Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) who earn income in India, from property rent, capital gains, fixed deposits, or business interests, are required to file Indian income tax returns on that income, even though their global income is not taxable in India. Understanding residential status, DTAA (Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement) benefits, and applicable TDS rates is key to accurate and beneficial tax filing for NRIs.
When must an NRI file: when income earned or accrued in India exceeds the basic exemption limit, when TDS has been deducted and a refund is due, on capital gains from sale of property or investments in India, or to claim benefits under the DTAA between India and the country of residence.
We compile all Indian income sources, apply DTAA provisions and TDS credits, and file within the applicable due date, generally July 31st of the assessment year.
Answers to the questions we hear most often about NRI tax filing.
No. Only income earned or accrued in India is taxable for NRIs. Global income is not taxed in India.
The Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement prevents the same income from being taxed twice, once in India and once in the country of residence, through tax credits or exemptions.
Often yes, especially to claim a refund if the TDS deducted exceeds the actual tax liability, or if income exceeds the basic exemption limit.
Generally July 31st of the assessment year for most NRIs (unless extended or audit provisions apply), same as resident individuals without business income.
Digitax Consultancy was founded on April 1, 2011, by Vishwa Jeet Dwivedi and Amit Kumar Jha, two visionaries with a passion for simplifying financial services.