If you hold a foreign licence, check how long you can drive before needing a UK licence. Consider a few local lessons to adjust to left‑side driving, roundabouts, and speed cameras. Insurance pricing varies a lot; compare widely and declare your driving history honestly. Many families choose one car and supplement with trains and buses—Londoners often skip cars entirely. Keep a simple glovebox kit: reflective jacket, breakdown cover, and phone mount. Use parking apps to avoid fines. Most importantly, practice off‑peak first; confidence grows quickly when you ease into UK roads.
FAQs
What defines an NRI according to Indian law?
An NRI, as per the Income Tax Act, is an individual who is in India for less than 182 days during the preceding financial year.
Can an NRI own property in India?
Yes, an NRI can own both residential and commercial properties in India. However, they cannot purchase agricultural land, plantation property, or farmhouses.
Are NRIs taxed on their global income in India?
No, NRIs are only taxed on the income earned or accrued in India.
How can I check my NRI status for a specific year?
You can use an NRI status calculator or refer to the criteria set by the Income Tax Act based on your stay duration in India.
Can an NRI operate a bank account in India?
Yes, NRIs can operate NRE (Non-Resident External) and NRO (Non-Resident Ordinary) accounts in India.
What is the difference between NRI, PIO, and OCI?
NRI is a tax status, while PIO (Person of Indian Origin) and OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) are types of citizenship statuses for people of Indian origin living abroad.
Are there any restrictions on investments for NRIs in India?
While NRIs can invest in most sectors in India, there are restrictions on agricultural land and certain financial products.
Can an NRI vote in Indian elections?
No, NRIs are not eligible to vote unless they are physically present in their constituency.
How does the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) benefit NRIs?
DTAA ensures that NRIs don't pay tax on the same income in both their country of residence and India.
Can an NRI's status change to resident if they stay beyond a certain duration in India?
Yes, if an individual stays in India for more than 182 days in a financial year, their status can change to a resident.
Are NRIs eligible for Aadhaar cards?
Yes, if an NRI has stayed in India for 182 days or more in the 12 months immediately preceding the date of application, they can apply for an Aadhaar card.
Can NRIs take loans in India?
Yes, NRIs can avail of home loans, personal loans, and car loans in India, subject to certain conditions.
How are capital gains from property sales taxed for NRIs?
NRIs are subject to capital gains tax in India, similar to residents. However, the tax rate and exemptions might vary.
Can an NRI start a business in India?
Yes, NRIs can start a business in India. However, there are certain sectors where FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) restrictions apply.
Are NRIs subject to wealth tax in India?
No, the wealth tax was abolished in 2015. NRIs are not subject to wealth tax in India.
Can an NRI's income in India be taxed in their country of residence?
It depends on the country's tax laws. However, if there's a DTAA between India and that country, double taxation can be avoided.
How can NRIs repatriate funds from India?
NRIs can repatriate funds through their NRE or FCNR (Foreign Currency Non-Resident) accounts, subject to certain conditions.
Can NRIs invest in mutual funds in India?
Yes, NRIs can invest in mutual funds in India, though there might be certain restrictions based on their country of residence.
Are NRIs eligible for social security benefits in India?
No, NRIs are not eligible for social security benefits in India.
Can an NRI's status affect their inheritance or will in India?
No, an NRI's status does not affect their right to inherit property in India. However, repatriation of inherited assets might have restrictions.
What is the definition of NRI as per RBI and who is NRI as per income tax?
The definition of NRI as per RBI focuses on the intention of stay outside India, whereas NRI status as per income tax is based on the actual duration of stay in India during a financial year. Understanding these criteria helps determine who is NRI in India for compliance and benefits.
How to check residential status in India and what are the NRI benefits in India?
To check your residential status in India, you can review the guidelines provided by the Income Tax Act and the RBI, which detail who is NRI as per RBI and who is NRI as per income tax. NRIs in India enjoy various benefits such as tax exemptions on certain incomes and the ability to maintain NRE and NRO accounts, among others. Staying updated with new rules for NRI in India is essential to stay up to date.
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