1. BASICS

The Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 (FEMA) deals with cross border investments, foreign exchange transactions and transactions between residents and non-residents. It has come into force from June 1, 2000.

The operation of FEMA is akin to any other commercial law. However as compared to most other commercial laws FEMA is one of the smallest, having only 49 Sections. If guidelines, rules etc. are followed, the person can undertake most transactions without any approvals. If proposed transactions fall outside the guidelines, one will have to obtain necessary prior approvals. The consequence of any violation is a penalty. If penalty is not paid within the specified time, then there can be prosecution.

FEMA extends to the whole of India. It also applies to all branches, offices and agencies outside India, which are owned or controlled by a person resident in India.

2. IMPORTANT TERMS UNDER FEMA – Section 2

2.1 Capital Account Transaction means a transaction which:

• Alters foreign assets and foreign liabilities (including contingent liabilities) of Indian residents.

• Alters Indian assets and Indian liabilities of Non-residents.

• Is a Specified transaction listed in section 6(3).

Essentially this is an economic definition and not an accounting or legal definition. It is intended to cover cross border investments, cross border loans and transfer of wealth across borders. RBI has been empowered to regulate capital account transactions. Unless the transaction is permitted as per regulations, Foreign Exchange (FX) cannot be drawn for the same.

Capital account transactions though liberalised to a great extent, continue to be regulated by RBI. Unless RBI permits by way of notifications and rules or specific approvals, transactions cannot be undertaken. But there are two very important purposes for which RBI cannot impose any restrictions viz:

1. Drawing of foreign exchange for the repayment of any loans and;

2. For replenishing depreciation of direct investments in the ordinary course of business. (Section 6)

2.2 Current Account Transaction means all transactions, which are not capital account transactions. Specifically it includes:

• Business transactions between residents and non-residents.

• Short-term banking and credit facilities in the ordinary course of business.

• Payments towards interest on loans and by way of income from investments.

• Payment of expenses of parents, spouse or children living abroad or expenses on their foreign travel, medical and education.

• Scholarships / Chairs, etc.

Primarily there are no restrictions on current account transactions. A person may sell or draw foreign exchange freely for his current account transactions, except in a few cases where limits have been prescribed (Section 5). The Central Government has the power to regulate current account transactions. Unless the transaction is restricted, FX can be drawn for the same.

See paragraph 7 for more details on current account transactions.

2.3 Person includes:

1.  an individual

2. a Hindu Undivided Family (HUF)

3. a Company

4. a firm

5. an association of persons or body of individuals, whether incorporated or not

6. every artificial judicial person not falling in any of the above sub-clauses, and

7. any agency, office or branch owned or controlled by such person.

2.4 Resident / Non-Resident: If an individual stays in India for more than 182 days during the course of the preceding financial year, he will be treated as a person resident in India. There are a few exceptions as under:

• If a person goes/stays outside India for (a) taking up employment, or (b) carrying on business or vocation, or (c) for any other purpose for an uncertain period; he will be treated as a person resident outside India (non-resident). (It has been clarified that students going abroad for further studies will be regarded as non-residents).

• If a person who is residing abroad comes to/stays in India only for (a) taking up employment, or (b) carrying on business or vocation, or (c) for any other purpose for an uncertain period; he will be treated as a person resident in India.

The term financial year means a twelve-month period beginning from April 1 and ending on March 31 next.

Following persons (other than individuals) will be treated as person resident in India:

• Person or body corporate which is registered or incorporated in India.

• An office, branch or agency in India, even if it is owned or controlled by a person resident outside India.

• An office, branch or agency outside India, if it is owned or controlled by a person resident in India.

The definition is however inadequate to define residential status of a firm, an HUF, a trust or any entity which does not have to be registered.

Conversely, a non resident means a person who is not a resident in India.

3. IMPORTANT FEATURES

3.1 All dealings in foreign exchange or foreign security can be done only through an authorised person if permitted by FEMA, rules & regulations framed thereunder, or by general or special permission of the RBI. Further no payments can be made by a resident to a non-resident unless permitted under FEMA (section 3).

3.2 Holdings / surrender of foreign currency, etc. (sections 4, 8 & 9) – Persons resident in India are primarily prohibited from acquiring, holding, owning, possessing, etc. any foreign exchange, foreign security or immovable property outside India. Also they are required to repatriate and bring to India all foreign exchange that is due to or accrued to them and deposit the same in the bank account. However they are permitted to hold foreign coins without any limit, and foreign currency notes and travellers’ cheques up to US $ 2,000 or equivalent foreign currency. The foreign exchange received has to be surrendered to the authorised dealer within the prescribed time limit as mentioned below:

3.3 Residents have been allowed to maintain foreign currency accounts in India as under:

3.3.1 EEFC ACCOUNT

A person is permitted to credit the undermentioned amounts out of his foreign exchange earnings to his EEFC Account:

** Professionals mean Director on Board of overseas company; Scientist/Professor in Indian University/Institution; Economist; Lawyer; Doctor; Architect; Engineer; Artist; Cost/Chartered Account; Any other person rendering professional services in his individual capacity, as may be specified by the Reserve Bank from time to time. Professional earnings including director's fees, consultancy fees, lecture fees, honorarium and similar other earnings received by a professional by rendering services in his individual capacity.

However, amounts received as inward remittances on account of foreign currency loan or investments received from outside India or to meet specific obligations of the account holder cannot be credited (e.g. equity investment from a non-resident investor). The balances do not earn any interest.

These funds can be used for several current account purposes. For many transactions, where there are restrictions under the current account rules, funds in EEFC account can be used without restrictions. However, EEFC account holders are permitted to purchase foreign exchange only after utilising fully the available balances in the EEFC accounts.

Individuals can open EEFC account jointly with any of their ‘close relative’ on ‘former or survivor basis’ but the joint relative cannot operate the account.

Note: Until further notice the sum total of the accruals in the account during a calendar month have to be converted into Rupees on or before the last day of the succeeding calendar month after adjusting for utilisation of the balances for approved purposes or forward commitments. It is further to be noted that EEFC account holders can access the forex market for purchasing foreign exchange only after utilising fully the available balances in the EEFC accounts.

3.3.2 Units in SEZ are permitted to open, hold and maintain a Foreign Currency Account with an authorised dealer in India.

3.3.3 RESIDENT FOREIGN CURRENCY (DOMESTIC) ACCOUNT – RFC(D) A/c

A person resident in India can open, hold and maintain a Resident Foreign Currency (Domestic) Account and credit the account with foreign exchange in the form of currency notes, bank notes and travelers cheques:

1. Acquired by him while on a visit to any place outside India by way of payment of services not arising from any business in or anything done in India; or

2. Acquired by him, from any person not resident in India and who is on a visit to India, as honorarium or gift or for services rendered or in settlement of any lawful obligation; or

3. Acquired by him by way of honorarium or gift while on a visit to any place outside India; or

4. Representing the unspent amount of foreign exchange acquired by him from an authorised person for travel abroad; or

5. Earned by way of export of goods/services, royalty, honorarium, etc.; or

6. Received by way of gift from close relatives (as defined under the Companies Act, 1956); or

7. By way of sale proceeds of shares offered for conversion to ADR/GDR, where such conversion is approved by the FIPB; or

8. Proceeds of insurance policies settled in foreign currency.

Balances in this account do not earn interest.

Balances in the account can be used for all permitted current account transactions. There is an overlap between EEFC A/c and RFC (domestic) account. Both accounts are available for similar purposes. However, relaxations which are there for RFC (D) Account are not there for EEFC account.

Note: Until further notice the sum total of the accruals in the account during a calendar month have to be converted into Rupees on or before the last day of the succeeding calendar month after adjusting for utilisation of the balances for approved purposes or forward commitments. It is further to be noted that RFC (D) account holders can access the forex market for purchasing foreign exchange only after utilising fully the available balances in the RFC(D) accounts.

3.3.4 RESIDENT FOREIGN CURRENCY ACCOUNT – RFC A/c

Resident Indians can also open RFC account. This account is different from RFC (D) account. This account is primarily for non-residents who return to India. In RFC A/c, following items can be deposited:

1. Pension or any other superannuation or other monetary benefits from employer outside India.

2. Amount received on conversion of the assets if those assets were acquired when such person was a non-resident.

3. Amount received as gift or inheritance from a person who was a non-resident and has become a resident.

4. Proceeds of insurance policies settled in foreign currency that is issued by Insurance Companies in India.

FE acquired or received before 4th July 1947 or income held outside India in pursuance of general/special permission of RBI.

There are no restrictions on use of funds. They can be used for meeting expenses and making investments abroad.

3.3.5 BANK ACCOUNT OUTSIDE INDIA OF EMPLOYEES OF FOREIGN COMPANIES ON DEPUTATION IN INDIA

Employees of foreign companies (either foreign nationals or Indian nationals ) who are on deputation in India are permitted to open, hold and maintain a foreign currency account outside India and remit the whole salary received in India to the said account provided appropriate Income-tax has been paid on the same. Also citizen of foreign state being employee of a company incorporated in India.

3.3.6 FOREIGN CURRENCY ACCOUNT OF PROJECT / SERVICE EXPORTER

Exporters of projects/services are permitted to open, hold and maintain foreign currency bank accounts either in India or abroad for each project under execution abroad.

3.3.7 FOREIGN CURRENCY ACCOUNTS BY SHIP-MANNING / CREW-MANAGEMENT AGENCIES

Ship manning/crew managing agencies rendering services to shipping companies incorporated outside India can open and maintain non-interest bearing foreign currency accounts in India, till the validity period of their agreement, for the purpose of undertaking transactions in the ordinary course of their business.

3.3.8 US $ ACCOUNTS OF GEM & JEWELLERY ENTITIES

Certain firms and companies dealing in purchase / sale of rough or cut and polished diamonds / precious metal jewellery plain, minakari and / or studded with / without diamond and / or other stones, with a track record of at least 2 years in import / export of diamonds / coloured gemstones / diamond and coloured gemstones studded jewellery / plain gold jewellery, and having an average annual turnover of Rs 3 crore or above during preceding three licensing years, are allowed to open and maintain non-interest bearing Diamond Dollar Accounts (DDA) in US $.

Note: Until further notice the sum total of the accruals in the account during a calendar month have to be converted into Rupees on or before the last day of the succeeding calendar month after adjusting for utilisation of the balances for approved purposes or forward commitments. It is further to be noted that the account holders can access the forex market for purchasing foreign exchange only after utilising fully the available balances in their DDA.

3.3.9 FOREIGN CURRENCY ACCOUNT OF INDIAN PARTY

An Indian party is permitted to open, hold and maintain a Foreign Currency Account (FCA) abroad for the purpose of overseas direct investments (ODI) if the host country Regulations stipulate that investments into the country must be routed through a designated account in that country. This account can be used only for overseas investments in JV / WOS under ODI and receipt of entitlements from such investments. Normal procedure for repatriation of investment income and closure of bank account upon divestment will apply.

3.4 Any passenger bringing in foreign exchange on his arrival in India in the form of currency notes, bank notes or travellers cheques exceeding US $ 10,000 or its equivalent and / or the value of foreign currency notes exceeding US $ 5,000 or its equivalent is required to file a declaration in Form CDF with the Custom Authorities.

3.5 An Indian entity opening a Branch / Representative / Liaison Office outside India is allowed to remit, subject to certain terms and conditions, as under:

1. For Initial Expenses – Up to 15% of its average annual sales / income or turnover during the last two accounting years or up to 25 % of net worth, whichever is higher.

2. For Recurring Expenses – Up to 10% of its average annual sales / income or turnover during the last two accounting years.

The overseas office is also permitted to acquire immovable property outside India for its business and for residential purpose of its staff out of the above remittances.

4. CONTRAVENTION, PENALTIES & APPEALS Sections 13 To 35

4.1 Penalties for contraventions under FEMA are per se monetary in nature. If any person contravenes any provisions, rules, regulations, etc. the penalty imposed may be 3 times the amount involved in contravention; and if the amount of contravention is not ascertainable, penalty can be up to
` 200,000. If the contravention is a continuing one, a penalty up to ` 5,000 per day may be imposed for every day after the 1st day during which the contravention continues.

4.2 The adjudicating officer may also confiscate any currency, security or property in addition to imposing penalty.

4.3 If a person does not pay up the penalty within 90 days, he is liable for civil imprisonment.

4.4 There is a right to appeal given at every stage and an appeal against an order of the Adjudicating Authority can be made to the Special Director (Appeals). An appeal against the order of the Special Director (Appeals) can be made to the Appellate Tribunal. An appeal, on questions of Law, against the order of the Appellate Tribunal can be made to the High Court.

4.5 A person preferring an appeal to the Special Director (Appeals) or the Appellate Tribunal can take assistance of a Chartered Accountant or Legal Practitioner.

5. DIRECTORATE OF ENFORCEMENT – Sections 36 To 38

5.1 The officers of the Directorate have powers to investigate contraventions referred to in section 13.

5.2 The powers and limitations of these Officers are the same as those conferred on Income-tax Authorities under the Income-tax Act, 1961.

6. COMPOUNDING OF CONTRAVENTIONS

Powers for compounding of offences – RBI has been given powers for compounding all cases of contraventions other than cases under section 3(a) of FEMA. Cases of contravention under section 3(a) relate to dealing in or transfer of foreign exchange and foreign security to any person other than an authorised dealer. For these, Enforcement Directorate will be responsible. Powers of compounding with RBI should give confidence to public.

Depending on the amount involved, various officers have been designated to look into applications for compounding. The compounding authority can call for any information, record or any other documents relevant to the compounding proceedings. The compounding authority is required to pass an order within 180 days from the date of application. The sum for which the contravention is compounded has to be paid within 15 days from the date of order of compounding.

The Regional Offices of the Reserve Bank of India have now been delegated powers, up to certain limits (present limit being violations involving amounts not exceeding Rs. 1 crore), to compound the contraventions of FEMA involving (i) delay in reporting of inward remittance, (ii) delay in filing of form FC-GPR after allotment of shares and (iii) delay in issue of shares beyond 180 days. However, Regional Offices in Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata & Chennai can entertain compounding applications without any monetary limit.

RBI has clarified that whenever a contravention is identified by it (i.e. RBI) or brought to its notice by the entity involved in contravention by way of a reference other than through the prescribed application for compounding, the Bank will continue to decide (i) whether a contravention is technical and/or minor in nature and, as such, can be dealt with by way of an administrative/cautionary advice; (ii) whether it is material and, hence, is required to be compounded for which the necessary compounding procedure has to be followed or (iii) whether the issues involved are sensitive/serious in nature and, therefore, need to be referred to the Directorate of Enforcement (DOE). However, once a compounding application is filed by the concerned entity suo motu, admitting the contravention, the same will not be considered as ‘technical’ or ‘minor’ in nature and the compounding process shall be initiated as per procedure.

7. PERMISSIBLE TRANSACTIONS BY RESIDENTS

7.1 CURRENT ACCOUNT TRANSACTIONS (See para 2.2 for meaning)

Unless the transaction falls within the below-mentioned restrictions, FX can be drawn for the same without any limit.

Broad categories of current account transactions can be classified as under:

1. Transactions for which FX withdrawal is totally prohibited such as payment for lotteries, transactions with residents of Nepal and Bhutan, etc.

2. Transactions for which FX can be withdrawn only with prior approval of Government, such as specified transactions by PSUs, lumpsum knowhow payments exceeding US $ 2 million, etc. However payments from EEFC, RFC (D) and RFC A/c do not require any approval.

3. Transactions for which FX can be withdrawn only with prior approval of Government even if payment is made from EEFC A/c.

4. Transactions for which FX can be withdrawn only with prior approval of RBI such as FX for business travel exceeding US $ 25,000, etc. However, payments from EEFC, RFC (D) and RFC A/c do not require any approval.

5. Transactions for which FX can be withdrawn only with prior approval of RBI even if payment is made from EEFC A/c.

Residents are permitted to remit US $ 200,000 for any current and capital account purpose (except those transactions which are prohibited altogether – refer paragraph A below), without any limit. (See para 7.2.6 below for further details on investments abroad by Individuals).

The details of restrictions on Current Account Transactions are as follows:

A. Payments or withdrawal of FX for following purposes are totally prohibited:

1. Travel to Nepal and Bhutan.

2. Transactions with a person resident in Nepal and Bhutan.

3. Remittance out of lottery winnings.

4. Remittance of income from racing/riding, etc. or any other hobby.

5. Remittance for purchase of lottery tickets, banned/ proscribed magazines, football pools, sweepstakes, etc.

6. Payment of commission on exports made towards equity investment in Joint Ventures/Wholly Owned Subsidiaries abroad of Indian companies.

7. Payment of commission on exports under Rupee State Credit Route, except commission up to 10% of invoice value of exports of tea and tobacco.

8. Payment related to “Call Back Services” of telephones.

9. Remittance of interest income on funds held in NRSR Scheme Account.

10. Remittance towards participation in lottery schemes involving money circulation or for securing prize money /awards, etc.

B.1. The following payments will require prior approval from the Government of India, except where the payment is made from the RFC or RFC(D) or EEFC Account of the remitter:

B.2. Remittance for membership of P & I Club would require prior approval from the Ministry of Finance except where the payment is made from RFC or RFC(D) Account of the remitter.

C.1. The following payments will require prior approval of RBI, except where the payment is made from the RFC or RFC(D) or EEFC Account of the remitter:

1. Release of exchange exceeding US $ 10,000 or its equivalent in one calendar year, for one or more private visits to any country (except Nepal and Bhutan).

2. Exchange facilities exceeding US $ 100,000 for persons going abroad for employment.

3. Exchange facilities for emigration exceeding US $ 100,000 or amount prescribed by country of emigration.

4. Remittance for maintenance of close relatives abroad,

1. Exceeding the net salary (after deduction of taxes, contribution to provident fund and other deductions) of a person who is resident but not permanently resident in India and (a) is a citizen of a foreign state other than Pakistan or (b) is a citizen of India who is on deputation to the office or branch or subsidiary or joint venture in India of such foreign company.

2. Exceeding US $ 100,000 per year per recipient.

Explanation: for the purpose of this item, a person resident in India on account of his employment or deputation of a specified duration (irrespective of the length thereof) or for a specific job or assignment; the duration of which does not exceed three years, is a resident but not permanently resident.

5. Release of foreign exchange, exceeding US $ 25,000 to a person, irrespective of period of stay, for business travel, or attending a Conference or specialised training or for maintenance expenses of a patient going abroad for medical treatment or check-up abroad, or for accompanying as attendant to a patient going abroad for medical treatment/Check-up.

6. Release of exchange for meeting expenses for medical treatment abroad exceeding the estimate from the doctor in India or hospital/doctor abroad. However, an amount up to US $ 100,000 or its equivalent can be released without insisting on any estimate from a hospital / doctor.

7. Release of exchange for studies abroad exceeding the estimates from the institution abroad or US $ 100,000 per academic year, whichever is higher.

8.  a) Remittances exceeding US $ 1,000,000 per project, for any consultancy services procured from outside India.

b) Remittances exceeding US $ 10 million per project, consultancy services procured from outside India by Indian companies executing infrastructure projects.

(Comment: What is the difference between C.1 & C.2? If no difference then both can be clubbed and renumbered) – In C.2 EEFC is not considered

C.2. The following payments will require prior approval of RBI, except where the payment is made from the RFC or RFC(D) Account of the remitter: -

1. Commission to agents abroad for sale of residential flats/commercial plots in India, exceeding US $ 25,000 or 5% of the inward remittance (whichever is higher) per transaction.

2. Remittance exceeding US $ 100,000 or 5% of the investment brought into India, whichever is higher, by an entity in India by way of reimbursement of pre-incorporation expenses in India.

3. Donations in excess of US $ 5,000 by Indian corporates & non-corporates (other than individuals) – Companies, partnership firms, trusts etc.

4. Donations by Indian corporates, in exceeding 1% of the foreign exchange earnings during the previous 3 financial years or US $ 5 million, whichever is less, for

1. Creation of Chairs in reputed educational institutes.

2. Donations to funds (not being an investment fund) promoted by educational institutes.

3. Donation to technical institution or body or association in the field of activity of the donor Company.

5. Payment for purchase of Trade Mark(s)/Patent(s).

6. Remittance towards cash calls to the operator for the purpose of oil exploration in India either by credit to the foreign currency or Rupee account in India subject to the condition that the payment is made as per the production sharing agreement and the copy is available on records of the AD.

Note: Residents are permitted to remit up to US $ 25,000 or its equivalent for a current account transaction (not included in the Schedules I and II of Government Notification on Current Account Transactions) on the basis of a simple letter from the applicant containing the basic information, viz., names and the addresses of the applicant and the beneficiary, amount to be remitted and the purpose of remittance.

7.2 INVESTMENTS ABROAD BY INDIAN RESIDENTS

7.2.1 JOINT VENTURES ABROAD

Indian investments abroad in Joint Ventures (JV) and Wholly Owned Subsidiaries (WOS) are permitted by RBI.

Investments can be made under the automatic route up to 400 % of the net worth of the Indian party as on the date of the last balance sheet, in which case prior permission is not required, or the non-automatic route, in which case prior permission is required. There are various options available for investment under both the routes.

General Guidelines:

1. Indian companies and partnership firms registered under the Indian Partnership Act, 1932 are allowed to invest abroad. Unregistered Partnership Firms (except in certain cases), Proprietary Concerns (except in certain cases), HUFs, AOPs, etc. are not allowed to invest abroad. Investments can be made either directly, or through Special Purpose Vehicles (intermediate companies).

2. Registered Trusts and Societies engaged in manufacturing /educational sector or who have set up hospital(s) in India can invest in a JV/WOS outside India, in the same sector, after obtaining prior permission of RBI.

3. Investments can be made in existing companies or new companies or for acquiring overseas business.

4. The foreign entity can be engaged in any industrial, commercial, trading, agriculture, service industry, financial services such as insurance, mutual funds, etc. However, any overseas entity having equity participation directly / indirectly of Indian parties cannot offer financial products linked to Indian Rupee (e.g. non-deliverable trades involving foreign currency, rupee exchange rates, stock indices linked to Indian market, etc.) without obtaining specific approval of RBI since the Indian Rupee is currently not fully convertible and such products could have implications for the exchange rate management of the country.

5. Overseas investments in following activities are not permitted:

– Portfolio Investment by Indian parties.

– Investment in banking and real estate sectors.
 

6. Investment can be in equity, loans, or by way of guarantees. Further, these guarantees can be – corporate or personal / primary or collateral and can be given by the promoter company / group company / sister concern / associate company in India. The amount of guarantee should be specified upfront. Form ODI will have to be filed with RBI for all guarantees given. All the guarantees will be considered while computing the overall limit of 400% of the new worth.

7. Remittance can be by way of cash, or export of goods and services. For contribution by way of exports, no agency commission will be payable to the wholly owned subsidiary / Joint Venture Company.

8. Investment under automatic route will not be permitted to parties on RBI Caution List, or who have defaulted to the banking system in India and whose names appear on the Defaulter’s list.

9. Shares certificates / other documents where share certificates are not issued should be submitted within the specified time and dividends, royalties, etc. due to Indian investor should be repatriated to India in accordance with the prevailing time limits.

10.  Authorised dealers have been permitted to release FX for feasibility studies prior to actual investment.

11. Annual Performance Report (APR) in Form ODI should be submitted on or before June 30 every year for pre / post commencement of commercial operation. Audited Annual Accounts, Directors' Report of the Overseas Company are also required to be submitted. APR to be certified by the Statutory Auditors of the Indian Investor company in case the host country do not mandate audit of accounts.

12. In the event of changes proposed in the JV / WOS regarding activities, investment in another concern / subsidiary or alterations of share capital, there are reporting requirements to RBI.

13. Disinvestment can be either under the automatic route or approval route. All such proposals should be accompanied by a Chartered Accountant's valuation report.

14. Resident Indian does not need permission to accept appointment as Director on boards of overseas company or to act as Trustee of an overseas Trust. Investment in Nepal can be made in Indian Rupees only. Investment in Bhutan can be made either in freely convertible currencies or in Indian Rupees. However, if investment is made in freely convertible currencies then all dues receivable on such investments as well as their sale / winding up proceeds are required to be repatriated to India also in freely convertible currencies.

15. Regulated Entities in the Financial Services Sector who wish to invest overseas in any activity will have to comply with the conditions stipulated in Regulation 7 of Notification No. FEMA 120/RB-2004 dated July 7, 2004.

16. Unregulated Entities in the Financial Services Sector who wish to invest overseas in non-financial sector activities will have to comply with the conditions stipulated in Regulation 7 of Notification No. FEMA 120/RB-2004 dated July 7, 2004.

17. Entities setting up Branch / JV / WOS overseas for trading in Commodities Exchanges Overseas will have to obtain clearance from the Forward Markets Commission.

18. Shares held in the overseas JV / WOS can be pledged by way of security for availing fund based and / or non-fund based facilities for itself or the JV / WOS from a Bank in India or abroad.

19. Creation of charge on movable / immovable property and other financial assets of the Indian entity and their group companies allowed under approval route within the overall limit of 400% of the net worth.

20. Investment in Compulsory Convertible Preference Shares will be treated at par with equity shares.

21. An Indian party can open / hold / maintain foreign currency account abroad, subject to certain conditions, for its investment overseas.

22. An Indian Party can invest in an entity in Pakistan under the Approval Route.

INVESTMENTS ABROAD – AUTOMATIC ROUTE – IN J. V. / SUBSIDIARY

(There is only one automatic route. However further classification is made to give different possibilities.) Any investment not falling within the below mentioned guidelines will require prior permission from RBI

Note:

1. For arriving at the net worth of an Indian party, the net worth of its holding company or its subsidiary may be taken into account to the extent it (the holding / subsidiary company) has not undertaken overseas investment and has issued a letter of disclaimer in favour of the Indian party.

2. Application / intimation in all cases have to be in Form ODI.

7.2.2 INVESTMENTS BY EMPLOYEES

An employee or Director in India of an Indian office or branch of a foreign company or of a subsidiary in India of foreign company or of an Indian company in which foreign equity holding is not less than 51% (whether directly or through a SPV or step down subsidiary) may purchase equity shares without any monetary ceiling. The shares so acquired can also be repurchased by the foreign company / sold without obtaining RBI permission provided the sales proceeds are repatriated to India.

An employee or Director of the Indian promoter company of an overseas JV / WOS engaged in the field of software can purchase shares up to US $ 10,000 or its equivalent in a block of 5 calendar years. The shares so acquired should not exceed 5% of the paid-up capital of the JV / WOS. The percentage of shares held by the Indian promoter company together with the shares allotted to its employees is not less than the percentage of shares held by the Indian promoter company prior to the allotment of shares to the employees.

Further, a resident employee (including working director) of companies based in the knowledge-based sectors (information technology, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology) can purchase foreign securities under the ADR / GDR linked Employees’ Stock Option Scheme up to US $ 50,000 or its equivalent in a block of five calendar years.

7.2.3 PORTFOLIO INVESTMENTS – AUTOMATIC ROUTE

1. A listed Indian company can invest up to 50% of its net worth as on the date of its last audited balance sheet:

(i) In shares of overseas companies listed on a recognised foreign stock exchange.

(ii) In rated bonds / fixed income securities issued by above companies.
 

2.  An Indian Mutual Fund registered with SEBI can invest up to the ceiling prescribed by SEBI from time to time (the present ceiling is US $ 7 billion, in addition to this, certain qualified mutual funds can also invest in aggregate up to US $ 1 billion) in:

   (i) In shares or rated bonds / fixed income securities of an overseas company listed on a recognised stock exchange.

   (ii) Exchange Traded Funds.

   (iii) Other securities as may be permitted by RBI from time to time.

3. An Indian Venture Capital Fund registered with SEBI can invest up to US $ 500 million in equity and equity-linked investments of off-shore Venture Capital undertakings, after obtaining prior approval of SEBI.

7.2.4 INVESTMENT IN AGRICULTURAL OPERATIONS OVERSEAS

An Indian company or a partnership firm registered under the Indian Partnership Act, 1932 are permitted to undertake agricultural operations including purchase of land incidental to such activity. Investment can be made either directly (through a branch) or through an overseas subsidiary / joint venture up to 400 % of its net worth.

7.2.5 INVESTMENT BY RECOGNISED STAR EXPORTERS

A proprietary concern / unregistered partnership firm engaged in the business of exports are permitted to invest up to 10% of the average three years export realization or 200% of their net owned funds, whichever is lower after obtaining prior approval of RBI, subject to the following conditions: -

1. The exporter should have exports exceeding Rs. 15 crore per annum.

2. The exporter should be KYC compliant and must be engaged in the proposed business.

3. Export outstanding should not exceed 10% of the average export realisation of the preceding three years.

4. The exporter should not be on any caution list or RBI, etc.

Investment can be through an overseas subsidiary / joint venture. Application for approval will have to be made in Form ODI.

7.2.6 REMITTANCE UNDER THE US $ 200,000 SCHEME

An individual resident in India is permitted to remit up to US $ 200,000 per calendar year for any legal and lawful purpose without obtaining prior permission of RBI. The individual can use said facility for any current account transaction, acquisition of any movable and / or immovable property, remittance towards gift (including gift by way of credit to the NRO account in India of the overseas relative) and donation, investment in overseas companies (except incorporation of a new company) or opening of a bank account outside India. He is permitted to acquire qualification shares and shares in lieu of professional fees or directors remuneration under this scheme. Even minors are eligible under this scheme but the LRS form needs to be countersigned by the minor’s natural guardian. However, remittances cannot be made to Bhutan, Nepal, Mauritius or Pakistan or countries identified as “non co-operative countries and territories” by the Financial Action Task Force. The updated list can be seen at the website of FATF - http://www.fatf-gafi.org. An application cum declaration form is required to be filed with the AD.

7.3 ACQUISITION AND TRANSFER OF IMMOVABLE PROPERTY OUTSIDE INDIA

Immovable property outside India can be acquired by following persons:

A. INDIVIDUALS

7.4 BORROWINGS FROM NON-RESIDENTS

7.4.1 EXTERNAL COMMERCIAL BORROWINGS [ECB]

ECB is an important component of India’s overall external debt. ECB refers to commercial loans availed from non-resident lenders in the form of bank loans, buyers’ credit, suppliers’ credit, securitised instruments e.g. floating rate notes and fixed rate bonds, etc. by Corporates including hotels, hospitals, software sector with a minimum average maturity of 3 years. Further ECB can also be availed by Units in Special Economic Zones (SEZ) and certain NGO & MFI. Individuals, Trusts and Non-Profit making organisations are not eligible to raise ECB.

ECB can be availed by NGO engaged in micro finance and MFI registered as societies, trusts and cooperatives and engaged in micro finance:

1. If they have a satisfactory borrowing relationship for at least 3 years with a scheduled commercial bank authorised to deal in foreign exchange in India and

2. They would require a certificate of due diligence on `fit and proper’ status of the Board / Committee of management of the borrowing entity from the designated AD bank.

ECB can also be availed in India Rupees in certain cases.

For what can the ECB funds be used

1. Except for the prohibited activities, ECBs can be used for any bona fide business requirement such as import of capital goods, new projects, modernisation / expansion of existing production units in the real sector – industrial sector including small and medium enterprises (SME), infrastructure sector and specified service sectors, namely, hotel, hospital, software in India.

2. Utilisation of ECB proceeds is permitted in the first stage acquisition of shares in the disinvestment process and also in the mandatory second stage offer to the public under the Government’s disinvestment programme of PSU shares.

3. Utilisation of ECB proceeds is permitted for direct investment in Joint Ventures (JV) / Wholly Owned Subsidiaries (WOS) either by way of fresh investment or expansion of existing JV / WOS including for mergers and acquisitions.

4. Interest During Construction (IDC) for Indian companies which are in the infrastructure sector provided the IDC is capitalised and forms part of the project cost.

5. For lending to self-help groups or for micro-credit or for bona fide micro finance activity including capacity building by NGOs engaged in micro finance activities.

6. Payment for obtaining licence/permit for Spectrum allocation.

7. Infrastructure Finance Companies (IFC) are permitted to avail of ECB, including the outstanding ECB, up to 75% of their owned funds, for on-lending to the infrastructure sector.

8. Utilisation of ECB is permitted for capital expenditure incurred for the purpose of maintenance and operations of toll systems for roads and highways provided the same form part of the original project.

9. Fresh ECB can also be raised for refinancing existing ECB.

Restriction on ECB utilisation

Funds borrowed by way of ECB cannot be used for:

1. Onward lending, investment in capital market, acquiring a company (or a part thereof) in India by a corporate.

2. Working capital requirement (except where specifically permitted), general corporate purposes and repayment of existing Rupee loans (except where specifically permitted).

3. For real estate activities.

FROM WHOM CAN ONE BORROW

One can raise ECB from internationally recognised sources such as:

1. International banks, international capital markets, multilateral financial institutions such as IFC, ADB, CDC, etc.

2. Export credit agencies.

3. Suppliers of equipment, foreign collaborators and foreign equity holders.

4. Individuals – only in case of Companies registered under Section 25 of the Companies Act, 1956/NGO engaged in micro finance and MFI registered as societies, trusts and cooperatives.

Note:

1. In case of borrowing from Foreign Equity holder ECB up to US $ 5 million can be raised wherein the minimum direct foreign equity holding is of 25%

2. Where ECB above US $ 5 million is to be raised from Foreign Equity holder then the following two requirements have to be complied with:

1. a) The lender should have a minimum direct foreign equity holding of 25%; and

2. b) ECB liability-equity ratio of the borrowing company should not exceed 4:1
    

3. For calculating the ‘ECB liability’, not only the proposed borrowing but also the outstanding ECB from the same foreign equity holder lender shall be reckoned.

PARKING & UTILISATION OF ECB PROCEEDS OVERSEAS

1. ECB up to US $ 750 million per borrowing company (US $ 200 million for Corporates in the services sector viz. hotels, hospitals and software sector) per financial year under the Automatic Route is permitted for rupee and foreign currency expenditure for permissible end-uses and these funds have to be parked until actual requirement in India. However, NGO engaged in micro finance activities and MFI can raise ECB up to US $ 10 million or its equivalent only during a financial year.

2. Borrowers are permitted to either keep ECB proceeds abroad or to remit these funds to India, pending utilisation for permissible end-uses. However, ECB proceeds meant for Rupee expenditure are required to be repatriated to India immediately after drawdown.

TOTAL COST OF BORROWING

The total cost of borrowing should not exceed:

* for the respective currency of borrowing or applicable benchmark.

Total cost includes rate of interest, other fees and expenses in foreign currency except commitment fee, pre-payment fee, and fees payable in Indian Rupees. Further, total cost will exclude payment of withholding tax in Indian Rupees.

PREPAYMENT OF ECB

Prepayment up to US $ 500 million is allowed without obtaining prior approval of RBI, subject to compliance with the minimum average maturity period as applicable to the loan.

DIFFERENT POSSIBILITIES OF TAKING ECB

ECB can be accessed under two routes:

1. Automatic Route

2. Approval Route

AUTOMATIC ROUTE

Automatic route is available when ECB is for the purpose of investment in India in real sector – industrial sector, payment for obtaining licence / permit for 3G Spectrum, especially infrastructure sector ((i) power, (ii) telecommunication, (iii) railways, (iv) road including bridges, (v) sea port and airport, (vi) industrial parks (vii) urban infrastructure (water supply, sanitation and sewage projects), (viii) mining, exploration and refining and (ix) cold storage or cold room facility, including for farm level pre-cooling, for preservation or storage of agricultural and allied produce, marine products and meat). Under the automatic route the borrower is not required to obtain any RBI / Government approval. However, drawdown is permitted
only after obtaining Loan Registration Number (LRN) from RBI.

1. Who can borrow
   Only companies registered under the Companies Act, 1956 except financial intermediaries (such as banks, financial institutions (FI), housing finance companies and NBFCs) are eligible to borrow.
   Normally trusts (and all persons who are not companies), are not eligible for raising ECBs. However, now certain Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs) engaged in micro financing, are eligible to raise up to US $ 10 million during financial year under automatic route. They can borrow from certain overseas organisations and individuals. ECB proceeds can be utilised for lending to self-help groups or for micro-credit or for bona fide micro finance activity including capacity building. Detailed guidelines have been issued for this purpose.
   Entities in the Service Sector viz. hotels, hospitals and software companies can borrow up to US $ 200 million or its equivalent in a financial year for meeting foreign currency and / or Rupee capital expenditure for permissible end-uses. The proceeds of the ECBs should not be used for acquisition of land.
    

2.  Amount and Maturity

1. a) ECB up to US $ 20 million or equivalent with minimum average maturity of three years

2. b) ECB above US $ 20 million and up to US $ 750 million or equivalent with minimum average maturity of five years

3. c) ECB up to US $ 20 million can have call/put option provided the minimum average maturity of 3 years is complied before exercising call/put option.

SIDBI can avail of ECB to the extent of 50% of their owned funds including the o/s ECB, subject to the ceiling of US $ 500 mn. per Financial Year.

Important note: It should be noted that though the route is automatic, the borrower has to file in duplicate the form with the details of the loan and submit the same to the Authorised Dealer. The RBI will give the registration number. Only after that the loan can be drawn.

APPROVAL ROUTE

The following types of proposals for ECB will be covered under the Approval Route. These proposals will be approved by the empowered committee of RBI. There is no restriction as such on the amount of borrowing.

Who can borrow

1. Financial institutions (either directly or through Special Purpose Vehicles) dealing exclusively with infrastructure or export finance such as SIDBI, IDFC, ILFS, Power Finance Corporation, Power Trading Corporation, IRCON and EXIM Bank.

2. Banks and financial institutions which had participated in the textile or steel sector restructuring package as approved by the Government will also be permitted to the extent of their investment in the package and assessment by RBI based on prudential norms. Any ECB availed for this purpose so far will be deducted from their entitlement.

3. ECB with minimum average maturity of 5 years by Non-banking Financial Companies.

4. Foreign Currency Convertible Bonds (FCCB) by housing Finance Companies satisfying the prescribed criteria.

5. Multi-State Co-operative Societies engaged in manufacturing activity.

6. Indian companies engaged in the development of integrated townships including housing, commercial premises, hotels, resorts, city and regional level urban infrastructure facilities such as roads and bridges, mass rapid transit systems and manufacture of building materials, development of land and providing allied infrastructure.

7. SEZ developers can avail of ECB under the Approval Route for providing infrastructure facilities, as defined in the ECB policy, within the SEZ.

8. Cases falling outside the purview of the automatic route limits and maturity period indicated above come under approval route.

9. Companies eligible to borrow under the automatic route can borrow an additional amount of up to US $ 250 million with an average maturity of more than 10 years. Prepayment and call/put options are not permitted for such borrowing up to a period of 10 years.

10. Housing Finance Companies (HFC)/National Housing Bank (NHB) can avail of ECB for financing prospective owners of low cost affordable housing units.

7.4.2 BORROWINGS THROUGH LOANS / DEPOSITS

Indian Companies, other Body Corporates, Indian Proprietary Concerns and Firms can accept fresh deposits from NRI only if the deposit is by way of debit to the NRO account of the lender and the amount deposited does not represent inward remittances or transfer from NRE/FCNR (B) Accounts into the NRO Account of the lender. However, they are permitted to hold and renew on maturity existing deposits received by them on repatriation as well as non-repatriation basis.

Resident Individuals are permitted to avail of interest free loans up to US $ 250,000 from their NRI / PIO relative(s) (as defined under the Companies Act, 1956) subject to certain conditions.

Special permission of the RBI will be required in case where deposits / loans do not fulfil the specified criteria or where the deposits/loans are on repatriation basis in the case of proprietary concerns and firms.

Banks can grant loans without any ceiling but subject to usual margin requirements (in Indian Rupes in India and in foreign currency in India or overseas) against NRE and FCNR(B) deposits either to the depositors or third parties in India or overseas.

8. PERMISSIBLE TRANSACTIONS BY NON-RESIDENTS

8.1 INVESTMENTS AND COLLABORATIONS IN INDIA

8.1.1 Foreign Investment in India

The Industrial Policy governs the Foreign Direct Investment in India. Both – FEMA and industrial Policy (including consolidated FDI Policy) – should be read together to have a full picture. Sectoral limits for Foreign Direct Investments and Investments by NRIs are almost at par excepting the sector of Housing and Real Estate Development, and Domestic Airlines. Various avenues and policy for foreign investment are covered in brief.

Investment is generally allowed in an Indian company, which in turn does actual business. Branches, liaison offices and project offices can be opened for limited purposes. In SEZs, non-residents can invest as a branch/unit, Joint Venture or a Wholly Owned Subsidiary on automatic basis. Investment in a proprietorship, partnership or Association of Persons, is subject to RBI permission in certain cases.

Investment can be made by an incorporated entity, or individuals. Unincorporated entities cannot invest. However, citizens and incorporated entities of Pakistan are permitted to invest under the Foreign Direct Investment Scheme only after obtaining prior permission from the FIPB. However, the Indian company in which the investment is proposed should not be engaged / should not engage in sectors / activities pertaining to defence, space and atomic energy and sectors/ activities prohibited for foreign investment. Citizens and incorporated entities of Bangladesh can invest only after obtaining prior approval of FIPB. Investment can be by way of subscription to the capital of the company or by way of acquisition from existing shareholders.

Investment in India can be made in almost ANY sector without any approval from any authority. This is known as the “Automatic route”. Even for the small list of sectors, which are not under the “automatic route”, a specific approval can be taken from Secretariat of Industrial Assistance (SIA) / Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB).

Banks are permitted, subject to certain terms and conditions, to open and maintain, without prior approval of the Reserve Bank, non-interest bearing Escrow accounts in Indian Rupees in India on behalf of residents and / or non-residents, towards payment of share purchase consideration and / or provide Escrow facilities for keeping securities to facilitate FDI transactions. Similarly, SEBI authorised Depository Participants, subject to certain terms and conditions, can also open and maintain, without prior approval of the Reserve Bank, Escrow accounts for securities. These facilities are available for both issue of fresh shares to the non-residents as well as transfer of shares from / to the non-residents.

FDI is prohibited in the following activities/sectors

1. Lottery Business including Government /private lottery, online lotteries, etc.

2. Gambling and Betting including casinos, etc.

3. Chit funds

4. Nidhi company

5. Trading in Transferable Development Rights (TDRs)

6. Real Estate Business or Construction of Farm Houses

7. Manufacturing of Cigars, cheroots, cigarillos and cigarettes, of tobacco or of tobacco substitutes

8. Activities/sectors not open to private sector investment e.g. Atomic Energy and Railway Transport (other than Mass Rapid Transport Systems).

9. Foreign technology collaboration in any form including licensing for franchise, trademark, brand name, management contract is also prohibited for Lottery Business and Gambling and Betting activities.

List of activities which require prior permission

1. Where the foreign investor has an existing Joint Venture / technology transfer / trademark agreement in the ‘same’ field prior to January 12, 2005.

2. Foreign investment exceeding 24% in case of items, which are, reserved for small sector undertakings. These items include biscuits, toys, woodwork, etc. - which do not require high technology.

3. The investment is not within the sectoral guidelines.

4. The investment in certain sectors, though within the sectoral guidelines, requires prior approval of the Government e.g. sectors where an industrial licence is required
   – cigars and cigarettes manufacture.

In case the foreign investment falls within the above-restricted list or does not fall within the sector specific investment limits prescribed for automatic approval, an approval needs to be obtained from SIA / FIPB by satisfying them about the benefits to India. Powers of SIA / FIPB are discretionary.

It is also necessary that the foreigner investor should not have any other investment or collaboration or trademarks agreement with an Indian resident in the same field before January 12, 2005. Otherwise an FIPB approval is required. This requirement for obtaining FIPB approval will not be applicable to FDI proposals relating to the IT sector / mining sector as well as to FDI by International Financial Institutions such as Asian Development Bank (ADB), International Finance Corporation (IFC), Commonwealth Development Corporation (CDC), Deutsche Entwicklungs Gescelschaft (DEG), etc., as investment made by International Financial Institutions is generally without an element of technical / trademark collaboration. Further the requirement for obtaining approval does not apply to investment by Venture Capital Funds registered with SEBI; where investment by joint venture party is less than 3%; and where the existing venture is sick or defunct.

Investments can be made in Indian companies’ by way of fully paid equity shares and / or fully paid compulsorily convertible preference shares / debentures only.

Investment in trading companies (retail trading is not permitted except in ‘Single Brand’ products) can be made only up to 51% under the automatic route. Remittance of dividend in respect of such investment is allowed only after the company secures registration as an Export / Trading / Star Trading House.

Investment in retail trading companies engaged in retail trade of ‘Single Brand’ products can be made up to 100% under the approval route (after obtaining prior approval from the Secretariat of Industrial Assistance (SIA)) subject to the following conditions:

1. Products to be sold should be of a ‘Single Brand’ only.

2. Products should be sold under the same brand internationally.

3. ‘Single Brand’ product retailing will cover only products that are branded during manufacturing.

4. Only one non-resident entity, whether owner of the brand or otherwise, shall be permitted to undertake single brand product retail trading in the country for the specific brand, through a legally tenable agreement.

Automatic Route is also available for acquisition of existing shares if the specified conditions are satisfied.

In case of investments under “Automatic Route” intimation has to be made to RBI about details of investors within 30 days of receipt of funds. In all cases (whether under Automatic Route or Approval Route), Form FC-GPR – Part ‘A’ has to be filed with RBI, through the company’s bankers, within 30 days of allotment of securities. A Company Secretary’s certificate also has to be filed in the specified format confirming fulfilment of various legal requirements. A Chartered Accountant’s or statutory auditor’s certificate indicating the manner of arriving at the price at which the securities have been issued, is also required to be submitted.

Thereafter, every year before 31st July, Annual return on Foreign Liabilities and Assets has to be filed directly with the Director, Balance of Payment Statistical Division, RBI detailing all investments by way of direct / portfolio / re-invested earnings / others in the Indian company during the preceding financial year.

Allotment of shares has to be done within 180 days from the date of receipt of inward remittance or debit to NRE / FCNR(B) account, as the case may be.

8.1.2 Euro Issues, ADR/GDR Issues

– No end-use restrictions except prohibition on investment in stock market & real estate

– A broker can purchase shares on behalf of Non-Residents and convert the shares so purchased into ADR/GDR

– Two-way fungibility allowed in case of ADR/GDR issues i.e. ADR/GDR can be converted into underlying equity shares in India and shares already issued in India can be converted into ADR/GDR and issued abroad.

– Funds raised can be brought into India or retained abroad for meeting future foreign exchange requirements.

8.1.3 Technical Know-how Fees and royalty

Technical Know-how Fees and Royalty can be remitted without RBI permission. The lump-sum shall be paid in three installments as detailed below, unless otherwise stipulated in the approval letter: - First 1/3 after the collaboration agreement is filed with the Authorised Dealer in Foreign Exchange. Second 1/3 on delivery of know-how documentation. Third and final 1/3 on commencement of commercial production, or four years after the agreement is filed with the Authorised Dealer in Foreign Exchange, whichever is earlier. The lump sum can be paid in more than three installments, subject to completion of activities as specified above.

Further, royalty on domestic sales and export sales can be paid (net of taxes), without any limitation as to the period of payment. Even wholly owned subsidiaries can make payments for royalty and know-how payments to their parents. The royalty will be calculated on the basis of the net ex-factory sale price of the product, exclusive of excise duties, minus the cost of the standard bought-out components and the landed cost of imported components, irrespective of the source of procurement, including ocean freight, insurance, custom duties, etc. The payment of royalty will be restricted to the licensed capacity plus 25% in excess thereof for such items requiring industrial licence or on such capacity as specified in the approval letter. This restriction will not apply to items not requiring industrial licence. In case of production in excess of this quantum, prior approval of Government would have to be obtained regarding the terms of payment of royalty in respect of such excess production. The royalty would not be payable beyond the period of the agreement if the orders had not been executed during the period of agreement. However, where the orders themselves took a long time to execute, then the royalty for an order booked during the period of agreement, but executed after the period of agreement, would be payable only after a Chartered Accountant certifies that the orders in fact have been firmly booked and execution began during the period of agreement, and the technical assistance was available on a continuing basis even after the period of agreement. No minimum guaranteed royalty would be allowed.

The lump sum fees and royalty payable above or under 8.1.4 below can be paid in kind i.e. equity shares can be issued by the concerned company instead of paying the same in foreign exchange.

8.1.4 Royalty Payment for trademarks and brands

Royalty is allowed to be paid to the foreign collaborator under the automatic route for use of his trademarks and brand name even if there is no transfer of technology. For this purpose royalty on brand name / trade mark shall be paid as a percentage of net sales, viz., gross sales less agents’/dealers’ commission, transport cost, including ocean freight, insurance, duties, taxes and other charges, and cost of raw materials, parts, components imported from the foreign licensor or its subsidiary / affiliated company.

8.1.5 Conversion into equity

An Indian company can issue, subject to certain terms and conditions, equity shares / preference shares under the Approval Route:

1. By way of conversion of monies payable against import of capital goods / machineries / equipment (other than second-hand machineries).

2. Against receipt of money from overseas investor towards pre-operative / pre-incorporation expenses (including payments of rent, etc.).

8.1.6 Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs)

FIIs such as Pension Funds, Investment Trusts, Asset Management Companies, etc., who have obtained registration from SEBI, are permitted to invest on full repatriation basis under FDI Policy as well as under in the Indian Primary & Secondary Stock Markets (including OTCEI) including in unlisted, dated Government Securities, Treasury Bills, ‘to be listed’ debt securities, Units of Domestic Mutual Funds and commercial paper without any lock-in period.

Limits on Investments are:

1. The total holdings of all FIIs in any company will be subject to a ceiling of 24% of its total paid-up capital. The company concerned can raise this ceiling of 24% upto the sectoral cap / statutory ceiling as applicable.

2. A single FII cannot hold more than 10% of the paid-up capital of any company.

3. A FII may trade in all exchange trade derivative contracts approved by SEBI from time to time subject to the limits as prescribed in by SEBI.

8.1.7 Foreign Venture Capital Investor (FVCI)

A registered Foreign Venture Capital Investor (FVCI) may, through the Securities and Exchange Board of India, apply to the Reserve Bank for permission to invest in Indian Venture Capital Undertaking (IVCU) or in a VCF or in a scheme floated by such VCFs. The registered FVCI may purchase equity / equity linked instruments/ debt / debt instruments, debentures of an IVCU or of a VCF through Initial Public Offer or Private Placement or in units of schemes/funds set up by a VCF. The amount of consideration for investment in VCFs/IVCUs shall be paid out of inward remittance from abroad through normal banking channels or out of funds held in an account maintained with the designated branch of an authorised dealer in India. There is no limit on investments. However, if the FVCI intends to invest in a IVCU which registered as Trust then the FVCI has to obtain prior permission of the Government.

8.1.8 International Financial Institutions

Multilateral Development Banks, which are specifically permitted by the Government to float rupee bonds in India, are permitted to purchase Government dated securities.

8.1.9 Investments by Non-Resident Employees of Indian companies, etc.

An Indian company can issue shares up to 5% of its paid-up capital to its employees or employees of its overseas joint venture or wholly owned subsidiary resident outside India, under a SEBI approved Employees Stock Options Scheme. These shares cannot however be issued to employees who are citizens of Pakistan.

8.1.10 Investment by Qualified Foreign Investor (QFIs)

Non-resident investors (other than SEBI registered FIIs and SEBI registered FVCIs) who meet the KYC requirements of SEBI, hereinafter called ‘Qualified Foreign Investors’ (QFIs), are now allowed to purchase on repatriation basis units of equity schemes of domestic MFs in accordance with certain terms and conditions.

9. SECTOR SPECIFIC GUIDELINES FOR FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT

9.1 Prohibition on Investment in India.

FDI is prohibited in the following activities / sectors:

1. Lottery Business including Government /private lottery, online lotteries, etc.

2. Gambling and Betting including casinos, etc.

3. Chit funds

4. Nidhi company

5. Trading in Transferable Development Rights (TDRs)

6. Real Estate Business or Construction of Farm Houses

7. Manufacturing of cigars, cheroots, cigarillos and cigarettes, of tobacco or of tobacco substitutes

8. Activities / sectors not open to private sector investment e.g. Atomic Energy and Railway Transport (other than Mass Rapid Transport Systems).

Besides the above Foreign technology collaboration in any form including licensing for franchise, trademark, brand name, management contract is also prohibited for Lottery Business and Gambling and Betting activities.

please click here for FDI Circular No. 01 2013 – Para 6.2 issued by DIPP

9.2 In sectors/activities not listed above, FDI is permitted up to 100% on the automatic route subject to applicable laws/sectoral rules/regulations.

Notes:

1. In sectors/activities not listed above or not prohibited or not requiring prior Government approval, FDI is permitted up to 100% under the automatic route subject to sectoral rules / regulations applicable.

2. In sectors where 100% foreign investment is not permitted i.e. where sectoral caps on foreign ownership are prescribed, prior approval of FIPB will be required to obtained if foreign ownership in the Indian company is 50% or more or control is exercised with the power to appoint a majority of the Directors on the Board of the Indian Company in the following circumstances when: -

a. At the time of incorporation of the Indian company.

b. Shares in the Indian company are transferred from a resident Indian to a non-resident entity through amalgamation, merger, acquisition, etc.
 

3. In case of transfer of shares from a resident Indian to a non-resident entity Form FC-TRS has to be filed with the Bank where the transaction takes place within 60 days from the date of receipt of the full and final amount of consideration.

10. BRANCH /LIAISON/PROJECT OFFICES IN INDIA

10.1 BRANCH OFFICES

A body corporate incorporated outside India (including a firm or other association of individuals) can make an application in Form FNC-1 to RBI, Central Office, through a designated Bank in India, for seeking permission to open a Branch Office (BO) in India. The applicant must have a profit making track record during the immediately preceding five financial years in the home country and a net worth of US $ 100,000 or its equivalent as per the latest Audited Balance Sheet or Account Statement certified by a Certified Public Accountant or any Registered Accounts Practitioner.

Normally, the BO must be engaged in the activity in which the parent company is engaged. However, when a company incorporated outside India and engaged in manufacturing or trading activities set-up a BO, the BO can undertake the following activities:

1. Export & Import of goods – only on wholesale basis.

2. Rendering professional or consultancy services.

3. Carrying out research work, in areas in which the parent company is engaged.

4. Promoting technical or financial collaborations between Indian companies and parent or overseas group company.

5. Representing the parent company in India and acting as buying / selling agent in India.

6. Rendering services in information technology and development of software in India.

7. Rendering technical support to the products supplied by parent / group companies.

8. Foreign airline / shipping company.

The BO cannot undertake retail trading activities of any nature and also cannot carry out manufacturing or processing activities in India, directly or indirectly.

The BO can freely remit profits earned from India, subject to payment of applicable taxes.

Branch Office in SEZ

RBI has granted General Permission to foreign companies for establishing branch / unit in Special Economic Zones (SEZ) to undertake manufacturing and service activities, subject to the following conditions:

1. BO must function in those sectors where 100 per cent FDI is permitted;

2. BO must comply with part XI of the Companies Act, 1956 (Sections 592 to 602);

3. BO must function on a stand-alone basis.

Branches of Foreign Banks

Foreign banks do not require separate approval under FEMA, for opening branch office in India provided obtained necessary approval under the provisions of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, from Department of Banking Operations & Development, Reserve Bank.

10.2 LIAISON OFFICES

A body corporate incorporated outside India (including a firm or other association of individuals) can make an application in Form FNC-1 to RBI, Central Office, through a designated Bank in India, for seeking permission to open a Liaison Office (LO) in India. The applicant must have a profit making track record during the immediately preceding three financial years in the home country and a net worth of US $ 50,000 or its equivalent as per the latest Audited Balance Sheet or Account Statement certified by a Certified Public Accountant or any Registered Accounts Practitioner. Permission to set up such offices is initially granted for a period of 3 years and this may be extended from time to time.

LO or Representative Office can undertake only liaison activities, i.e. it can act as a channel of communication between Head Office abroad and parties in India. It is not allowed to undertake any business activity in India and cannot earn any income in India. All its expenses must be met entirely through inward remittances of foreign exchange from the Head Office outside India. LO can undertake the following activities in India: -

1. Representing in India the parent company / group companies.

2. Promoting export / import from / to India.

3. Promoting technical / financial collaborations between parent/group companies and companies in India.

4. Acting as a communication channel between the parent company and Indian companies.

Liaison Offices of Foreign Insurance Companies / Banks

Foreign Insurance companies can establish Liaison Offices in India only after obtaining approval from the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDA).

Foreign banks can establish Liaison Offices in India only after obtaining approval from the Department of Banking Operations and Development (DBOD), Reserve Bank of India.

10.3 UIN & PAN

BO / LO are granted a Unique Identification Number by RBI. They are upon setting-up office, required to obtain PAN under Income-tax Act, 1961.

10.4 ANNUAL ACTIVITY CERTIFICATE

Every BO / LO is required to file an Annual Activity Certificate (AAC) at the end of March 31 along with the audited Balance Sheet with RBI, through its Bank as well as with the Director General of Income Tax (International Taxation), Drum Shaped Building, I.P. Estate, New Delhi 110 002., on or before September 30 of that year. The certificate is to be obtained from a Chartered Accountant.

10.5 PROJECT OFFICES

RBI has granted general permission to those foreign companies to establish Project Offices in India who have secured a contract from an Indian company to execute a project in India, and: -

1. the project is funded directly by inward remittance from abroad; or

2. the project is funded by a bilateral or multilateral International Financing Agency; or

3. the project has been cleared by an appropriate authority; or

4.  a company or entity in India awarding the contract has been granted Term Loan by a Public Financial Institution or a bank in India for the project.

However, if the above criteria in respect of funding are not met, the foreign entity has to approach the Central Office of RBI for approval to set up a Project Office (PO) in India.

PO can, subject to certain conditions, open two non-interest bearing foreign currency accounts. Similarly, PO can, subject to certain conditions, make remittances pending winding up / completion of the project.

Any foreign Non-Government Organisation / Non-Profit Organisation / Foreign Government Body / Department, by whatever name called, can set-up a BO / LO / PO in India only under the Approval Route, i.e., under the government route. Prior permission of RBI is required.

Every BO / LO / PO has to file the following report (in the prescribed format) with the Director General Police (DGP) of the State whether the BO / LO / PO is located: -

1. A report within five working days of the LO / BO / PO becoming functional; if there are more than one office of such a foreign entity, in such cases to each of the DGP concerned of the State where it has established office in India.

2. A report has to be filed on annual basis along with a copy of the Annual Activity Certificate / Annual report required to be submitted by LO / BO / PO concerned, as the case may be. BO & LO are required to submit annual activity certificate by the C.A. as on 31st March along with the audited b/s on or before 30th September of that year. (AP Dir No. 55 dated 26-11-2012). Copy of report to be filed with the D & P concerned on the annual basis. A copy of the annual certificate and also with the AD concerned.

3. A copy of report filed as above has also be filed with the Bank by the LO / BO / PO concerned.

11. INVESTMENTS BY NRI/PIO

NRIs can invest in shares and convertible debentures of Indian companies. OCBs are barred from investments. They can invest as any other foreign company i.e. additional investment facilities available to NRIs now cannot be exercised through OCBs. However, OCBs who have existing investments in India, can be granted case by case approval by RBI for additional investments.

Foreign investment policy for foreigners applies equally to NRI for repatriable investment. There are only two sectors – Real Estate Development and Domestic Airlines – where investment facilities are different for NRIs and foreigners.

NRI investment in foreign exchange is made fully repatriable whereas investments made in Indian Rupees through NRO accounts are non-repatriable. It should be noted that while capital remains non-repatriable, income on the investment can be repatriated. Further, NRI are allowed to remit overseas / transfer to their NRE account up to US$ 1 million per calendar year, subject to payment of tax, out of their funds in NRO account, or sale of non-repatriable investments, this can also be by way of transfer from NRO account to NRE account.

RBI has granted general permission to NRI/PIO to acquire shares from other NRI/PIO.

NRIs from Nepal are also permitted to make direct investments on repatriation basis if they remit funds in foreign exchange.

Portfolio Investment in Companies, other than those engaged in the print media sector, listed on Stock Exchanges Permitted up to 5% for each NRI subject to overall ceiling of 10% of the Company's capital. The Company concerned can increase this limit of 10% to 24%.

NRI may invest in exchange traded derivative contracts approved by SEBI from time to time out of INR funds held in India on non-repatriation basis subject to the limits prescribed by SEBI.

NRI are permitted to invest up to 100% in PSE Capital / PSU Bonds, Government Securities (other than Bearer Securities), units of UTI & instruments of domestic Mutual Funds (referred to in sec. 10 (23D) of the Income Tax Act, 1961).

Purchase of shares by NRI from existing resident share holders is permitted under the automatic route if the specified conditions are satisfied.

NRI/PIO can invest on non-repatriation basis in all sectors except plantations, nidhis, chit funds and real estate trading. In such cases restrictions placed on investments made on repatriation basis will also not apply. Investments in Companies, Partnership Firms or Proprietary Concerns can be made up to 100 % of the capital of these entities. These entities can in turn carry on permitted business activity. No prior permission from RBI is required. If they want to invest on repatriation basis they will have to seek prior approval of SIA / FIPB, which may grant it at its discretion.

NRI can repatriate their investments which were originally made non-repatriation basis under the automatic route if: -

1. The original investment was made in foreign exchange under the FDI Scheme and

2. The sector / activity in which the investment was made is proposed to be converted into repatriable equity is on the automatic route for FDI.

If the above two conditions are not met approval will have to be obtained from FIPB for conversion of non-repatriable equity into repatriable equity.

NRIs are now permitted to credit the sale proceeds of FDI investment in their NRE / FCNR (B) accounts, provided the investment was received by way of remittance from abroad or by way debit to NRE / FCNR (B) account of the investor.

12. ACQUISITION AND TRANSFER OF IMMOVABLE PROPERTY IN INDIA

Immovable property in India can be acquired / transferred by following persons:

Table A

Notes: -

1. Persons of Indian Origin do not include citizens of Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, China, Iran, Nepal or Bhutan.

2. NRI / PIO can borrow money from banks / approved housing finance companies for acquisition / repairs / renovation / improvement of residential accommodation in India.

3. NRI / PIO can repatriate equivalent to the amount of foreign exchange remitted into India at the time of purchase.

4. Payment by NRI / PIO for purchase of immovable property cannot be by way of foreign currency notes or travellers cheques.

5. NRI / PIO employees of Indian companies in India or their branches outside India can also take loans from their employers for purchasing housing property in India or abroad or for any other purpose other than for utilising in the following activities: -

1. Chit fund business

2. Nidhi company

3. Agricultural or plantation activity or in real estate business or construction of farm houses

4. Trading in TDR

5. Investment in capital market including margin trading and derivatives.

Table B

13. REMITTANCES OF PROCEEDS OF ASSETS BY FOREIGN NATIONALS AND ASSETS ACQUIRED BY NRI / PIO BY WAY OF INHERITANCE / LEGACY / SETTLEMENT

Foreign nationals, NRI / PIO can remit up to US $ 1 million per financial year out of balances held in NRO accounts / out of sale proceeds of assets / assets acquired by him by way of inheritance / legacy / settlement. As in the case of inheritance / legacy, remittance in case of settlement will be permitted only after the death of the settler. The person making the remittance will have to obtain a Chartered Accountants certificate and / or give an undertaking in the prescribed form, as the case may be.

This facility is not available to citizens of Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, China, Afghanistan, Iran, Nepal and Bhutan.

14. TEMPORARY FOREIGN CURRENCY ACCOUNTS IN INDIA

Organisers of International Seminars, Conferences, Conventions, etc. who have been permitted by the concerned Administrative Ministry of the Government of India to hold such seminars, etc. are permitted to open temporary foreign currency accounts in India. The account is to be operated for receipt of delegate fees from abroad and payment of expenses including payment to special invitees from abroad. The said account has to be closed immediately after the conference / event is over.

Investments Facilities in Brief