Selling property in India as an NRI: the steps and the tax

Selling property from abroad works best in this order: check that the title and records are clean, decide who will sign (you on a visit, or someone with a power of attorney), apply for a lower TDS certificate before the sale so the buyer doesn't deduct more than you owe, and plan how the money will move from your NRO account abroad.

What to do

1. Check the title, encumbrance certificate and property records, and fix anything out of date.
2. Decide who signs. If you can't travel, give a specific power of attorney.
3. Work out your capital gains and apply for a lower TDS certificate before you agree the sale.
4. Complete the sale and receive the money in your NRO account.
5. Send the money abroad with Forms 15CA and 15CB, and file your Indian tax return.

Common questions

How much TDS will the buyer deduct? It depends on how long you held the property and on the sale price. It is often much more than the tax you actually owe, which is why a lower TDS certificate helps.

Can I sell without coming to India? Yes, through a specific power of attorney signed abroad and registered in India.

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