You've sold a flat, inherited a deposit, or built up an NRO balance — and now you want that money abroad. Repatriation from India is completely legal, but it runs on a specific limit and paperwork trail. Here's how it works.
The USD 1 million rule
From your NRO account, you can repatriate up to USD 1 million per financial year (April–March), covering sale proceeds, inheritance, and NRO balances. Money in an NRE account is freely repatriable with no such cap — which is exactly why foreign earnings belong in NRE.
The paperwork: Forms 15CA and 15CB
- Form 15CB: a certificate from a Chartered Accountant confirming the nature of the funds and that taxes have been paid.
- Form 15CA: your declaration filed online with the Income Tax Department, based on the 15CB.
- The bank needs both before it will process the outward remittance.
Common scenarios
- Property sale: proceeds go to your NRO account first; repatriate within the $1M limit after paying capital gains tax. Holding period determines the rate.
- Inheritance: repatriable up to the $1M limit with proof of source (will, succession) and a CA certificate.
- Rent/dividends: current-income can generally be repatriated with the right declarations.
Plan the timing
If you need to move more than $1M (e.g., after selling a large property), you may need to spread it across financial years. Planning the sale date and the remittance calendar together can save you a year of waiting.
This article is educational and not tax, legal, or investment advice. Cross-border rules change and depend on your specific residency and country. Confirm your situation with a qualified cross-border CA/CPA before acting.
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Frequently asked
Is there a limit on NRE repatriation? No — NRE funds (foreign earnings) are freely repatriable. The $1M/year cap applies to NRO.
Do I need a CA to repatriate? For most NRO remittances, yes — Form 15CB is a CA certificate and the bank requires it alongside your 15CA.