Can I inherit property in India with OCI?

Asked by: Dr. Gerardo Tillman  |  Last update: August 8, 2023
Score: 4.7/5 (66 votes)

An NRI or OCI can inherit any immovable property (such as land or buildings) in India, whether it is residential or commercial. They can even inherit agricultural land or a farmhouse, which they are otherwise not entitled to acquire by way of purchase.

Can OCI holders inherit property in India?

OCI can also acquire property in the form of inheritance. NRI/OCI can acquire immovable property in India, (other than agricultural land/farmhouse/ plantation property), by way of gift from OCI who is relative u/s 2(77) of Companies Act 2013.

Can US citizen with OCI sell property in India?

So, coming to the main question – whether OCI Cardholder can buy, hold, transfer or sell immovable property in India without prior approval of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)? Yes. OCI Cardholder is at parity with Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) towards property transactions.

Can a US citizen of Indian origin own property in India?

If you're a US citizen and hold an OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) card, you'll be able to buy most types of property in India even if you're not living there. Key exceptions include agricultural land and properties, and plantations, which can't be bought by non-residents.

What are the rights of OCI card holders in India?

Following benefits will be allowed to an OCI: (a) Multi-purpose, multiple entry, lifelong visa for visiting India. (b) Exemption from registration with local police authority for any length of stay in India.

What is the best way to sell Inherited Property? | NRI & Inherited Property FAQ

38 related questions found

Can OCI card holder live permanently in India?

Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) is a form of permanent residency available to people of Indian origin and their spouses which allows them to live and work in India indefinitely. Despite its name, OCI status is not citizenship and does not grant the right to vote in Indian elections or hold public office.

What OCI can't do in India?

The OCI is not entitled to vote, be a member of Legislative Assembly or Legislative Council or Parliament, cannot hold constitutional posts such as President, Vice President, Judge of Supreme Court or High Court etc. and he/she cannot normally hold employment in the Government.

Can an American inherit property in India?

Will: One of the ways that NRIs can inherit properties in India is through a Will. NRIs themselves can transfer the property to other NRIs by making through a Will. However, in the said circumstance, the permission of RBI will be required.

Can we sell property in India and bring money to us?

Prior to transferring funds from India to the US you'll need to complete Form 15CB, and your bank will ask you to provide proof of the source of the money, such as a copy of the property sale agreement.

Can OCI buy property in India without PAN card?

NRIs are required to present their Indian passport. If you have an OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) card or a PIO (Persons of Indian Origin) card, you can purchase real estate in India even if you have a foreign passport. You will have to produce the PAN card as it is required in real estate transactions.

How long can US citizen with OCI stay in India?

An OCI card holder can stay in India for life time. It is important for an OCI card holder to ensure that they hold valid passports from their home country. In case the passport needs to be renewed then the OCI card holders have to get it renewed visiting their home country embassy in India.

Can OCI card holder open bank account in India?

Further, an OCI can open all types of accounts allowed to a Resident customer. A joint account with Resident Indian (RI) who is a close relative can also be opened subject to following conditions: Mode of operation permitted is 'Former (NRI) or Survivor' only.

Can US citizens have Aadhar card in India?

YES. An NRI (whether minor or adult) with a valid Indian Passport can apply for Aadhaar from any Aadhaar Kendra. If your passport has the name of your spouse, then it can be used as Proof of Address for them.

Can OCI transfer money to India?

If you are an NRI or an OCI, you also need a declaration to the effect that the total remittances being made by you have not exceeded the limit under the foreign exchange laws. As an NRI/OCI, there will be no tax applicable on your remittance since the remittance is not being made under LRS.

Is inherited property taxable in India?

Taxation on inherited assets

As per the Income Tax Act of 1961, no tax is levied on the inherited assets, whether movable or immovable, as such. However, the tax will be levied if the new owner decides to sell the property.

Can OCI give power of attorney in India?

Steps an NRI or OCI/PIO can follow to send PoA:

Provided that the granted authority is notarized and apostilled, the emigrants can entrust their certain powers. They should remember that the mandatory certificate attestation services must be carried out by the Indian Consulate or Embassy.

How do I transfer inheritance from India to USA?

You need to write the inheritance to the IRS and submit Form 3520, with your annual tax return details. According to U.S. regulations, if you are gaining or making a profit from the inherited property, including capital gains, dividends, or interests, you will need to pay tax on such inherited income.

How much money can I transfer from US to India tax free?

There is no limit on sending money from USA to India. But, there is a limit of US $14,000 per person per year for tax free transactions. Any amount sent above US $14,000 per person per year, the sender is responsible for paying the taxes.

How I can sell my property in India while I am in USA?

If you are a Non-Resident Indian, you can sell the property to a Resident Indian without restrictions. If the buyer is a Non-Resident Indian or a Person of Indian Origin (POI), you may need the approval of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). You are not allowed to sell the property to a foreigner.

Is property sold in India taxable in USA?

India and the US have a double taxation treaty in place. That means you shouldn't need to pay the same taxes twice when you sell your property in India. However, you'll likely still need to report the sale of your property to the IRS even if no tax is due.

Does India recognize US wills?

Wills made in other jurisdiction are not automatically enforceable in India. Under the Act, an ancillary probate can be granted to authenticate a foreign will.

How to get power of attorney to sell property in India from USA?

You will have to make a power of attorney in favor of a trusted individual who can do the sale on your behalf. To execute a valid POA, the document must be notarized by a local Notary Public, legalized by the relevant Indian Embassy/Consulate, and then registered in India with the local land registration authorities.

What is the new OCI rule?

It allows them to live and work in India indefinitely but does not grant citizenship or voting rights. In 2021, new rules were introduced, requiring OCI cardholders to seek permission for certain activities. Violating the rules can result in penalties and even blacklisting.

What are the benefits of OCI in India?

The OCI Card facilitates visa-free travel to India, rights of residency and participation in business and educational activities in the country if you are of Indian origin. The spouse of an Indian-origin person is also eligible for OCI Card. However, you will need to surrender your Indian passport during the process.