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Can an NRI Buy Residential Plots in India?Can NRIs Buy Plots in India? 2026 Rules, Restrictions & New Tax Ease Explained
For many NRIs, owning a piece of land back home is more than an investment—it’s an emotional anchor. A future home, a retirement plan, or simply a long-term asset that grows in value over time. But before taking that step, it’s essential to understand what the law actually allows.
Surprisingly, the rules for NRIs are more straightforward than most people think—especially after the latest Budget 2026 announcement that has simplified one of the most troublesome tax requirements.
Let’s break everything down in simple terms.
So, Can NRIs Buy Plots in India?
Yes, absolutely.
NRIs are free to buy:
Residential plots
Commercial plots
Apartments and other built homes
There’s no need to approach the RBI for approval, and there’s no cap on the number of properties you can own.
Where the law draws a hard line is with:
Agricultural land
Plantation estates
Farmhouses
These cannot be bought directly, no matter where the NRI is living. They can only be inherited or received as a gift.
A Big Change in 2026: No More TAN Requirement
If an NRI sells property in India, the resident buyer is required to deduct TDS.
Until now, this process involved the buyer getting a Tax Deduction Account Number (TAN)—a step that confused most people and often delayed the deal.
Starting October 1, 2026, this requirement disappears.
Buyers can simply use their PAN to deposit the TDS.
No extra numbers, no extra paperwork.
This small change will make NRI transactions much smoother and quicker.
How NRIs Are Expected to Pay
All payments for property—whether a plot or a ready home—must come in Indian Rupees.
NRIs generally use these accounts:
NRE
NRO
FCNR
Funds can also be transferred from abroad directly through banking channels.
Cash is not allowed, and foreign currency must not be handed over physically.
Loans from Indian banks are permitted too, as long as the funds flow through regulated accounts.
Using a Power of Attorney (POA)
Most NRIs can’t fly back to India for every signature or document.
The law understands this.
A Power of Attorney can handle:
Registration
Agreement signing
Possession formalities
Signing the POA at an Indian Consulate or before a recognized notary abroad is enough. The document just needs to be stamped or adjudicated once it reaches India.
What Happens When an NRI Sells a Plot?
Repatriation is allowed, but with limits.
You can send up to USD 1 million per financial year out of India, provided:
Taxes are cleared
The original purchase payment can be proven
Documents like the sale deed are in order
A chartered accountant will typically handle the compliance for repatriation.
Things NRIs Should Watch Out for Before Buying
- Check if the plot is truly “residential”
Some plots are marketed as residential but may still be listed as agricultural on government records.
Always verify land conversion documents.
- Check RERA registration
Most plotted developments are legally required to get RERA approval.
This will also protect you against delayed handovers or disputed layouts.
- Verify the seller's title
Land ownership is a sensitive issue in India. One has to check:
Title chains
Certificates of Encumbrance
Demarcation and layout approvals
- Citizenship restrictions
If the NRI is a citizen of Pakistan, Bangladesh, China, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Iran, Nepal, or Bhutan, they must obtain prior RBI approval before buying anything.
Why Many NRIs Prefer Plots Over Built Property
Compared to apartments, plot investments offer:
More freedom to build later
Higher appreciation in fast-growing cities
Lower maintenance costs
Better long-term resale value
For NRIs planning eventual relocation or retirement in India, a plot can be a sensible first step.
Final Thoughts
Buying a residential plot in India as an NRI is not complicated. The legal framework is friendly, and with the 2026 tax update eliminating the TAN requirement, selling to or buying from an NRI will become even simpler.
It can be challenging to design a home on an irregular or odd-shaped plot, but with the correct inspiration, you can create a stunning and useful space. Here are five clever ways to maximise these kinds of plots.
- Embrace the Shape of the Plot
Use the plot's inherent angles rather than attempting to impose a rectangular design. Curved walls, diagonal balconies, and flowing rooflines can all be used to create a unique and attractive home. You can also add distinctive features with this method, such as spiral staircases or large windows with stunning views.
- Use Modular Layouts
Break the space into smaller zones for different functions. For example, you can keep the main living areas in the centre and use corners or edges for storage, gardens, or utility rooms. This way, no space is wasted, and every corner has a purpose.
- Keep Sunlight and Vastu in Mind
In India, Vastu plays an important role in home design. Make sure your home gets plenty of natural light and air. The kitchen, bedrooms, and main entrance should all be oriented to provide a positive energy flow. A well-planned home will feel cosy and cohesive.
- Try Split-Level or Multi-Storey Designs
Split-level or multi-story designs can be beneficial if the plot is irregularly shaped or has varying elevations. While living rooms and bedrooms can be found on the upper levels, garages and storage can be found on the lower levels. This adds an intriguing design element and makes the house useful.
- Create Smart Outdoor Spaces
Even irregular plots can have great outdoor areas. Courtyards, terraces, or rooftop gardens can fit the unique shape of the land. These areas can become private retreats or spaces for family activities.
Conclusion
It can be challenging to design a house on an irregular plot. But with careful planning, using creative layouts, and taking sunlight and Vastu principles into consideration, you can create a home that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
The kind of ownership you have over real estate affects both your rights now and the future value of your investment. Freehold property is by far the safest and most lucrative ownership structure available in India.
But what exactly is freehold, how does it compare to leasehold, and why do buyers and investors prefer it? Let’s break it down.
What is a Freehold Property?
A freehold property means you enjoy absolute and perpetual ownership of both the land and any structures built on it. There are no time limits, no ground rent, and no external approvals required to use, modify, or transfer the property.
Think of it as complete control – once purchased, the property is truly yours.
Key Characteristics of Freehold Property
- Absolute & Perpetual Ownership: Your rights over the land and building are permanent.
- Flexibility: Renovate, lease, sell, or gift your property without seeking approval.
- No Time Limit: Unlike leasehold, ownership never expires.
- No Ground Rent: No annual payments to the government or developer.
- Greater Value: Freehold properties typically increase in value more quickly and have a higher resale value.
Advantages of Freehold Property Ownership
- Total Control Long-Term Investing Financial Adaptability
- Easy Inheritance
Are There Drawbacks?
Cost is the main disadvantage. Generally speaking, freehold properties cost more up front than leasehold properties. Owners are also solely in charge of taxes and upkeep.
Conclusion
Freehold real estate is still the best option for purchasers looking for security, stability, and long-term value. In addition to providing peace of mind, it also ensures that your investment will increase and be retained by your family for many generations to come.
Keep in mind this when deciding between leasehold and freehold: a freehold is a legacy, not just a piece of real estate.
Haaaving to decide between branded and ordinary land? Regular land may appear less expensive, but there are risks involved. Branded land guarantees total peace of mind, long-term value, and security.
- Unambiguous legal titles
You avoid disagreements or hidden liabilities when you own branded land with verified titles and approvals.
- Prepared Infrastructure
From roads to water and power, the branded plots are well-developed. Regular plots usually require additional expenses for necessities.
- Favourite Sites
Branded projects are investments that are future-proof because they are situated close to business districts, schools, and growth centres.
- The standing of reputable builders
Buying from a well-known brand guarantees dependability, quality, and timely development.
- Fast Return on Investment
Improved location and infrastructure cause branded land to appreciate more quickly and yield higher returns.
- Safety & Community Living
Branded plans have gated security, CCTV, and community amenities that plots don't.
- Sustainable Development
Rainwater harvesting for green parks and branded projects is all about sustainable living and future growth.
Regular land might seem appealing at first, but branded land is a secure, high-return, and future-proof investment that appreciates with time.
Maharashtra Govt Approves Two New Metro Stations on Swargate Katraj Corridor
The Maharashtra government has authorised the addition of two new underground stations—Bibwewadi and Balaji Nagar—to the planned Swargate–Katraj metro extension, which is a major development for Pune's metro network.
The decision was finalised during a Cabinet Committee on Infrastructure meeting chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, with Deputy CM Ajit Pawar and Urban Development Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule in attendance.
Two Key Additions
The 5.46 km underground stretch, known as Line-1B of the Purple Line, was earlier planned with three stations: Market Yard, Padmavati, and Katraj. With strong public demand for better access along the route, the state government has now cleared the proposal for Balaji Nagar (near Bharati Vidyapeeth) and Bibwewadi stations.
Construction Timeline
Though the ground-breaking ceremony for the Swargate–Katraj extension was held in September 2024, actual construction work has been delayed due to retendering. The corridor is expected to be completed within four years of starting, and officials now anticipate contracts to be finalised by October 2025, after the monsoon.
Why It Matters
Traffic congestion along the Satara Road corridor will be reduced once the extension is operational, offering smooth connectivity from central Pune to the southern hub of Katraj. The two newly approved stations are expected to benefit thousands of daily commuters, including students, office-goers, and residents in Bibwewadi and Balaji Nagar.
Real estate transactions are legally subject to stamp duty levied by the state government. It serves as proof of ownership and the legality of the sale agreement and ensures that the transfer of property rights is recognised by the law. A real estate transaction is deemed legally invalid if stamp duty and registration fees are not paid.
The Maharashtra government kept Pune's registration fees and stamp duty the same in 2025.
|
Ownership Type |
Stamp Duty (incl. 1% Metro Cess) |
Registration Fee |
Total |
|
Male |
7% |
1% |
8% |
|
Female |
6% |
1% |
7% |
|
Male+Female |
6.5% |
1% |
7.5% |
|
Female+Female |
6% |
1% |
7% |
|
Male+ Male |
7% |
1% |
8% |
Area-Wise Stamp Duty in Pune
|
Pune Areas |
Stamp Duty Rates |
|
Within Gram Panchayat limit |
4% |
|
Within Panchayat or Rural areas under MMRDA |
5% |
|
Within Cantonment area or Municipal Corporation limits |
5% |
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