Quick answer: NRIs and OCI cardholders can buy residential and commercial property in India without special permission, but not agricultural land, plantation property or farmhouses. Payments must come through Indian banking channels, such as money remitted from abroad or funds in NRE, NRO or FCNR accounts, and a trusted person can act for you in India under a power of attorney.
Hyderabad is a popular choice for Indians living abroad, whether to come back home one day, to house family, or to invest. Here is what you need to know before you buy.
Who can buy
Non-Resident Indians (NRIs: Indian citizens living outside India) and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI cardholders) can buy property in India in much the same way as residents.
What you can and cannot buy
| Property type | Can NRIs and OCIs buy? |
|---|---|
| Apartments, villas and other homes | Yes |
| Commercial property such as offices and shops | Yes |
| Residential or commercial plots | Yes |
| Agricultural land, plantation property or farmhouses | No (except by inheritance) |
There is no limit on the number of residential or commercial properties you can buy.
How payments work
- Pay through normal banking channels: money remitted from abroad, or funds in your NRE, NRO or FCNR account in India
- Payments cannot be made in foreign currency cash or traveller’s cheques
- Many Indian banks and housing finance companies offer home loans to NRIs, repaid from your NRE or NRO account or by remittance
- Pay only to the developer’s official bank account and keep every receipt
Documents you will usually need
- Passport, and OCI card if applicable
- PAN card
- Proof of your overseas address
- Passport-size photographs
- For a home loan: proof of income such as salary slips or an employment contract, bank statements and your visa or work permit
Buying without travelling: power of attorney
You can authorise a trusted family member or friend in India to sign documents and complete the registration for you through a power of attorney (POA). A POA signed abroad generally needs to be attested at an Indian embassy or consulate (or apostilled, where applicable) and then stamped in India within the prescribed time after it arrives. Use a specific POA that covers only this purchase, and have it drafted by a professional.
Tax and repatriation
Rental income from property in India is taxable in India, and tax is deducted at source on certain property transactions involving NRIs. Rules on taking sale proceeds back abroad (repatriation) depend on how the property was paid for. Because these rules are detailed and change from time to time, speak to a chartered accountant who works with NRIs before you buy and before you sell.
How we help NRIs
- Consultations at times that suit your time zone
- Video walkthroughs of sites and sample flats
- Shortlists of RERA-registered projects with clear comparisons
- Coordination with developers, lenders and your representative in India
Talk to an adviser to start your search from wherever you are.
Frequently asked questions
Can NRIs buy agricultural land in Telangana?
No. NRIs and OCI cardholders cannot buy agricultural land, plantation property or farmhouses in India, although they can inherit them.
Can an NRI get a home loan in India?
Yes. Many banks and housing finance companies offer home loans to NRIs. Eligibility depends on your income, employer, country of residence and credit history.
Do I need to be in India for the registration?
Not necessarily. A person holding a properly executed and stamped power of attorney can complete the registration on your behalf.
This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Rules change; please confirm the current position with a qualified professional.