11 January 2014
An NRI is having NRE account and wants to invest fund in stock market as also wants to lend money to an India friend. On completion of transactions, he wants to repartriate the funds. What are requirements and limitations of doing so?
Will there be any difference if the NRI operates through NRO account?
09 August 2024
Repatriating money from NRE (Non-Resident External) and NRO (Non-Resident Ordinary) accounts involves specific conditions and processes based on Indian foreign exchange regulations. Here's a detailed guide on how money can be repatriated from these accounts:
### **NRE Account Repatriation**
**Conditions for Repatriation:** 1. **Source of Funds:** Money in NRE accounts is freely repatriable. This means you can transfer funds to your home country or any other foreign country without restrictions, as long as the source of funds is legitimate and compliant with Indian regulations. 2. **Tax Compliance:** Ensure that all applicable taxes in India are settled before repatriating funds. The interest earned on NRE accounts is tax-free in India, but you must comply with the tax laws of the country where you are a tax resident. 3. **Account Status:** The NRE account must be operational, and you must be in good standing with your bank.
**Repatriation Process:** 1. **Contact Your Bank:** Approach the bank where you hold the NRE account. Request for repatriation of funds and provide necessary details. 2. **Documentation:** Typically, you'll need to provide: - **Form 15CA/15CB:** These forms are required to declare the nature and amount of the remittance. Form 15CA is a self-declaration, and Form 15CB is a certificate issued by a Chartered Accountant. - **Passport Copy:** As proof of identity. - **Proof of Funds Source:** Documentation showing the source of the funds if required by the bank. - **Bank Statement:** Showing the amount to be repatriated. 3. **Transfer Request:** Submit a written request or complete an online form (if available) to instruct the bank to transfer the funds to your foreign account.
### **NRO Account Repatriation**
**Conditions for Repatriation:** 1. **Repatriation Limit:** Funds in NRO accounts are repatriable up to $1 million per financial year. This limit applies to the total amount repatriated, including income and capital. 2. **Source of Funds:** Funds can be repatriated, but they must comply with Indian tax regulations. Income from NRO accounts is subject to Indian taxation, and taxes must be paid before repatriation. 3. **Tax Compliance:** You need to obtain a Tax Clearance Certificate from the Indian tax authorities, indicating that all taxes on the funds have been paid. 4. **Account Status:** The NRO account should be in good standing.
**Repatriation Process:** 1. **Tax Clearance Certificate:** Obtain this from the Indian Income Tax Department. You might need to file a tax return for the relevant financial year. 2. **Form 15CA/15CB:** Similar to NRE accounts, you need to fill out these forms for repatriation from NRO accounts. - **Form 15CA:** A self-declaration form. - **Form 15CB:** A certificate from a Chartered Accountant. 3. **Contact Your Bank:** Request the bank to repatriate the funds. The bank will guide you through the process and verify that all documentation is in order. 4. **Provide Documentation:** Typically includes: - **Tax Clearance Certificate.** - **Form 15CA/15CB.** - **Passport Copy.** - **Bank Statement:** Showing the amount to be repatriated. 5. **Submit Transfer Request:** Complete the necessary paperwork or online forms as directed by your bank.
### **General Considerations**
- **Regulations Change:** Keep in mind that foreign exchange regulations can change. Always check the latest guidelines from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) or consult with a financial advisor. - **Bank-Specific Requirements:** Banks might have additional requirements or processes, so always check with your bank for specific instructions.
By following these steps and ensuring compliance with the regulations, you can effectively repatriate funds from NRE and NRO accounts.