Everything an NRI needs to know before transferring money and signing on the dotted line — from FEMA compliance to power of attorney.
India remains the top destination for NRI real-estate investment. In 2024, NRI remittances into Indian property touched $14 billion. But the process is different from resident purchases.
**What NRIs can buy:** Residential and commercial property freely. Agricultural land, plantation property and farmhouses require RBI approval.
**FEMA compliance:** All payments must flow through NRE or NRO accounts. Never pay in foreign currency directly from abroad — it creates a compliance nightmare.
**Power of Attorney (PoA):** Most NRIs execute a PoA to a trusted family member or lawyer in India to handle registrations and handover. The PoA must be notarised and apostilled in the country of residence.
**Loan options:** NRIs can take home loans in India up to 80% of property value. Most PSU and private banks offer NRI home loans at rates between 8.5–9.5% as of 2025.
**Tax implications:** TDS of 20% (with surcharge) is deducted at source on capital gains for NRIs. File an Indian tax return to claim refunds.
**Our recommendation:** Always engage a local PropertyExpo-verified agent who has experience with NRI transactions. The paperwork is manageable — but only with the right guide.
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