TF-15CA15CBIncome Tax Returns

15CA/15CB Filing (Foreign Remittance)

By G R Hari2 min read

Quick Answer

15CA/15CB Filing (Foreign Remittance) India is a mandatory compliance requirement under the Income Tax Act, 1961 for any person making a remittance to a non-resident. The process involves obtaining a certificate from a Chartered Accountant (Form 15CB) and filing Form 15CA online.

15CA/15CB Filing (Foreign Remittance) — detailed explanation below

Governing Act — 15CA/15CB Filing (Foreign Remittance) India

The requirement for 15CA/15CB filing is governed by the Income Tax Act, 1961, specifically under Rule 37BB of the Income Tax Rules, 1962. The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has prescribed these forms to monitor foreign remittances and ensure tax compliance.


Government Department & Website for 15CA/15CB Filing (Foreign Remittance) India

The Income Tax Department of India administers the 15CA/15CB filing process. The online portal for filing is the Income Tax e-filing website at www.incometax.gov.in. The form 15CA is submitted electronically, while form 15CB is issued by a Chartered Accountant.


15CA/15CB Filing (Foreign Remittance) India Application Process

The process for 15CA/15CB filing involves the following steps:

  1. Determine the nature of remittance and the applicable tax provisions.
  2. Obtain Form 15CB from a Chartered Accountant, who verifies the tax compliance.
  3. Log in to the Income Tax e-filing portal and fill Form 15CA online.
  4. Submit the form and obtain the acknowledgment.
  5. The remittance can then be made through an authorized dealer (bank).

Key Forms Required for 15CA/15CB Filing (Foreign Remittance) India

The key forms are:

  • Form 15CA: A declaration to be filed online by the remitter.
  • Form 15CB: A certificate from a Chartered Accountant certifying tax compliance.
  • Form 15CA Part A/B/C/D: Different parts based on the nature and amount of remittance.

Eligibility Criteria for 15CA/15CB Filing (Foreign Remittance) India

Any person (individual, company, firm, etc.) making a remittance to a non-resident is required to file Form 15CA. However, certain remittances are exempt, such as those below Rs. 5 lakh in a financial year (for certain purposes) or remittances that are not chargeable to tax. The remitter must have a valid PAN and be registered on the Income Tax e-filing portal.


Timeline for 15CA/15CB Filing (Foreign Remittance) India

The timeline for 15CA/15CB filing depends on the complexity of the remittance. Generally, the process can be completed within a few days once the necessary documents are provided. However, no specific timeline is prescribed by law.


Fees for 15CA/15CB Filing (Foreign Remittance) India

The government-prescribed fees for 15CA/15CB filing are as follows:

ServiceFee (INR)
Form 15CA filing (online)Nil
Form 15CB certification by CAAs per CA's professional charges

Note: The CA's fees are not regulated by the government and may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is 15CA/15CB Filing (Foreign Remittance) India?

15CA/15CB Filing (Foreign Remittance) India is a compliance requirement under the Income Tax Act for any remittance to a non-resident. Form 15CA is an online declaration, and Form 15CB is a certificate from a Chartered Accountant.

Who needs to file 15CA/15CB for foreign remittance in India?

Any person making a remittance to a non-resident, except for certain exempted categories, must file 15CA/15CB. This includes individuals, companies, and firms.

What is the difference between Form 15CA and Form 15CB in tax filing?

Form 15CA is an online declaration filed by the remitter, while Form 15CB is a certificate issued by a Chartered Accountant confirming tax compliance. Both are required for most foreign remittances.

Is 15CA/15CB filing required for all foreign remittances in India?

No, certain remittances are exempt, such as those below Rs. 5 lakh in a financial year for specified purposes, or remittances that are not chargeable to tax. However, most remittances require compliance.

What are the penalties for non-compliance with 15CA/15CB filing in India?

Non-compliance may result in penalties under the Income Tax Act, including a penalty of up to Rs. 1 lakh for failure to file Form 15CA. Additionally, the remittance may be delayed or rejected by the bank.