Neutral impactEconomy
Can you inherit ancestral family property in India after becoming an NRI? Know rules
Mint 1 hr ago·25 Sept 2026, 2:15 am
Indian citizens who move abroad, known as Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), retain their legal rights to inherit property within India. This applies to both movable and immovable assets, such as residential or commercial real estate, received from a resident or another NRI. The inheritance process is governed by the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), which permits NRIs to receive such assets without seeking prior approval from the Reserve Bank of India.
While NRIs can freely hold and inherit property, there are specific restrictions on selling certain types of land. For instance, agricultural land, plantation property, and farmhouses cannot be sold to Indian residents. These assets can only be transferred to another NRI or a person who is a citizen of India. This rule is designed to protect agricultural resources from being transferred to non-farming individuals.
For investors, understanding these inheritance rules is crucial for estate planning. It ensures that assets can be passed down smoothly to future generations without facing legal hurdles. It is advisable to consult with a legal expert to navigate the documentation and compliance requirements involved in inheriting and managing such properties.
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