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NRI Property Guide

Buying Property in Kerala as an NRI

Bennyz Realty provides complete support for Non-Resident Indians looking to buy property in Kottayam and across Kerala.

FEMA Regulations for NRI Property Purchase

Under FEMA (Foreign Exchange Management Act), NRIs and PIOs can freely purchase residential and commercial property in India. Agricultural land, plantation property, and farmhouse purchases require prior RBI approval. All transactions must be in Indian Rupees through NRE or NRO accounts.

Documents Required

• Valid Indian passport and visa of resident country
• PAN card (mandatory for all property transactions in India)
• Power of Attorney if purchasing remotely (notarized and apostilled)
• NRE or NRO bank account statements
• Aadhaar card (if available) or OCI card
• Two passport-size photographs and address proof of overseas residence

Power of Attorney Process

If you cannot be physically present in Kerala for property registration, you can authorize a trusted person through a Power of Attorney. The POA must be executed on stamp paper, notarized at the Indian Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence, and apostilled as per the Hague Convention. Bennyz Realty guides you through the entire POA process for your specific country.

Tax Implications for NRIs

When an NRI sells property, the buyer deducts TDS under Section 195. For long-term capital gains (property held over 2 years), the rate is 12.5% without indexation for transfers on or after 23 July 2024 (plus applicable surcharge and cess); short-term gains are taxed at applicable income-tax slab rates. NRI sellers can apply for a Lower Deduction Certificate (Form 13) to avoid excess TDS, and may claim exemptions under Section 54 by reinvesting in another property. Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements between India and your country of residence may provide additional relief. Tax rules change frequently — confirm the current rates with a qualified chartered accountant before transacting; this is general information, not tax advice.

Why Kottayam for NRI Investment?

Kottayam offers NRIs a compelling investment proposition — property prices range from ₹40 Lakhs to ₹1.5 Crore, significantly lower than Kochi or Trivandrum. The district has excellent educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and connectivity via MC Road and railway. It is one of Kerala's most literate districts with strong community infrastructure, making it ideal for retirement homes or family residences.

How Bennyz Realty Helps NRIs

• Property identification and shortlisting via video calls and virtual tours
• Title verification and legal due diligence — see our complete title verification checklist
• POA guidance specific to your country of residence
• Coordination with local sub-registrar office for registration — see our stamp duty & registration cost guide
• Post-purchase property management and maintenance support
• Transparent pricing with no hidden charges