Settle in Kerala from Canada — Complete NRI Return Guide 2026

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

Canada to Kerala — Key Steps

1. Exit planning: Resign, collect CPP/RRSP, sort provincial health coverage end date
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 Vancouver/Toronto + TR customs exemption
5. Update status: Notify banks, update Aadhaar, file ITR + Canadian departure return
6. Start business: Register entity and apply for funding

Canada-Specific Considerations

• RRSP/TFSA: Understand tax implications of withdrawing or leaving accounts open
• CPP: Canada Pension Plan credits — can collect from age 60 even after leaving
• Departure tax return: File Canadian departure return for the year of leaving
• PR/Citizenship: Surrendering PR has no tax exit charge; citizenship can be retained
• OCI card: Apply if not already held — no visa required for India visits
• Canadian 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