Short-term vs long-term
Listed equity is long-term after 12 months; property, gold and unlisted shares after 24 months. Short-term gains on listed equity are taxed at 20%; other short-term gains at slab rates.
Current rates (transfers after 23 July 2024)
Long-term gains on listed equity above ₹1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%; long-term gains on property and other assets at 12.5% without indexation (a grandfathering option may apply to some resident taxpayers). Use the calculator.
Exemptions and reinvestment
Sections 54, 54EC and 54F allow reinvestment-based exemptions subject to conditions and time limits. Plan before the sale, not after.
NRI withholding
NRIs face TDS under section 195 and often need a lower deduction certificate: see NRI property sale guide.
Reporting and carry-forward
Report all gains in the right ITR form and file on time to carry forward losses. See capital gains on property and shares.
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All articles in this guide (5)
NRI Property Sale in Chennai: TDS, Capital Gains and Repatriation
Chennai flats and plots held by NRIs in the Gulf, US and Singapore are frequently sold, bringing TDS and repatriation questions.
NRI Selling Property in India: Tax, TDS, Lower Deduction and Repatriation
Everything an NRI should know before selling property in India: capital gains, 195 TDS, Form 13, 54/54EC exemptions and repatriating funds.
NRI Property Sale in Kochi (Ernakulam): TDS, Capital Gains and Repatriation
Flats and land in Kochi are popular NRI investments. Selling them requires careful TDS planning because buyers deduct tax on the NRI's behalf.
Capital Gains Tax on Property, Shares and Mutual Funds in India
Long-term vs short-term gains, current rates and exemptions for property, listed shares and mutual funds.
Selling Property in Thiruvananthapuram as an NRI: Tax, TDS and Repatriation
Many NRKs from the Gulf, UK and US hold land or flats in Thiruvananthapuram and sell them while abroad. The tax and TDS process is the same everywhere, but...
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Frequently asked questions
What is the capital gains tax on selling a house?
Long-term gains (held over 24 months) are generally taxed at 12.5%; short-term gains at slab rates, with surcharge and cess.
Can I avoid capital gains tax on property?
You can reduce it through reinvestment exemptions such as section 54 if conditions are met.
Is there capital gains tax on shares?
Yes. Short-term 20% and long-term 12.5% above ₹1.25 lakh for listed equity.