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I'm a mechanical engineer returning to India from Mauritius – will I owe income tax?

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Financial Planner - Answered on Jul 30, 2024

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Asked by Anonymous - Jul 28, 2024Hindi
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I am working in Mauritius as an mechanical engineer from last 2020 and earning salary which is equivalent to 3 lakh Indian rupees. I plan to return to India by end of this year. Will i have to pay income tax on returning India for income earned in Mauritius?

Ans: Based on the information you've provided, it's highly unlikely that you'll have to pay income tax in India on the salary you earned in Mauritius.

Understanding the India-Mauritius Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA)

India and Mauritius have a DTAA in place to prevent double taxation.

This means that income earned in one country is generally not taxed in the other.

Key points to consider:

• Resident status: As you've been working in Mauritius since 2020, you're considered a tax resident of Mauritius for those years.
• Income earned in Mauritius: Your salary earned in Mauritius is primarily considered foreign income and is generally not taxable in India under the DTAA.
• Returning to India: When you return to India, you'll become a tax resident of India. However, this change in residency will not automatically trigger tax on your past income earned in Mauritius.

Potential Considerations:

While the DTAA generally protects you from double taxation, it's essential to consider these points:

• Specific circumstances: There might be specific circumstances, such as the nature of your employment or other income sources that could affect your tax liability.
• Professional advice: It's always advisable to consult with a tax professional to get personalised advice based on your specific situation.

To be completely certain about your tax obligations, it's recommended to seek guidance from a professional tax consultant in India for tailored-made advice based on your income, employment details and other relevant factors.

By understanding the DTAA and seeking professional advice, you can ensure compliance with Indian tax laws and avoid any unexpected tax liabilities.
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
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Financial Planner - Answered on Jul 18, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 16, 2024Hindi
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I am working in Dubai at an MNC company since May 2022. I am thinking of coming back to India this year. Will I have to pay any tax in India on the income that I have earned in Dubai between May 2022 and June 2024?
Ans: Most likely, you will not have to pay taxes in India on your income earned in Dubai between May 2022 and June 2024. Here's why:

• No income tax in Dubai: The United Arab Emirates (UAE), which includes Dubai, does not levy personal income tax on its residents or even foreign nationals living there.
• India-UAE Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA): India and UAE have a DTAA in place. This agreement prevents double taxation on the same income earned in both countries.
• NRIs and Indian taxation: Since you're working in Dubai, you're likely considered a Non-Resident Indian (NRI) for Indian tax purposes. NRIs generally don't pay Indian income tax on income earned outside India.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Indian income: This benefit applies only to your income earned in Dubai. If you have any income sources in India (rental income, investments etc.), you might need to pay taxes on those in India.
• Residential status: Your residential status for tax purposes is determined by various factors like stay duration in India. It's best to consult a tax advisor if your situation regarding residential status is unclear.

For a more definitive answer, consulting a chartered accountant or tax advisor specialising in NRI taxation is recommended. They can assess your specific situation and provide personalized advice.

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Moneywize

Moneywize   |174 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on Aug 20, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 17, 2024Hindi
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I am working in Nigeria as an employee in a mechanical engineering firm since last 2022 and gaining salary. I have decided to return to India in December 2024. Will I have to pay tax on returning to India?
Ans: Tax Implications on Returning to India from Nigeria

Understanding Your Tax Residency

The primary factor determining your tax liability upon returning to India is your residential status.

• Non-Resident Indian (NRI): If you stay outside India for more than 182 days in a financial year, you're generally considered an NRI. Income earned outside India is typically not taxable in India.
• Resident but Not Ordinarily Resident (RNOR): You might fall into this category if you meet certain conditions regarding your stay in India in the past four years.
• Resident and Ordinarily Resident (ROR): If you've stayed in India for more than 182 days in the current financial year and at least 365 days in the previous four years, you're generally considered ROR. Your global income is taxable in India.

Potential Tax Implications

1. Income Earned in Nigeria:

• If you're an NRI when you return, income earned in Nigeria is generally not taxable in India.
• If you become ROR, your entire global income, including income earned in Nigeria, becomes taxable in India. However, you might be eligible for foreign tax credits to avoid double taxation.

2. Foreign Assets:

• You might need to disclose foreign assets and income in your Indian tax return.
• Specific reporting requirements and thresholds apply.

3. Repatriation of Funds:

There might be restrictions or reporting requirements for bringing foreign currency into India.

Important Considerations

• Tax Treaties: India has tax treaties with several countries, including some African nations. These treaties can impact your tax liability.
• Proof of Stay: Maintaining records of your stay in Nigeria, such as visa stamps, flight tickets, and accommodation details, is crucial for tax purposes.
• Professional Advice: Given the complexities involved, consulting with a tax professional is highly recommended to ensure compliance and minimise tax liabilities.

To determine your exact tax obligations, you should provide more details about:

• Your specific stay periods in India and Nigeria
• Nature of your income in Nigeria
• Amount of funds you plan to repatriate
• Any assets or investments held outside India

By gathering this information and consulting with a tax expert, you can effectively plan your tax affairs and avoid potential issues upon your return to India.

Disclaimer: While I can provide general information, it's crucial to consult with a tax professional for personalised advice based on your specific financial situation. Tax laws can be complex and subject to change.

..Read more

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7014 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 13, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 12, 2024Hindi
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I am investing 100000 every month as SIP and 50000 annually. My present SIP Corpus is nearly 2Cr. How much is expected to be the total corpus in 2030 if I manage to continue the same investment model.
Ans: I appreciate your consistent commitment to investing. Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) and annual investments are powerful tools to build substantial wealth over the long term. Your current SIP portfolio is already impressive, and with continued discipline, you are well on your way to achieving significant financial goals by 2030.

Below, I will offer a detailed breakdown of your current investment strategy and provide an in-depth assessment to project where your portfolio could potentially reach by 2030. Additionally, I will share some insights on how you can maximise your investment returns while keeping your tax efficiency in mind.

Let’s explore the factors that will influence your future corpus.

1. Current Investment Strategy: A Strong Foundation
You are currently investing Rs 1,00,000 monthly through SIPs and an additional Rs 50,000 annually.

Your present SIP corpus stands at Rs 2 Crore, which shows your disciplined approach.

Continuing this strategy till 2030 will be highly beneficial, given the power of compounding over time.

The consistent monthly SIP ensures rupee cost averaging, reducing market volatility impact.

2. Estimated Growth of Your SIP Corpus by 2030
Assuming you continue with Rs 1,00,000 monthly SIP and Rs 50,000 annually, your investments will grow significantly.

The market’s historical average returns for equity mutual funds can range between 10% to 15% per annum. However, actual returns can vary due to market conditions.

Compounding will exponentially boost your returns, especially if you remain invested without withdrawals.

By 2030, your SIP portfolio can potentially cross Rs 6 Crore, given stable market conditions.

This estimate considers a conservative growth rate. However, equity markets have been known to outperform during bullish periods.

3. Active Fund Management: The Better Choice
Many investors lean towards index funds, but actively managed funds often outperform in the Indian context.

Active funds have skilled fund managers who adjust portfolios based on market dynamics.

They can exploit opportunities in specific sectors and stocks to generate alpha over benchmarks.

Index funds, while low-cost, are purely passive. They mirror indices without considering market trends.

Actively managed funds may have higher expense ratios, but the potential for superior returns justifies the cost.

Especially in volatile or uncertain markets, active fund management can make a substantial difference.

4. Investing Through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD)
Direct funds may seem cost-effective as they have lower expense ratios. However, they lack professional guidance.

Regular funds, managed through an MFD with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) credential, offer holistic support.

An MFD can help you align your investments with your financial goals, provide tax planning, and adjust your portfolio as needed.

Regular reviews by an MFD ensure your portfolio is optimised for changing market conditions.

Direct funds require you to track performance, handle documentation, and monitor taxation—all on your own.

Engaging with a Certified Financial Planner through MFDs helps you focus on strategy, not execution.

5. Tax Implications: Managing Your Gains Efficiently
The recent tax changes impact equity mutual funds’ gains. Long-term capital gains (LTCG) over Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.

Short-term gains (STCG) are taxed at 20%, while debt funds’ gains are taxed as per your income slab.

Efficient tax planning is crucial. Consult with your CFP to time redemptions and optimise tax liabilities.

Regular fund investments offer better tax management compared to direct funds, given the advisory support.

6. Market Volatility and Economic Factors
While investing in equity funds, market volatility is a reality. However, the long-term growth potential outweighs short-term fluctuations.

SIPs protect your investments from timing the market. Rupee cost averaging ensures that you buy more units when prices are low.

Focus on staying invested even during market downturns. History shows markets rebound, and long-term investors benefit the most.

With India's economic growth prospects, equity funds have the potential to deliver strong returns in the coming years.

7. Diversification and Portfolio Rebalancing
Continue diversifying within mutual funds to reduce concentration risk.

Allocate your SIPs across large-cap, mid-cap, and multi-cap funds for a balanced approach.

Rebalance your portfolio annually with your Certified Financial Planner to align with changing market conditions.

Consider thematic or sectoral funds cautiously, as they carry higher risks.

Reinvest dividends and gains to harness compounding benefits further.

8. Emergency Fund and Liquidity Considerations
Maintain a separate emergency fund to cover at least 6 months of expenses. This will prevent premature withdrawals from your SIPs.

Avoid liquidating your investments for short-term needs. Instead, use other sources like fixed deposits or liquid funds.

9. Aligning Investments with Financial Goals
Define clear goals, such as retirement planning, children’s education, or buying a property.

Each goal requires a tailored investment approach. For instance, retirement planning should focus on growth funds.

Engage with your Certified Financial Planner for goal-based investment planning.

Long-term SIPs work best when aligned with specific objectives, ensuring a disciplined approach.

10. Tracking and Monitoring Your Investments
Review your portfolio semi-annually to ensure it’s performing as expected.

Monitor fund performance and exit underperformers if needed, based on your Certified Financial Planner’s advice.

Keep an eye on changes in taxation rules and market regulations that could impact your returns.

Ensure your SIPs continue automatically. If cash flows change, adjust SIP amounts accordingly.

Finally: Staying Committed to Your Financial Journey
The journey to Rs 6 Crore or beyond is achievable with consistency.

Avoid impulsive decisions based on short-term market movements.

Keep your focus on the long-term horizon and stick to your investment plan.

Seek periodic advice from your Certified Financial Planner to stay on track.

The discipline and patience you’ve shown so far are commendable. Continue this momentum.

By following these strategies, your SIP investments can help you achieve significant financial milestones by 2030 and beyond.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

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