Build & Manage NRI Investments With Confidence.
Advisory on NRI Investment Structuring under FEMA and Income Tax Regulations
In a Better Regulated Global Financial Environment
Selecting the appropriate route—NRE or NRO account—for investments in India affects not only the taxability and repatriation of income, but also compliance with FEMA, RBI, and Income Tax Act provisions. Improper structuring or documentation may result in remittance delays, TDS mismatches, or regulatory notices.
At Lekshmi N Iyer & Associates, we provide advisory support to Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) on structuring investments across various asset classes, such as real estate, fixed deposits, mutual funds, and unlisted equity, with appropriate documentation and regulatory alignment.
Our role is to assist clients in maintaining compliance, ensuring that investment and income flows are appropriately structured and reported in accordance with Indian regulations.
NRIs, OCIs, foreign investors, and professionals seeking structured investment advisory in compliance with FEMA and Indian tax regulations.
Account Suitability & Regulatory Advisory
We provide factual, compliance-focused advisory to NRIs and resident individuals on cross-border financial matters, based on the applicable provisions of the Income-tax Act, FEMA, and relevant RBI guidelines.
Account Suitability Assessment
We assist in evaluating whether an NRE (repatriable) or NRO (non-repatriable) account is appropriate based on the client’s intended transaction type, income source, and regulatory status under FEMA.
Asset-Specific Structuring (FEMA-Compliant)
We provide advisory on the permissible routes and documentation requirements for investing in India across asset classes such as real estate, equity shares, and other instruments—ensuring the structure aligns with RBI and FEMA regulations.
Tax & DTAA Alignment
We assist in the application of domestic tax laws and Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAAs) to determine appropriate tax withholding, disclosure obligations, and repatriation treatment.
Repatriation Documentation Support
We help compile and review documentary support required for repatriation of funds from India, including source-of-funds tracing, acquisition proof, and transaction compliance history.
Regulatory Filing Guidance
We assist in the preparation and filing of relevant compliance forms including Form 15CA/CB, bank declarations, and other FEMA-linked documentation required for foreign remittances.
Includes documentation support, regulatory briefings, and advisory in accordance with applicable FEMA, RBI, and tax guidelines.
Why This Matters
Improper structuring of NRI investments may lead to tax implications, delayed or disallowed repatriation, or FEMA non-compliance. Structured planning aligned with FEMA, RBI, and Income Tax laws supports regulatory clarity, accurate reporting, and effective compliance with Indian and foreign jurisdictions.
We do not provide investment advice or recommendations related to portfolio performance, returns, or specific securities. All advisory services are limited to regulatory compliance and documentation under Indian laws.
Client Impact
Stepwise. Transparent. Informed by Applicable Regulations
- Asset & Income Mapping
Review the nature and source of income or assets, including intended use and repatriation objectives. - Account Strategy Advisory (NRO vs NRE)
Provide guidance on the use of NRO or NRE accounts based on asset type, income flow, and remittance intent. - Regulatory Assessment
Apply relevant provisions of FEMA, RBI circulars, and sector-specific caps or conditions to ensure alignment. - Documentation Advisory
Assist in identifying required disclosures, compliance steps, and applicable filing formats (e.g., Form 15CA/CB, declarations).
Post-Setup Reporting Support
Offer continued advisory on annual filings, TDS obligations, and disclosures under Indian tax law and applicable DTAAs.
Choose Right Investment Channel
Real Estate Buyers
Evaluate whether funds should be routed through NRE (repatriable) or NRO (non-repatriable) accounts, based on income use and repatriation goals.
Fixed Income Investors
Understand the tax implications and available DTAA relief when investing in fixed deposits or debt instruments through NRO or NRE channels.
Start-up Founders & Angel Investors
Advisory on structuring capital inflows into Indian startups in compliance with FEMA, RBI circulars, and reporting obligations (e.g., FC-GPR).
Retired NRIs
Plan for allocation of passive income into appropriate investment instruments while maintaining alignment with repatriation eligibility and regulatory norms
NRO/NRE Investment Structuring FAQs
Common questions about NRO /NRE investment in India.
What’s the difference between NRE and NRO accounts?
NRE is for foreign income and is repatriable; NRO is for income earned in India. Each has specific tax and compliance rules.
Can I repatriate investments made through my NRO account?
Yes, up to $1 million/year with proper certification (Form 15CA/CB). We handle the documentation for you.
Which account is better for real estate investments?
Depends on source of funds and repatriation goals. We analyze your specific case before advising.
Is income from NRE investments tax-free?
Interest on NRE FDs is tax-free in India if you qualify as NRI under tax law. But documentation is key.
