Non-resident Indians can generally purchase residential property in India, but the process involves documentation, banking and representation questions that resident buyers never face. Plan these before you shortlist a project, not after you like one.
Get the basics confirmed by a professional
Rules on eligibility, repatriation of sale proceeds, taxation and remittance are set by regulation and change over time. Treat this guide as an orientation and confirm your specific position with a chartered accountant and a lawyer who handle NRI property transactions regularly.
Documents to prepare early
Assembling these in advance is what usually shortens an NRI transaction:
- Valid passport and visa or residence documentation
- PAN card for tax and registration purposes
- Overseas address proof and recent photographs
- NRE, NRO or FCNR banking arrangements for payments
- A properly executed and attested Power of Attorney if you cannot be present
Power of attorney: get the drafting right
If someone will sign on your behalf, the Power of Attorney must be drafted for the exact acts you intend to authorise and executed, attested and adjudicated according to the applicable procedure. A generic template is a common source of delay at registration — have it drafted specifically for the transaction.
Due diligence you should not delegate entirely
Verify the project's registration on the Gujarat RERA portal, obtain the title report and sanctioned plans, read the draft Agreement for Sale in full, and confirm the milestone-linked payment schedule. Ask for a live video walkthrough of the actual tower and floor if you cannot travel, and request written confirmation of anything discussed on a call.
Verify before you rely on it
Regulatory requirements, banking procedures and tax treatment differ by individual circumstance and change over time. Confirm current requirements with qualified professionals before transferring funds.