OCI Cardholder Buying Property in India: What’s Allowed
Last verified: June 2026. Property, NRI and FEMA rules vary by state and change over time — confirm current rules with the relevant authority or a qualified professional before acting. General information, not legal or financial advice.
If you hold an OCI card, you enjoy most property rights an NRI has — you can buy a home in India, with a few clear exceptions.
What an OCI cardholder can buy
OCI cardholders are treated on par with NRIs. You can buy residential and commercial property, hold it, let it out and sell it under FEMA — no RBI permission for ordinary purchases.
What is NOT allowed
OCIs and NRIs cannot purchase agricultural land, plantation property or a farmhouse — these can generally only be acquired by inheritance.
How to fund the purchase
Pay through normal banking channels — inward remittance or your NRE/NRO/FCNR accounts. You can also take an NRI/OCI home loan.
Repatriation of sale proceeds
Residential sale proceeds can be repatriated subject to FEMA limits (broadly up to two residential properties, and within the USD 1 million/year NRO route, after taxes), depending on how the purchase was funded. Take advice for large transactions; see repatriating funds.
Documentation and tax
Keep your OCI card, passport, PAN and proof of funds. On sale, TDS for NRI/OCI sellers (often under Section 195) and capital-gains tax apply. A Power of Attorney helps if you’re abroad.
FAQs
Can an OCI cardholder buy property in India?
Yes — residential and commercial property, on par with NRIs, without RBI permission for ordinary purchases.
Can OCIs buy agricultural land?
No — agricultural land, farmhouses and plantations can generally only be inherited.
How should an OCI pay?
Through inward remittance or NRE/NRO/FCNR accounts; an NRI/OCI home loan is also available.
Can sale proceeds be sent abroad?
Yes, within FEMA limits and after taxes, depending on how the purchase was funded.
