Settle in Kerala from France - Complete NRI Return Guide 2026

Settle in Kerala from France — Complete NRI Return Guide 2026

Planning to return to Kerala from France? This guide covers financial planning, property, business setup, tax implications, and family relocation for France-based Keralites.

France to Kerala — Key Steps

  1. Exit planning: Resign, collect retraite (pension), file radiation des listes électorales
  2. Repatriate funds: Wire transfer to NRE account — FEMA allows unlimited repatriation
  3. Sort property: NRI Home Loan up to ₹10 Crores
  4. Ship goods: Sea freight from Le Havre/Marseille + TR customs exemption
  5. Update status: Notify banks, update Aadhaar, file ITR + French tax exit return
  6. Start business: Register entity and apply for funding

France-Specific Considerations

  • French pension (retraite): Contributions portable — can claim from eligible age even after leaving France
  • Tax residency exit: Notify French tax authority (Direction Générale des Finances Publiques) of departure
  • France-India DTAA: Double Tax Avoidance Agreement prevents double taxation
  • Carte de résident (PR): Lapses after 3 years of continuous absence
  • OCI card: Apply if not already held — no visa required for India visits
  • French driving licence: Valid in India for 1 year; convert to Indian licence thereafter

Property Finance

Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only. French tax, immigration, and FEMA regulations are subject to change. Consult qualified French and Indian legal, financial, and tax advisors. Blueberry FM is a financial services facilitator, not a legal or tax advisor. RBI · FEMA · ASCI compliant.