Settle in Kerala from Australia — Complete NRI Return Guide 2026

Planning to return to Kerala from Australia? This guide covers financial planning, property, business setup, tax implications, and family relocation for Australia-based Keralites.

Australia to Kerala — Key Steps

1. Exit planning: Resign, access superannuation (if eligible), notify ATO of departure
2. Repatriate funds: Wire transfer to NRE account — FEMA allows unlimited repatriation
3. Sort property: NRI Home Loan up to ₹10 Crores
4. Ship goods: Sea freight from Sydney/Melbourne + TR customs exemption
5. Update status: Notify banks, update Aadhaar, file ITR + ATO departure return
6. Start business: Register entity and apply for funding

Australia-Specific Considerations

• Superannuation: Can access super early if departing Australia permanently on a temporary visa; PR/citizens must wait until preservation age
• ATO departure: Lodge a tax return for the year of departure; notify ATO of non-residency
• Australia-India DTAA: Double Tax Avoidance Agreement prevents double taxation
• PR/Citizenship: Australian citizenship can be retained; PR travel facility expires after 5 years
• OCI card: Apply if not already held — no visa required for India visits
• Australian driving licence: Not directly convertible — Indian licence required

Property Finance

• NRI Home Loan — up to ₹10 Crores
• NRI Construction Loan
• NRI Plot Purchase Loan
• Loan Against Property — up to ₹5 Crores