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Navigating Property Sales in India: Essential Steps for NRIs

NRI Selling Property in India: Understanding Bank Account and Tax Compliance

NRI Selling Property in India: Understanding Bank Account and Tax Compliance

This guide simplifies the essential steps for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) selling property in India, focusing on opening an NRO (Non-Resident Ordinary) account and obtaining the required Certificate of Tax Compliance (Form 15CA/15CB) to ensure smooth property transactions while adhering to Reserve Bank of India (RBI) regulations.

Key Takeaways:

1. Understanding RBI Mandates: All income from India must pass through an NRO account before being repatriated to ensure tax compliance and monitor fund flows.


2. Opening an NRO Account: NRIs must open an NRO account, providing essential documents such as a scrutinized copy of the passport and visa, proof of overseas residency, and a PAN card.


3. Consulting with CA Arun Tiwari: Expert advice from CA Arun Tiwari, with extensive experience in NRI financial matters, is crucial for navigating financial regulations.


4. Role of Form 15CA/15CB: NRIs must obtain the Certificate of Tax Compliance (Form 15CA/15CB) from a chartered accountant before transferring funds from the NRO account.


5. Transfer Limits and Additional Documentation: NRIs should be aware of the RBI’s transfer limits and the supplementary documentation required for amounts exceeding the limit.


6. Summarising the Process: NRIs should prioritize opening an NRO account, obtaining Form 15CA/15CB, and adhering to RBI regulations on fund transfers.


Synopsis:


Understanding the Required Bank Account and Tax Compliance

Navigating the complex world of real estate transactions in India as a Non-Resident Indian (NRI) can be challenging due to strict financial regulations set by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). This guide simplifies the essential steps for a smooth property sale, focusing on opening an NRO (Non-Resident Ordinary) account and obtaining the required Certificate of Tax Compliance (Form 15CA/15CB).


Understanding RBI Mandates

The RBI mandates that all income from India must pass through an NRO account before being repatriated. This ensures tax compliance and monitors fund flows, preventing potential financial issues.


Opening an NRO Account

NRIs must first open an NRO account, serving as the channel for funds from property sales in India. Required documents include a scrutinized copy of the passport and visa, proof of overseas residency, and a PAN card. These documents are essential for validating the legitimacy of repatriation funds.


Consulting with CA Arun Tiwari

Expert advice is crucial for navigating financial regulations. CA Arun Tiwari, with extensive experience in NRI financial matters, provides invaluable assistance.


Role of Form 15CA/15CB

Before transferring funds from the NRO account, NRIs must obtain the Certificate of Tax Compliance. This involves acquiring Form 15CA/15CB from a chartered accountant. The 15CB form certifies tax obligations, while the NRI lodges the 15CA form, declaring remittance and completing the transaction.


Transfer Limits and Additional Documentation

NRIs should be aware of the RBI’s transfer limits, currently set at USD 1 million annually. Amounts exceeding this require supplementary documentation submitted to the RBI, including a detailed explanation of the transfer purpose and accompanying documents for regulatory compliance.


Summarizing the Process

For NRIs navigating property sales in India, prioritize the following:


  • Open an NRO account for seamless sale proceeds.
  • Obtain Form 15CA/15CB from a chartered accountant for tax compliance.
  • Adhere to RBI regulations on fund transfers, with comprehensive documentation for amounts over USD 1 million.


Conclusion

Executing a well-organized and planned approach is crucial for NRIs selling property in India. By understanding and following the stringent mandates set by the RBI, opening an NRO account, seeking guidance from CA Arun Tiwari, and securing necessary tax compliance certificates, NRIs can navigate the transaction process expertly, avoiding legal pitfalls and unnecessary delays.


About the Author: CA Arun Tiwari, a Chartered Accountant and former EY employee, is the Chief Consultant of NRI Desk and Influencer Desk at AKT Associates. He focuses on providing specialized consultancy services for NRIs and creating educational content to enhance awareness within the NRI community.


FAQ

Q1: What are the essential steps for NRIs selling property in India?

A1: NRIs should prioritize opening an NRO account, obtaining Form 15CA/15CB from a chartered accountant for tax compliance, and adhering to RBI regulations on fund transfers.


Q2: What role does CA Arun Tiwari play in NRI property transactions?

A2: CA Arun Tiwari provides expert advice and assistance, leveraging extensive experience in NRI financial matters to navigate financial regulations effectively.