How NRIs Can Buy Property in Kerala: Complete 2026 Guide

Can NRIs Buy Property in Kerala?

Yes — Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) are legally permitted to purchase residential and commercial property in Kerala under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA). This guide covers everything you need to know about buying property in Kerala as an NRI in 2026.

Types of Property NRIs Can Buy in Kerala

• Residential properties (houses, apartments, villas)
• Commercial properties (offices, shops)
• Agricultural land (restricted — requires RBI approval)
• Plantation land (restricted)

Key FEMA Rules for NRI Property Purchase

Under FEMA regulations, NRIs can purchase property in India using funds from their NRE, NRO, or FCNR accounts. Repatriation of sale proceeds is permitted subject to conditions. No RBI approval is needed for residential or commercial property purchases.

Step-by-Step Process to Buy Property in Kerala as an NRI

1. Choose the property — residential, commercial, or plot
2. Verify title and encumbrance — check for clear title at the Sub-Registrar office
3. Arrange financing — NRI home loan or self-funded via NRE/NRO account
4. Execute sale agreement — Power of Attorney (PoA) can be used if you are abroad
5. Pay stamp duty and registration charges — varies by district in Kerala
6. Register the property — at the local Sub-Registrar office

Documents Required for NRI Property Purchase in Kerala

• Passport and visa copies
• OCI/PIO card (if applicable)
• PAN card
• NRE/NRO bank account details
• Power of Attorney (if purchasing remotely)
• Property documents (title deed, encumbrance certificate, approved plan)

Stamp Duty and Registration Charges in Kerala (2026)

Stamp duty in Kerala is typically 8% of the property value, with an additional 2% registration charge. NRIs are subject to the same rates as resident Indians.

NRI Home Loan for Kerala Property

Blueberry FM facilitates NRI home loans up to ₹10 Crores through a network of RBI-regulated banks and NBFCs.

• NRI Home Loan Kerala — Interest Rates & Eligibility 2026
• NRI Home Construction Loan Kerala 2026
• Loan Against Property up to ₹5 Crores

Tax Implications for NRI Property Buyers

NRIs are subject to TDS on property purchases. The buyer must deduct TDS at 20% on long-term capital gains or 30% on short-term gains when purchasing from an NRI seller.

Read our NRI Tax Planning Guide →

Related Property Guides

• NRI Property Laws Kerala — FEMA Rules & Rights
• NRI Home Loan Kerala 2026
• NRI Home Construction Loan Kerala
• NRI Tax Planning — FEMA & Capital Gains
• NRI Banking — NRE vs NRO vs FCNR
• NRI Investment Guide Kerala

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