How Can NRI Investors Claim Tax Deduction In India?
The world of investment is a complex and ever-changing landscape, and India is no exception. With a steadily growing economy, a vibrant stock market, and a wide range of investment options, India has therefore become an attractive destination for NRIs looking to park their money in their home country.
However, with the dynamic Indian tax laws and regulations, it can be a daunting task for NRIs to navigate the investment landscape in the country. But, with the right guidance and due diligence, NRIs can take severe advantage of the tax-efficient investment options available in India and create a diversified portfolio that aligns with their financial goals. Let us understand how!
Now, with a steady influx of international remittances totaling over $87 billion in 2021 alone, it is quite clear that NRIs can see through the unique opportunity to tap into the Indian economy and generate wealth through strategic investments. According to a report by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the stock of NRI investments in India had grown from $4.5 billion in 1991 to $88 billion in 2019. Besides, NRIs have been consistently investing in India over the years. The report states that as of December 2020, the cumulative NRI deposits stood at US$78.5 billion, and NRI portfolio investments stood at US$20.9 billion. While recent reports are concerned, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, stated that Remittances from overseas Indians to India reached $100 billion in 2022. This is an increase of about 12% from 2021. This data additionally highlights the increasing interest of NRIs in investing in India and the potential for growth in the NRI investment market.
Why should NRIs continue investing in India?
One of the key advantages of investing in India for NRIs is the ability to diversify their investments. By using a variety of assets, such as mutual funds, bonds, and alternative investment funds, NRIs can effectively spread out their risk and increase their chances of generating wealth. Additionally, the Indian stock market has been known for its volatility, which can present opportunities for high returns for those who are willing to take on a higher level of risk.
Other than that, it is a great technique to safeguard their finances from being reliant on the expansion of just one economy. India’s economy is projected to grow at a steady pace in the coming years, providing a conducive environment for investment. Thus, it is a developing country with far greater growth potential than comparatively more developed economies, presenting a great opportunity for NRIs to invest and reap the benefits of such a fast-growing economy.
Additionally, the interest rates on investments in India can often be higher than in other countries, providing NRIs with a greater return on their investment, along with many tax-efficient policies provided in the country for them.
What are Some of the Tax-Efficient Investment Options Available for NRIs in India?
The Income Tax Act of India provides several tax-efficient investment options for NRIs looking to generate wealth in India. Some popular options include:
- Equity-linked savings schemes (ELSS): ELSS is an equity-oriented mutual fund scheme that comes with a lock-in period of 3 years. Not only do they have the potential for high returns, but NRIs can also claim a tax deduction of up to Rs. 1.5 Lakhs under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act.
- Public Provident Fund (PPF): NRIs can also invest in Public Provident Fund (PPF) and claim tax deductions under Section 80C. The PPF is a long-term investment option with a maturity period of 15 years and offers tax benefits as well as a decent rate of return.
- National Pension System (NPS): NPS is a pension scheme that allows NRIs to contribute to their retirement savings while in India. NRIs can claim tax deductions under Section 80CCD(1B) up to Rs. 50,000 over and above the limit of Rs. 1.5 Lakhs under Section 80C.
- Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs): REITs are investment vehicles that allow investors to invest in commercial real estate and reap the benefits of rental income and capital appreciation. NRIs can also invest in Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) and claim tax deductions under Section 80C.
- National Savings Certificate (NSC): NSC is a low-risk, government-backed fixed deposit scheme that offers a fixed rate of return. It has a lock-in period of 5 years and alongside it offers steady returns and tax deductions under Section 80C.
- Home loan interest: NRIs can claim tax deductions for the interest paid on home loans for the purchase, construction or reconstruction of the house property in India under Section 24 of the Income Tax Act. This can be a great way for NRIs to save on taxes while investing in property in India.
Investing in India can be a goldmine for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), however, they need to comply with the foreign exchange management act (FEMA) and have other regulations in place by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) before investing in India. Additionally, it’s also important for them to consult with a tax professional to ensure that they are fully compliant with the Indian tax laws, and to ensure that they are making the most tax-efficient investments possible.
For further investment-related inquiries connect with our relationship manager at Rurash Financials today or write to invest@rurashfin.com