Despite the common misconception, the PAN Card has been a requirement by the Government of India for quite some time. It is not a recent regulation as many people believe. However, it is now a mandatory requirement. In this article, we provide you with an overview,...
NRI Legal Services Guides and Insights
NRI legal services help Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs) manage legal, property and documentation matters in India from the UK. These guides cover selling, buying and inheriting Indian property, Power of Attorney, PAN, OCI and the compliance rules that apply when you live in the UK but hold interests in India. Start with the main service areas, or browse the full list below.
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Property
Buying & selling Indian property as an NRI
The process, compliance and repatriation of funds.
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Inheritance
Inheriting Indian property as an NRI
Establishing title, succession and updating records.
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Documents
PAN card for NRIs & foreign citizens
When you need a PAN and how to apply from the UK.
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All NRI legal services guides
OCI Documents Required: Marriage Certificate
Despite a vast amount of information available online, the OCI documents required can sometimes cause confusion. In this article we consider a UK marriage certificate and its applicability when applying for an OCI from the United Kingdom. Also, what are the correct...
OCI Nativity Certificate: Proving Indian Origin Without Documents
Missing your parents’ Indian passports? Learn how UK residents can obtain a Nativity Certificate from India to prove Indian origin for an OCI application.
OCI – PAN – Aadhaar Explained: Foreign Citizen
When it comes to the matter of identity and documentation in India, there are several crucial aspects that require consideration. One such aspect pertains to the OCI-PAN-Aadhaar Cards. Foreign Citizens of India may find themselves grappling with the question of...
How to Surrender an Indian Passport in the UK (2026)
Understand how to surrender your Indian passport in the UK: VFS rules, the 3-month grace period, and essential OCI/PAN implications
Indian Property Law Mutation & Help of A POA
management of real estate in India. Under Indian property law, there are various types of properties, including residential, commercial, agricultural, and industrial properties
PAN Card India Foreign Citizen Problems: Dos and Don’ts
In this article, we look at key problems for PAN Card India when applying or when you need to update your existing PAN. Subsequently, what you should and shouldn't do if you fall into either category. Before we begin, here is a brief recap on PAN and how to apply from...
Permanent Account Number: Clarified 2023
If you’re in the process of selling Indian property, opening a new Indian bank account such as a Non Resident Ordinary or Non Resident External account, you’ve probably been asked to provide your Permanent Account Number. This article provides you with a round up of a...
Update PAN Card from Resident to NRI
In continuation of our previous articles on updating your existing PAN Card, if you have financial matters in India you may already hold a PAN. We discuss the requirements to update PAN Card from Resident to NRI. In addition, whether you fall under the parameters of...
Capital Gains Tax India & PAN Card – 2023
In this segment you will find information about Capital Gains Tax India and its correlation to PAN Card. As a Foreign Citizen of India with immovable property either inherited, gifted or purchased, frequently the question persists whether capital gains tax is...
Common questions about NRI legal matters
Can an NRI sell property in India without travelling there?
Yes, in most cases, by appointing a trusted person in India through a registered Power of Attorney. The POA is signed in the UK, authenticated for use in India, and stamped and registered in the relevant state. The appointed person can then deal with the sale on the NRI's behalf, within the powers the deed grants.
Do NRIs need a PAN card for property and financial matters in India?
A PAN card is generally needed where an NRI sells property, receives certain income, or files a return in India. It is the tax identification number the Indian authorities use, and is often requested during property and banking transactions. NRIs and OCIs apply on the form for their status.
Can proceeds from an Indian property sale be brought to the UK?
Sale proceeds can generally be repatriated from India, subject to the Reserve Bank of India's foreign exchange rules and any tax deducted at source on the sale. Because tax and exchange rules apply, the position should be confirmed before the sale completes. Whytecroft Ford does not provide UK tax advice, which should be taken from a UK tax adviser.
How Whytecroft Ford can help
NRI matters turn on getting the cross-border sequence right. A document signed in the UK has to be authenticated in the form India accepts, and property, succession and revenue steps have to follow the rules of the relevant Indian state. A step taken in the wrong order stalls the whole matter.
The Whytecroft Ford Indian law team acts for UK-based NRIs and OCIs on property sales and management, Powers of Attorney, inheritance and succession, and Indian documentation such as PAN. To discuss an NRI legal matter with our team, call 0208 757 5751 or use the contact form.
The material in this article is provided for guidance and general information only and is not intended to constitute legal or other professional advice upon which you should rely. In particular, the information should not be used as a substitute for a full and proper consultation with a suitably qualified professional. Indian Law is subject to change. Please do contact the Whytecroft Ford team if you require further advice.