Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions for NRIs in USA, Canada and UK. Tax, property, banking, and compliance.
General – Who is an NRI?
Who is considered an NRI?
Under the Indian Income Tax Act, a person is a Non-Resident Indian (NRI) if they are not a "resident" of India. Generally, you are an NRI if you are in India for less than 182 days in a financial year, or less than 60 days in that year and 365 days in the preceding four years. NRIs living in USA, Canada, UK for work or residence typically qualify.
Does NRIClub serve only USA, Canada and UK?
We currently focus on the largest NRI communities in the USA, Canada and UK. You can register with one of these countries to access our platform. We may expand to other regions in the future.
Tax – USA, Canada, UK
Do I need to file taxes in India if I live in the USA/Canada/UK?
It depends on your income. If you have Indian-source income (e.g. rent, capital gains, interest from NRO accounts), you may need to file an Indian tax return. NRIs often have to file in both India and their country of residence. Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAA) between India and USA, Canada, and UK help avoid being taxed twice on the same income.
How do I file Indian taxes from abroad?
You can file online through the Indian tax portal (e-filing) or use a Chartered Accountant (CA) who specializes in NRI tax. NRIClub can connect you with verified CAs for NRI tax filing in USA, Canada and UK.
What is TDS for NRIs?
Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) applies to certain Indian income (e.g. rent, interest). For NRIs, TDS rates may be higher unless you submit Form 15CA/15CB or claim DTAA benefits. A CA can help you minimize TDS and claim refunds where applicable.
Banking – NRE, NRO, FCNR
What is the difference between NRE and NRO accounts?
NRE (Non-Resident External): Funded with foreign income; balance and interest are fully repatriable. Good for savings you may want to send back abroad.
NRO (Non-Resident Ordinary): For Indian-source income (rent, dividends, etc.); repatriation is limited (e.g. USD 1 million per financial year subject to rules). Both are rupee accounts. FCNR is a foreign currency (e.g. USD) fixed deposit in India.
Can I have both NRE and NRO accounts?
Yes. Many NRIs hold both: NRE for foreign remittances and NRO for Indian income like rent or dividends. Rules for each are different; check with your bank or a CA.
Property & Investments
Can NRIs buy property in India?
Yes. NRIs can buy residential and commercial property in India (except agricultural land). Sale proceeds from residential property can be repatriated subject to limits (e.g. two properties). Documentation and repatriation rules are specific; legal and CA advice is recommended.
Can NRIs invest in Indian mutual funds?
Yes, through NRE/NRO accounts. Not all funds are available to NRIs; many AMCs allow NRI investments. NRIClub’s investment section and advisors can guide you on NRI-eligible options in USA, Canada and UK.
How can I manage my property in India from abroad?
NRIClub offers access to verified property management services: rent collection, tenant verification, maintenance, and legal support. You can request these through our Services section after signing in.
FEMA & Compliance
What is FEMA and how does it affect NRIs?
The Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) governs foreign exchange and cross-border transactions in India. For NRIs it covers remittances, NRE/NRO accounts, property purchase/sale, and investments. Violations can lead to penalties; it’s important to follow FEMA and take advice when in doubt.
How much can I send to India or repatriate?
Inward remittance to India is generally free. Repatriation from NRO (e.g. sale of property, income) is subject to limits and documentation (e.g. Form 15CA/15CB for certain payments). NRE principal and interest are freely repatriable. Specific limits apply to capital gains and other income; a CA can advise.
Family & Support
Can NRIClub help with elder care or family support in India?
Yes. We connect NRIs in USA, Canada and UK with verified services for elder care, home support, and hospital coordination in India. You can browse Family services after logging in.