Q883. Eligibility for Reduced Customs Duty in India under Transfer of Residency Rules

Question: Hi Sir/madam, I am Indian citizen currently in Europe ( Latvia ) for 3 years in Temporary Residence permit. This type of visa enables me to work and Study at the same time. This year I am intending to move some of the household items to India , as I will be renting a new apartment in different city .I would like to take out all the items which from my previous apartment and move it to india as i could still use it in India , I heard about the Transfer of Residence option to bring some items to India. Would you be able to help me if i am eligible for this option in this case? Items planning to move includes , 1- Some household cutlery and porcelain plates. 2- Used furnitures and interior decoratives. 3- wall clocks and table clocks 4- cabinets , bookshelfs and other wooden furnitures. All are used . i would like to know if i am eligible for this option. Please revert and feel free let me know for any help. Alex Thomas

Answer: Not sure from your email whether you are in Europe on a three year temporary resident permit or if you have already stayed abroad for three years! This is important because transfer of residence is only allowed if the person availing duty free exemptions has stayed abroad for minimum of two years. In case you have stayed abroad for two years then you would qualify as someone who is entitled to use the Transfer of Residence facility to claim duty exemptions in India. Detailed information on Transfer of Residence rules is provided on NRI Information in an article with the title ‘TRANSFER OF RESIDENCE TO INDIA - CUSTOMS DUTIES IN INDIA’ to read the article use the link provided below: