Why it's a good idea for expats to file income tax returns in India

Even with no income in India, NRIs can benefit by filing tax returns this year

- BY JUSTIN VARGHESE

Let’s be honest — filing taxes in India might be the last thing on your mind when you’re working in the UAE.

But if you’re an Indian living here with any kind of connection back home — like a flat, a bank account, or investments — chances are, you may need to file a tax return in India this year.

Even if you don’t owe any tax, it might still make sense to file. Let’s break it down in the easiest way possible — who needs to file, why it helps, and how to do it online from your sofa in Dubai.

Do I really need to file Indian tax return?

If you’re earning only in the UAE and have no income in India, the answer is: No, not legally required.

But if you have even one of the below, then yes — you probably do:

■ You earn rent from property in India

■ You have interest income from an NRO account

■ You made capital gains from selling property, shares, or mutual funds

■ You want to claim a refund of tax deducted in India (TDS)

■ You want to carry forward investment losses to the next year