution of India or the Citizenship Act, 1955.

Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) is an immigration status that allows foreign citizens of Indian origin to live and work in India indefinitely, subject to applicable regulations.

Yes. NRIs can purchase and sell residential and commercial properties in India as per the guidelines set by the Reserve Bank of India and other applicable regulations.

Yes. Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) can buy and sell residential and commercial properties in India, subject to applicable government regulations.

There is no limit on the number of residential or commercial properties an NRI can purchase in India. However, NRIs are not permitted to buy agricultural land, plantation property or farmhouses.

Yes. NRIs can purchase commercial properties in India under the general permission granted by the Reserve Bank of India. The purchase must be funded through:
• Inward remittance in foreign exchange via recognised banking channels, or
• Funds held in NRE or FCNR accounts maintained with banks in India
In certain cases, buyers may be required to submit relevant declarations and documentation as per regulatory guidelines.

NRIs and foreign citizens of Indian origin generally do not require prior approval to purchase residential or commercial property in India, provided the purchase complies with existing regulations.

NRIs and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) may need to complete certain regulatory formalities after purchasing property. These may include submitting prescribed declarations, transaction documents and proof of payment through authorised banking channels, in accordance with applicable guidelines.

While requirements may vary, commonly requested documents include:
• PAN card (Permanent Account Number)
• Passport (for NRIs)
• OCI or PIO card, if applicable
• Passport-size photographs
• Valid address proof
Additional documents may be required depending on the transaction.

While requirements may vary, commonly requested documents include:
• PAN card (Permanent Account Number)
• Passport (for NRIs)
• OCI or PIO card, if applicable
• Passport-size photographs
• Valid address proof
Additional documents may be required depending on the transaction.

NRIs and PIOs are generally not allowed to purchase:
• Agricultural land
• Plantation property
• Farmhouses
Such properties can usually be acquired only through inheritance or with specific approval from regulatory authorities.

Yes. NRIs can acquire or transfer residential property in India as a gift to or from a relative who is an Indian citizen or a person of Indian origin, subject to applicable regulations.

NRIs can apply for home loans in India, though documentation requirements differ from resident applicants. Lenders typically require additional documents to verify identity, employment and income.
A Power of Attorney (POA) is often recommended, allowing a trusted representative in India to complete formalities on behalf of the NRI.

NRIs can apply for home loans in India, though documentation requirements differ from resident applicants. Lenders typically require additional documents to verify identity, employment and income.
A Power of Attorney (POA) is often recommended, allowing a trusted representative in India to complete formalities on behalf of the NRI.
Commonly required documents include:
• Passport and valid visa
• Employment contract or appointment letter
• Salary certificate or income proof
• Bank statements (generally for the last six months)
• Overseas employment or business details
Specific documentation requirements may vary across banks.

Purchasing a property does not attract income tax. However, income generated from the property is taxable in India. This may include:
• Rental income from a leased property
• Deemed annual value of property (if applicable)
• Capital gains arising from the sale of property
Tax liability depends on prevailing tax laws.

Yes. Both short-term and long-term capital gains from the sale of property in India are taxable for NRIs as per applicable regulations.

Under most Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements, income from immovable property is taxed in the country where the property is located.
This means income from selling or renting property in India is generally taxed in India, while tax relief in the country of residence may be available as per the relevant treaty.