Direct Taxes
- Accountant’s Reports under the Income-tax Act
- Amalgamation and Demergers
- Appeals
- Audit Reports under the Income-Tax Act/ Accountant’s Reports under the Income-tax Act
- Capital Gains
- Capital Gains on Specific Transfers
- Charitable Trusts
- Clubbing Provisions
- Co-operative Society – Taxation
- Deductions and Rebates
- Deemed Dividend
- Direct Tax Vivad Se Vishwas Act, 2020
- Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement
- Exempt Capital Gains
- Exempt Income
- Forms of I-Tax Act
- Full value of consideration in respect of transfer of Immovable Property held as business asset – Section 43CA
- Gifts Treated as Income
- Important Due Dates under Direct Taxes
- Income Computation & Disclosure Standard
- Income from House Property
- Interest
- Interpretation of Taxing Statutes
- Investment Planner
- Legal Maxim
- Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT) and Alternate Minimum Tax (AMT)
- Penalties
- Permanent Account Number (PAN)
- Presumptive Taxation
- Rates of Depreciation
- Rates of Income Tax
- Rectifications
- Return of Income
- Revision
- Salaries
- Search/Survey – Rights and Duties
- Section 14A : Disallowance of Expenditure incurred in relation to income exempt from tax
- Set-off and carry forward of losses
- Settlement Commission
- Statement of Financial Transactions or Reportable Account Annual Information Return (Section 285BA, Rule 114E)
- Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number (TDCAN)
- Taxation of Firms
- TDS Chart
Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements
Sl. No. |
DTAA between India and |
Effective date in India |
Tax rate on |
Remarks |
|||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dividend (See Note 8) (%) |
Interest (%) |
Royalties (%) See Note 4 |
Technical Service Fees (%) See Note 4 |
|
|||
1. |
Albania 355 ITR 80 |
1.4.2014 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Agreement between Republic of India and Republic of Albania was notified by way of Press Release dated 8 July 2013. |
2. |
Armenia 271 ITR 72 |
1.4.2005 A. Y. 2006-07 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt (a) the Government, a political sub-division or a local authority; or (b) RBI and the Central Bank of Armenia or any other institutions as may be agreed upon. For Limitation Of Benefits (‘LOB’) Clause – Refer Note 6. |
3. |
Australia 194 ITR 241 Modified via Protocol 358 ITR 15 |
01.04.1992 A.Y. 1993-94 |
15 @ |
15 @ |
[See Note 2] |
[See Note 2] |
Protocol amends Article 3 (Definitions), Article 5 (Permanent Establishment), Article 7 (Business Profits), Article 24A (Non-Discrimination), Article 26 (Exchange of Information) and Article 26A (Assistance in Collection of Taxes). MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
4. |
Austria 251 ITR 97 |
01.04.2002 A.Y. 2003-04 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Protocol amending treaty for Articles for Exchange of Information and Assistance in Collection of taxes MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
5. |
Bangladesh 198 ITR 99 Modified via Protocol 355 ITR 97 |
01.04.1992 A.Y. 1993-94 |
10 @ 15 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
No separate provision |
10% tax on dividends if at least 10% of the capital is owned by Company; in other cases 15%. Protocol amends Article 21 (Students) and Article 28 (Exchange of Information). |
6. |
Belarus 233 ITR 4 Modified via Protocol Notification No. 2/2016/F.No. 501/07/1999-FTD-I |
01.04.1999 A.Y. 2000-01 |
10 @ 15 @ |
10 @ |
15 @ |
15 @ |
10% tax on dividends if at least 25% of the capital is directly and beneficially owned by a company; in other cases 15%. Protocol replaces Article 27 - Exchange of Information to make it more comprehensive. |
7. |
Belgium 228 ITR 79 247 ITR 39 |
01.04.1998 A.Y. 1999-2000 |
15 @ |
15 @ 10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10% tax on interest if loan granted by bank, other cases 15%. 10% tax on royalties and technical services fees w.e.f. 1.4.1998. Modification also restricts scope of royalties. MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
8. |
Bhutan NOTIFICATION NO.42/2014 [F.NO.503/4/2004-FTD-II] |
01.04.2015 A.Y. 2016-17 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt (a) the Government, a political sub-division or a local authority of the other Contracting state; or (b) (i) in case of India, the RBI and the EXIM Bank of India or (ii) in case of Bhutan, The Royal Monetary Authority and Bhutan Development Bank Limited (c) any other institution as may be agreed upon from time to time between the competent authorities of the Contracting states through exchange of letters For Limitation of Benefits (‘LOB’) Clause – Refer Note 5. |
9. |
Botswana 302 ITR 277 |
01.04.2009 A.Y. 2010-11 |
7.5 @ 10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
7.5% tax on dividends if at least 25% of the capital is owned by Company; in other cases 10%. Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt
|
10. |
Brazil 195 ITR 73 |
01.04.1993 A.Y. 1994-95 |
15 @ |
15 @ |
25 @ 15 @ |
25 @ 15 @ Fees for Technical Services are covered under Royalty article as per protocol |
Royalties arising from use or right to use trademarks taxable at 25%, in other cases tax rate is 15%. |
11. |
Bulgaria 220 ITR 30 |
01.04.1996 A.Y. 1997-98 |
15 @ |
15 @ |
15 @ 20 @ |
20 @ |
Royalties relating to Copyrights etc. taxable at 15%, in all other cases 20@ |
12. |
Canada 229 ITR 44 |
01.04.1998 A.Y. 1999-2000 |
15 @ 25 @ |
15 @ |
[See Note 2] |
[See Note 2] |
15% tax on dividends if at least 10% of capital is owned by a Co., in other cases 25%. MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
13. |
China 214 ITR 160 |
01.04.1995 A.Y. 1996-97 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
For Interest, benefit of exemption given to the financial institution owned by resident of a Contracting State for interest earned in respect of debt claims indirectly financed by the Government now withdrawn – By virtue of Paragraph 3 substituted by Protocol to the treaty. The provisions of the protocol will apply in India from 1 April, 2020. |
14. |
Colombia Notification No. 44/2014/F.No. 501/3/99-FTD-II |
01.04.2015 A.Y. 2016-17 |
5 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt (a) the Government, a political sub-division or a local or territorial authority of the other Contracting state; or (b) (i) in case of India, the RBI and the EXIM Bank of India or (ii) in the case of Colombia, the Banco de la Republica and the Bancoldex (c) any other institution as may be agreed upon from time to time between the competent authorities of the contracting states through exchange of letter For Limitation Of Benefits (‘LOB’) Clause – Refer Note 5. |
15. |
Croatia |
1.4.2016 A.Y. 2017-18 |
5 @ 15 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
5% tax on dividends if at least 10% of the capital is directly owned by the Company, in other cases 15%. Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt (i) the Government, a political sub-division or a local authority of the other Contracting state; or (ii) The Central Bank of the other Contracting state or any other bank or governmental financial institutions/ agencies that may be mutually agreed upon between the two Contracting state. As per protocol – notwithstanding the provisions of the agreement, a company resident in the Contracting state in which persons who are not residents of that state hold, directly or indirectly, a participation of more than 50% of the share capital, shall not be entitled to relieves provided by the agreement in respect of dividends, interest, royalties arising in the other Contracting state. This provision shall not apply where the said Company is engaged in substantive business operations, other than mere holding of shares or property, in the Contracting state of which it is a resident. |
16. |
Cyprus 218 ITR 70 Notification No. 3/2017/F. No. 504/05/2003-FTD-I |
1.4.1993 A.Y. 1994-95 1.4.2017 AY 2018-19 |
*10 @ |
**10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
*10% if the beneficial owner of the dividend is a resident of other contracting state **Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt
Any other institution as may be agreed upon from time to time between the competent authorities of the contracting states Article 26 – Exchange Of Information made more comprehensive |
17. |
Czech Republic 241 ITR 90 |
1.4.2000 A.Y. 2001-02 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
— |
18. |
Denmark 180 ITR 1 Modified via Protocol Notification No. 45/2015/F.No. 503/02/1998-FTD-I |
1.4.1990 A.Y. 1991-92 |
15 @ 25 @ |
10 + 15 + |
20 @ |
20 @ |
15% tax on dividends if at least 25% of the capital is owned by Company; in other cases 25%. Interest is taxable at 10% on loan from bank; in other cases it is taxable at 15%. Protocol replaces Article 26 - Exchange of Information to make it more comprehensive. MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
19. |
Estonia 346 ITR 143 |
1.4.2013 A.Y 2014-15 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10@ |
Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt c. The Government, a political sub-division or a local authority of the other contracting state d. (i) In case of India, the Reserve Bank of India and e. Any other institution as may be agreed upon from time to time between the competent authorities of the contracting states For LOB Clause – Refer Note 5. |
20. |
Ethiopia 353 ITR 78 |
1.4.2013 A.Y. 2014-15 |
7.5 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt
For LOB Clause – Refer Note 5 |
21. |
Fiji Notification No.35/2014 [F.No.503/11/2005-FTD-II/SO 2049E |
1.4.2015 A.Y. 2016-17 |
5 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt a. The Government, a political sub-division or a local authority of the other contracting state b. (i) In case of India, the Reserve Bank of India, the EXIM Bank of India, the NH Bank and c. Any other institution as may be agreed upon from time to time between the competent authorities of the Contracting states For LOB Clause – Refer Note 5 |
22. |
Finland 324 ITR 1 |
1.4.2011 A.Y. 2012-13 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
1. Interest arising in India and paid to state of Finland, or a local authority or a statutory body thereof, Finnfund, Finn Vera Fund and other specified entities would be exempt from tax in India. 2. Interest arising in Finland and paid to Government of India, a political sub-division, local authority or statutory body thereof, RBI, NHB, EXIM Bank and other specified entities will be exempt from Finnish tax For LOB Clause – Refer Note 6 MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
23. |
France 209 ITR 130 244 ITR 134 |
1.4.1995 A.Y. 1996-97 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10% tax on dividend, interest, royalties and technical services fees w.e.f. 1-4-1997. Modification reflects the position in Protocol. MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
24. |
Georgia 341 ITR 1 |
1.4.2012 A.Y 2013-14 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Interest will be exempt from tax if it is derived and beneficially owned by (a) In case of India, (i) the Government, a political sub-division or a local authority (ii) the Reserve Bank of India, the EXIM Bank, the NH Bank. (b) In case of Georgia, (i) the Government or local authority (ii) The National Bank of Georgia (c) any other institution government agencies, political administrative sub-divisions as agreed from time to time. For LOB Clause – Refer Note 5 MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
25. |
Germany (Federal Republic of Germany) 223 ITR 130 |
1.4.1997 A.Y. 1998-99 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Treaty has some of the lowest withholding rates. It also effectively lowers from 29.10.1996, withholding rates of India’s Treaties with other OECD countries such as France, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, etc. |
26. |
Greece 64 ITR 86 |
1.4.1963 A.Y. 1964-65 |
* |
* |
* |
No separate provision |
* Dividend, interest and royalty income is chargeable as per domestic law in source country only. |
27. |
Hongkong Special Administrative Region ofthe People's Republic of China |
1.4.2020 A.Y. 2021-22 |
5@ |
10@ |
10@ |
10@ |
|
28. |
Hungary 274 ITR 74 |
1.4.2006 A.Y. 2007-08 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt i. Government, political sub-division or local authority of other Contracting state, ii. Central Bank of other Contracting states iii. The Hungarian Exim Bank or a resident of Hungary if the interest is paid in respect of a loan made, guaranteed or insured or a credit extended guaranteed or insured by the Hungarian Bank, iv. EXIM Bank or a resident of India if the interest is paid in respect of a loan made, guaranteed or insured or a credit extended, guaranteed or insured by the EXIM Bank v. Any other bank or government financial institution that may be mutually agreed upon between the two contracting states. |
29. |
Iceland 298 ITR 2 |
1.4.2008 A.Y 2009-10 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt a. The Government, a political sub-division or a local authority b. RBI, EXIM bank and NHB of India, Central Bank of Iceland and c. Any other institution as may be agreed upon. For LOB Clause – Refer Note 6. MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
30. |
Indonesia Notification No. 17/2016/ F. No. 503/4/2005 – FTD-II |
1.4.2017 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt (a) the Government, a political sub-division or a local authority of the other Contracting state; or (b) (i) in case of India, the RBI, the EXIM Bank of India and the NH Bank or (ii) in case of Indonesia, the Central Bank of Indonesia, the Centre for Government Investment and the Indonesia Exim Bank (c) any statutory body or any institution wholly owned by the Government of Contracting States as may be agreed upon from time to time between the competent authorities of the Contracting States. Article 27 - Exchange of Information made more comprehensive. For LOB Clause - Refer Note 5 |
31. |
Ireland 254 ITR 245 255 ITR 95 |
1.4.2002 A.Y. 2003-04 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
32. |
Israel 222 ITR 10 [Notification No.10/2017 F. No. 500/14/2004-FTD-II dated 14 February 2017 |
1.6.96/1.4.94 1.4.2017 AY 2018-19 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
For TDS on dividend, interest, royalties and technical service fees effective date is 1.6.1996, for taxes on Income and Capital effective date is 1.4.1994. LOB Clause amended – Refer Note 5 Article 27 - Exchange of Information made more comprehensive. MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
33. |
Italy 220 ITR 3 |
1.4.1996 A.Y. 1997-98 |
15 @ 25 @ |
15 + |
20 @ |
20 @ |
15% tax on dividends if at least 10% of the capital is owned by Company; in other cases 25%. Protocol amending the DTAA with Italy has been signed on 13th December, 2005 and awaiting notification, pursuant to which the tax rates would change to 10% for Dividends, Interest, Royalties and Fees for Technical Services. Concepts of Service PE and Conditions to treat Insurance PEs to be introduced. |
34. |
Japan 182 ITR 380 245 ITR 15 284 ITR 64 345 ITR 91 Notification No.102/2016 /F. No. 506/69/81-FTD-I] dated 28 October 2016 |
1.4.1990 A.Y. 1991-92 1.4.2017 AY 2018-19 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10% rate is applicable with effect from 1st April2007 vide Notification No. 186/2006 dated 19th July 2006. Interest income arising in the contracting State shall be taxable in the other Contracting State only if it is derived by: a. The Government, a political sub-division or a local authority thereof or Central bank of the other contracting state; b. (i) In case of Japan, the Bank of Japan; Japan Bank for international Co-operation; the Japan International Co-operation Agency; the Nippon Export and Investment Insurance and such other financial institutions the capital of which is wholly owned by the Government of Japan as may be agreed upon from time to time between the Governments of the two Contracting states; c. By any resident of the other Contracting state with respect to Debt-claims guaranteed, insured or indirectly financed by (a) and (b) above. Article 26 – Exchange Of Information clause made more comprehensive MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
35. |
Jordan 241 ITR 69 |
1.4.2000 A.Y. 2001-02 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
20 @ |
20 @ |
— |
36. |
Kazakhstan 228 ITR 162 |
1.4.1998 A.Y. 1999-2000 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Deeming provision for arising of interest. Royalty and fees for technical services with respect to payer being that State itself, a political subdivision, a local authority removed vide protocol. |
37. |
Kenya 157 ITR 8 |
1.4.1984 A.Y. 1985-86 further modified on 22-02-2018 |
10 @ |
10 + |
10 + |
No separate provision |
There is a specific clause for management and professional fees which is taxable income @ 10%. Article of Limitation of Benefit introduced and collection of taxes introduced |
38. |
Korea (South) 165 ITR 191 [Notification No. 96/2016/F. No. 500/121/1996-FTD-II dated 24 October 2016 |
1.4.1986 A.Y. 1987-88 1.4.2017 AY 2018-19 |
15 @ |
*10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
*Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt a. In case of India, the Reserve Bank of India, EXIM Bank of India or National Housing Bank b. In case of Korea, the Bank of Korea, the EXIM Bank of Korea, the Korea Development Bank, the Korea Trade Insurance Corporation or the Korea Finance Corporation and any other as may be agreed upon from time to time between the competent authorities of Contracting States. Article 26 amended – Exchange Of Information made more comprehensive LOB clause introduced – Refer Note 5 |
39. |
Kuwait 295 ITR 44 |
1.4.2008 A.Y. 2009-10 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt a. the Government, a political sub-division or a local authority b. Central Banks of India and Kuwait and any other Government agency or financial institution as may be agreed upon. For LOB Clause – Refer Note 6. |
40. |
Kyrgyz Republic 248 ITR 218 |
1.4.2002 A.Y. 2003-04 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
15 @ |
15 @ |
Interest paid to government or government F.I. or Central Bank exempt. See protocol for other articles. |
41. |
Latvia 363 ITR 177 |
1.4.2014 A.Y. 2015-16 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Interest arising and beneficially owned by the following shall be exempt (a) The Government, a political sub-division or a local authority; (b)(i) in case of India, the RBI, EXIM Bank, the NH Bank (ii) In case of Latvia, the Bank of Latvia, the Mortgage and Land Bank of Lativa and the Latvian Guarantee Agency or (c) any other similar institution, as may be agreed upon from time to time between the competent authorities of the Contracting States through exchange of letters (d) a resident of India, if the interest is paid in respect of a loan made, guaranteed or insured or a credit extended, guaranteed or insured by the Government, a political sub-division or a local authority of India or by any of the bodies mentioned in (b)(i) or (c) or (e) a resident of Latvia, if the interest is paid in respect of a loan made, guaranteed or insured or a credit extended, guaranteed or insured by the Government or a local authority of Latvia or by any of the bodies mentioned in (b) (ii) or (c). For LOB Clause – Refer Note 6. MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
42. |
Libya 137 ITR 27 |
1.4.1983 A.Y. 1984-85 |
* |
* |
* |
No separate provision |
* Dividend, interest, royalty will be taxable as per domestic law of source country. |
43. |
Lithuania 346 ITR 116 |
1.4.2013 A.Y 2014-15 |
*5 @ 15 @ |
**10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
*5% tax on dividends if at least 10% of the capital is owned by Company; in other cases 15%. ** Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt a. The Government, a political sub-division or a local authority b. (i) in case of India, the Reserve Bank of India, the EXIM Bank of India, the NH Bank and c. Any other financial institution wholly owned by the Government as agreed upon from time to time between the competent authorities of the Contracting states. For LOB Clause – Refer Note 6 MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
44. |
Luxembourg 318 ITR 9 |
1.4.2010 A.Y. 2011-12 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities exempt: a. The Government, a political sub-division or a local authority of Luxembourg b. In case of India, the RBI, EXIM and NHB c. Any other institutions as may be agreed from time to time between the competent authorities of the Contracting States. For LOB Clause – Refer Note 5. MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
45. |
Macedonia Notification No. 94/2015/F.No. 503/08/2004-FTD-I |
1.4.2015 A.Y. 2015-16 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt (a) the Government, a political sub-division or a local authority of the other Contracting state; or (b) (i) in case of India, the RBI, the EXIM Bank of India and the NH Bank or (ii) in case of Macedonia, the National Bank of Macedonia. (c) any other institution as may be agreed upon from time to time between the competent authorities of the Contracting States. For LOB Clause – Refer Note 5 |
46. |
Malaysia 353 ITR 53 |
1.4.2013 A.Y. 2014-15 |
5 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt (a) In case of Malaysia, Government of Malaysia; Government of the States; Bank Negara Malaysia, the local authorities, the statutory bodies wholly owned by the Government; EXIM Bank of Malaysia Berhad (EXIM Bank); Bank Pembangunan Malaysia Berhad (Development Bank of Malaysia Berhad); Bank Perusahaan Kecil &Sederhana Malaysia Berhad (Small & Medium Enterprise Bank of Malaysia Berhad); and Malaysia Industrial Development Finance Berhad (b) In case of India, the Government, political sub-divisions, statutory bodies wholly owned by the Government; local authorities, EXIM Bank, RBI, IFCI, IDBI, NHB, SIDBI and (c) Any other institutions as may be agreed from time to time between the competent authorities of the Contracting states. For LOB Clause – Refer Note 5 |
47. |
Malta Notification No. 34/2014/ F.No. 504/06/2003-FTD-I |
1.4.2015 A.Y 2016-17 |
10 @* |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
*As per para 1 of the protocol, under the full imputation system adopted by Malta, there is no withholding tax on dividends in addition to the tax chargeable in respect of the profits or income of the company out of which the dividends are paid. Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt (a) the Government, a political sub-division or a local authority of the other Contracting state; or (b) (i) in case of India, the RBI, the EXIM Bank of India and the NH Bank or (ii) in case of Malta, the Central Bank of Malta. (c) any other institution as may be agreed upon from time to time between the competent authorities of the Contracting states through exchange of letter For Limitation Of Benefits (‘LOB’) Clause – Refer Note 5. MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
48. |
Mauritius 146 ITR 214 243 ITR 25
[Notification No. 68/2016/F. No. 500/3/2012-FTD-II dated 10 August 2016 |
1.4.1982 A.Y. 1983-84 1.4.2017 AY 2018-19 |
5 @ 15 @ |
*7.5 @ |
15 + |
**10 @ |
5% tax on dividends if at least 10% of the capital is owned by Company, in other cases 15%. * Interest exempt if beneficially owned by Bank resident of other Contracting State carrying on bonafide banking business, This exemption shall apply only if such interest arises from debt-claims existing on or before 31 March 2017 ** Fees for Technical services clause has been introduced Capital Gains Clause amended vide protocol - No Capital Gains tax if the alienated Shares areacquired on or before 31 March 2017 Taxable in India, if the alienated Shares are acquired on or after 1 April 2017 Taxable in India if shares are acquired and alienated during the period 1 April 2017 to 31 March 2019. However, tax rate will be limited to 50 per cent of the domestic tax rate in India, subject to the fulfilment of the conditions in the Limitation Of Benefits (LOB) Article Article 26 - Exchange Of Information made more comprehensive. LOB clause introduced – Refer Note 6 |
49. |
Mexico 329 ITR 7 |
1.4.2011 A.Y. 2012-13 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
1. Interest arising in either state would be exempt from tax if it is derived / paid by the Government, political sub-division, local authority or central bank of the other state 2. Interest arising in Mexico and paid to RBI, EXIM bank and NHB will be exempt from Mexican tax. 3. Interest arising in India and paid to Banco de Mexico, Banco Nacional de Comercio Exterior, S.N.C, Nacional Financiera S.N.C. and Banco Nacional de Obras y Servicios, S.N.C. will be exempt from Indian tax. For LOB Clause – Refer Note 6 |
50. |
Mongolia 222 ITR 44 |
1.4.1994 A.Y. 1995-96 |
15 @ |
15 @ |
15 @ |
15 @ |
— |
51. |
Montenegro 308 ITR 42 |
1.4.2009 A.Y. 2010-11 |
5 @ 15 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
5% tax on dividends if at least 25% of the capital is owned by Company; in other cases 15%. Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt a. the Government, a political sub-division or a local authority; or b. RBI and the Central Bank of Montenegro. |
52. |
Morocco 243 ITR 26 |
1.4.2001 A.Y. 2002-03 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Interest exempt if beneficially owned by Government or Government owned banks. Protocol signed introducing Art. 26 dealing with Exchange of Information. |
53. |
Mozambique 335 ITR 65 |
1.4.2012 A.Y 2013-14 |
7.5 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
No separate provision * |
Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities will be exempt a. The Government, a political sub-division or a local authority b. (i) In case of India, the Reserve Bank of India, the EXIM Bank of India, the NH Bank and c. Any other institution as agreed upon from time to time between the competent authorities. *Any remuneration for technical assistance relating to the use of or the right to use the right or property referred to in the definition of property is included in the term royalty. For LOB Clause – Refer Note 6 |
54. |
Myanmar 314 ITR 6 |
1.4.2010 A.Y. 2011-12 |
5 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
No separate provision |
Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt a. the Government, a political sub-division or a local authority b. (i) in case of Myanmar, the Central Bank of Myanmar, Myanmar Foreign Trade Bank, Myanmar Investment and Commercial Bank, Myanmar Economic Bank (ii) in case of India, the RBI, EXIM Bank, NHB, SIDBI c. any other institutions as may be agreed from time to time between the competent authorities of the Contracting states. For LOB Clause – Refer Note 6 |
55. |
Namibia 236 ITR 230 |
1.4.2000 A.Y. 2001-02 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
–Unique LOB clause - Each country gets right to tax income exempted from tax in other country |
56. |
Nepal 345 ITR 128 |
1.4.2013 A.Y 2014-15 |
*5 @ 10 @ |
**10 @ |
15 @ |
No separate provision |
*5% tax on dividends if at least 10% of the capital is owned by Company; in other cases 10%. **Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt a. The Government, a political sub-division or a local authority b. (i) in case of India, the Reserve Bank of India and c. any other institution as may be agreed upon from time to time between the competent authorities of the Contracting states. For LOB Clause – Refer Note 6 |
57. |
Netherlands 177 ITR 72 239 ITR 56 350 ITR 39 |
1.4.1997 [01.04.87 for Air transport] A.Y. 1998-99 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Reduced rates for dividend and interest from 1.4.1997. Interest earned by the Government, certain institutions like the Central Banks, local authorities or institutions the capital of which is held by the Government of the respective countries etc. is exempt. Protocol replaces Article 26 - Exchange of Information to make it more comprehensive. MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
58. |
New Zealand 166 ITR 90 225 ITR 15 242 ITR 147 |
1.4.1987 A.Y. 1988-89 |
15 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Protocol restricting treaty benefits to Indian or New Zealand residents. Reduced rates come into force from 1.4.2000 and apply to A.Y. 2001-02. MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
59. |
Norway 345 ITR 157 |
1.4.2012 A.Y 2013-14 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Interest derived and beneficially owned by the following entities is taxable only in the contracting state of which the recipient is resident: a. in case of Norway.(i) the Government, political sub- division, local authority, (ii) Central Bank of Norway, (iii) the Government Pension Fund, (iv) the Norwegian Guarantee Institute for Export Credits, (v) Norfund to the extent they are wholly owned and controlled by the Government of Norway b. (in case of India, (i) the Government, political sub- division, local authority, (ii) the Reserve Bank of India, (iii) the EXIM Bank and the NH Bank to the extent they are wholly owned and controlled by the Government of India or Reserve Bank of India c. any other institution as may be agreed upon from time to time between the competent authorities of the Contracting states. For LOB Clause – Refer Note 6. MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
60. |
Oman (Sultanate of) 228 ITR 21 |
1.4.1998 A.Y. 1999-00 |
10 @ 12.5 @ |
10 @ |
15 @ |
15 @ |
10% tax on dividends if beneficial owner is company owning at least 10% of capital in payer company. 12.5% in all other cases. |
61. |
Philippines 219 ITR 60 |
1.4.1995 A.Y. 1996-97 |
15 @ 20 @ |
10 @ 15 @ |
15 @ |
No separate provision |
15% tax on dividends if at least 10% of the capital is owned by Company; in other cases 20%. Interest at 10% in hands of financial institutions, Insurance Company and also on public issues of bond, debentures, etc., and at 15% in all other cases. |
62. |
Poland 182 ITR 147 |
1.4.1990 A.Y. 1991-92 1.4.2015 A.Y 2016-17 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
15 @ |
15 @ |
Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt (i) the Government, a political sub-division or a local authority of the other Contracting state or (ii) the Central Bank of the other Contracting state. Interest derived in connection with a loan or credit extended or endorsed and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt (i) in the case of Poland, Bank GospodarstwaKrajowego (BGK), to the extent such interest is attributable to financing of exports and imports only (ii) in the case of India, the EXIM Bank of India (Exim Bank) to the extent such interest is attributable to financing of exports and imports only (iii) any institution of a Contracting State in charge of public financing of external trade (iv) any other person provided that the loan or credit is approved by the Government of the first-mentioned Contracting State. For LOB clause – Refer Note 5. MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
63. |
Portuguese Republic (Portugal) 244 ITR 57 |
1.4.2001 A.Y. 2002-03 |
10 @ 15 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10% tax on dividend if at least 25% of the capital is owned by a Company for an uninterrupted period of 2 years prior to payment of the dividend, otherwise 15% limitation of tax on interest to be settled under Mutual Agreement Procedure by competent Authorities. See protocol to the Treaty for details on other Articles. |
64. |
Qatar 242 ITR 165 |
1.4.2001 A.Y. 2002-03 |
5 @ 10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
5% tax on dividend if beneficial owner is company owning, at least 10% of capital in payer company. 10% in all other cases. MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
65. |
Romania Notification No 13/2014 F.No.501/10/1995-FTD-I |
1.4.14 A.Y 2015-16 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10@ |
Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt (a) the Government, an administrative – territorial unit political sub-division or a local authority of the other Contracting state; or (b) (i) in case of Romania, the National Bank of Romania, EXIM Bank of Romania, and (ii) in case of India, the Reserve Bank of India,EXIM Bank of India, the NH Bank, or (c) any other institutions as may be agreed upon from time to time between the competent authorities of the Contracting states through exchange of lette? For LOB Clause – Refer Note 6 |
66. |
Russian Federation 233 ITR 90 |
1.4.99 A.Y. 2000-01 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
— |
67. |
Saudi Arabia 286 ITR 87 |
1.4.2007 AY 2008-09 |
5 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
No Separate provision |
Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt (a) the Government, a political sub-division or a local authority; or (b) RBI, EXIM Bank of India, the NH Bank, the Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency (c) any other financial institutions wholly owned directly and controlled by the Government. ”Resident” includes (in case of Saudi Arabia), an Indian national who is present in Saudi Arabia for a period of at least 183 days in a fiscal year. “Zakat” is treated as a tax on income. DTA to be reviewed after 5 years for inclusion of FTS clause. |
68. |
Serbia 308 ITR 18 |
1.4.2009 A.Y. 2010-11 |
5 @ 15 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
5% tax on dividends if at least 25% of the capital is owned by Company; in other cases 15%. Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt a. The Government, a political sub-division or a local authority; or b. RBI and Central Bank or National Bank. MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
69. |
Singapore 209 ITR 1 Modified via Protocol signed pursuant to CECA 276 ITR 142 Further Modified via Protocol 337 ITR 93 Notification No. 96/2016/F. No. 500/121/1996-FTD-II dated 23 March 2017
|
1.4.1994 A.Y. 1995-96 1.4.2017 AY 2018-19 |
10 @ 15 @ |
10 @ 15 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10% tax on dividend if at least 25% of the capital is owned by co. In other cases 15%. Interest at 10% if recipient is bank, insurance co. or similar financial institution. In other cases 15%. Article on Capital Gains similar to India - Mauritius DTAA subject to satisfaction of additional conditions in the LOB clause via first Protocol dated 29th June 2005 (effective A. Y. 2006-2007). Second Protocol dated 1 September 2011 replaces Article 28- Exchange of Information to make it more comprehensive. Third protocol dated 27 February 2017 - Article on Capital Gains amended to be in line with Protocol of India – Mauritius Treaty as under Taxable in India, if the alienated Shares are acquired on or after 1 April 2017 Taxable in India if shares are acquired and alienated during the period 1 April 2017 to 31 March 2019. However, tax rate will be limited to 50 per cent of the domestic tax rate in India, subject to the fulfilment of the conditions in the Limitation Of Benefits (LOB) Article Article 26 - Exchange Of Information made more comprehensive. MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
70. |
Slovak Republic |
1.4.2000 A.Y. 2001-02 |
10@ |
10@ |
10@ |
10@ |
The Agreement signed between India and Czechoslovak Socialist Republic for the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income continues to be applicable in respect of the Slovak Republic, being one of the independent States to have succeeded the Czechoslovak Socialist Republic. MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
71. |
Slovenia 275 ITR 144 |
1.4.2006 A.Y. 2007-08 |
5 @ 15 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
5% tax on dividend if beneficial owner is company owning at least 10% of capital in payer company, 15% in all other cases. MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
72. |
South Africa 231 ITR 23 |
1.4.1998 A.Y. 1999-2000 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Protocol effective from 26 November 2014 replaces Article 28- Exchange of Information to make it more comprehensive. |
73. |
Spain 214 ITR 197 |
1.4.1996 A.Y. 1997-98 |
15 @ |
15 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Royalty payment for use of or right to use equipment was taxable at 10%, in other cases taxable rate was 20%. However, Royalties and Fees for Technical Services taxable at 10% as per lower rate specified in Indo-German DTAA w.e.f. 26-10-1996. Protocol amending treaty introduced Exchange of Information, Assitance for collection of taxes and Limitation Of Benefits (‘LOB’). For LOB clause – Refer Note 6. |
74. |
Sri Lanka 363 ITR 39 |
1.4.2014 A.Y. 2015-16 |
7.5 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Interest derived and beneficially owned by the following shall be exempt a) the Government, a political sub-division or a local authority; (b)(i) in the case of India, the RBI, Exim Bank, the NH Bank and (ii) in case of Srilanka, the Central Bank of Srilanka or (c) any other institution the capital of which is wholly owned by the Government of that state, as may be agreed upon from time to time between the competent authorities of the Contracting States through exchange of lette? Article 26 - Exchange of Information made more comprehensive. For LOB Clause – Refer Note 6. |
75. |
Sudan 271 ITR 3 |
1.4.2005 A. Y. 2006-07 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Interest or gains derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt (a) the Government, a political sub-division or a local authority; (b) in case of India, the RBI, IFCI, IDBI, NHB, SIBBI and ICICI; (c) in case of Sudan, the Bank of Sudan and the Sudanese Development Corporation; or (d) any other institution as may be agreed upon from time to time between the competent authorities of the Contracting States through exchange of letters |
76. |
Sweden 229 ITR 11 |
1.4.1998 A.Y. 1999-2000 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
— |
77. |
Swiss Confederation 214 ITR 223 248 ITR 209 Press Release dated 16 December 2016 |
1.4.1995 A.Y. 1996-97 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Extensive Modifications to many articles including P.E. come into effect from 1.4.2001. Joint declaration for implementation of Automatic Exchange Of Information signed on 22 November 2016. Notification is awaited |
78. |
Syria 312 ITR 9 |
1.4.2009 A.Y. 2010-2011 |
5 @ 10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
No separate provision |
5% tax on dividend at least 10% of capital is held by company, 10% in all other cases Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt a. The Government, a political sub-division or a local authority; or b. RBI and the Central Bank of Syria For LOB Clause – Refer Note 6. |
79. |
Tajikistan 315 ITR 1 Press Release dated 14 February 2016 |
1.4.2010 A.Y. 2011-12 |
5 @ 10 + |
10 @ |
10 @ |
No separate provision |
Dividend is taxable at 5% where the beneficial owner is a company holding at least 25% of the share capital. Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt a. The Government, a political sub-division or a local authority; or b. The RBI, EXIM Bank of India, the NH Bank (India) and the National Bank, Tajikistan. c. Any other institution agreed upon between the Contracting States. For LOB Clause – Refer Note 6. The Union Cabinet has provided approval to amend the India - Tajikistan Treaty. Notification is awaited |
80. |
Tanzania 343 ITR 5 |
1.4.2012 A.Y. 2013-14 |
*5 @ 10 @ |
**10 @ |
10 @ |
No separate provision |
*5% tax on dividends if at least 25% of the capital is owned by Company; in other cases 10% 10% Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt: a. The Government, a political sub-division or a local authority; b. (i) In case of India, RBI, EXIM Bank of India, the NH Bank and c. any other institution as agreed upon from time to time between the competent authorities of the Contracting states. For LOB Clause – Refer Note 6. |
81. |
Thailand Notification No. 88/2015/F No. 503/5/2005-FTD-II |
1.4.2016 A.Y. 2017-18 Old Treaty 161 ITR 82 effective until AY 2015-16 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
No separate provision |
Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt (a) the Government, a political sub-division or a local authority of the other Contracting state; or (b) (i) in case of India, the RBI or the EXIM Bank of India or (ii) in case of Thailand, the Bank of Thailand and EXIM Bank of Thailand (c) any other institution as may be agreed upon from time to time between the competent authorities of the Contracting States. Article 26 - Exchange of Information made more comprehensive. Protocol to Treaty covers collection of taxes, tax on disposal of profits, determination of profits attributable to a PE and Exchange of Information For LOB Clause – Refer Note 5 |
82. |
Trinidad and Tobago 240 ITR 184 |
1.4.2000 A.Y. 2001-02 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
— |
83. |
Turkey 224 ITR 145 |
1.4.1994 (notified on 03.02.97) A.Y. 1995-96 |
15 @ |
10 @ |
15 @ |
15 @ |
Interest is taxable at 10% if recipient is a bank or a financial institution, in other cases 15%. |
84. |
Turkmenistan 228 ITR 44 |
1.4.1998 A.Y. 1999-2000 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
— |
85. |
Uganda 270 ITR 83 |
1.4.2005 A. Y. 2006-07 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Interest derived and beneficially owned by following entities is exempt (a) Government, political sub-division or a local authority of the other Contracting State; or (b) the Central Bank or the other Contracting State; or any other bank, or Government financial institutions/agencies that may be mutually agreed upon between the two Contracting States. |
86. |
Ukraine 253 ITR 54 |
1.4.2002 A.Y. 2003-04 |
10 @ 15 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Dividend taxable @ 10% if at least 25% of the capital beneficially owned, otherwise @ 15%. MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
87. |
United Arab Emirates 205 ITR 49 Notification no. 282 dated 28.11.07 295 ITR 40 352 ITR 43 |
1.4.1994 A.Y. 1995-96 |
10 @ |
5 @ 12.5 @ |
10 @ |
No separate provision |
Tax on interest at 5% in cases of banks, etc. and at 12.5% in all other cases. Interest exempt in case of Government, political sub-division or a local authority and Central Banks of the two states. Protocol replaces Article 28- Exchange of Information to make it more comprehensive. For LOB Clause – Refer Note 6. MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
88. |
United Arab Republic (Egypt) 74 ITR 11 |
1.1.1970 A.Y. 1971-72 (01.01.1961 operation of aircraft) |
* |
* |
Taxable only in source country |
No separate provision |
*For rate of tax and basis of taxation refer to the DTAA provisions. |
89. |
United Kingdom 206 ITR 235 |
01.04.1994 A.Y. 1995-96 |
15 @* 10 @ |
15 @** 10 @ |
[See Note 2] |
[See Note 2] |
*Dividend taxable @15% where those dividends are paid out of income derived directly or indirectly from immovable property within the meaning of Article 6 by an investment vehicle which distributes most of this income annually and whose income from such immovable property is exempted from tax, in all other cases 10%. **Interest taxable at 10% if beneficial owner is bank which is resident, in other cases at 15%. Interest paid to following entities is exempt: a. Government, political sub-division or a local authority; b. RBI, United Kingdom Export Credits Guarantee Department, Exim bank, Export Credits and Guarantee Corporation of India. Protocol replaces Article 28- Exchange of Information to make it more comprehensive For LOB Clause – Refer Note 6. MLI effective from 1/4/2020. Please see note 1 for MLI impact. |
90. |
United States of America 187 ITR 102 |
1.4.1991 A.Y. 1992-93 |
15 @ 25 @ |
10 @ 15 @ |
[See Note 2] |
[See Note 2] |
15% tax on dividends if at least 10% of the capital is owned by Company, in other cases 25%. Interest taxable at 10% if recipient isbona fide bank or financial institution, in other cases 15%. Technical Services termed as included services. Treaty has LOB clause and P.E. Tax Articles. Protocol is very important. For LOB Clause – Refer Note 6 |
91. |
Uruguay CBDT Circular No. F.No.500/138/2002-FTD-II |
1.4.2014 A.Y. 2015-16 |
5 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
Interest arising in a Contracting State shall be exempt from tax in that State, provided that it is derived and beneficially owned by: a. The Government, a political sub-division or a local authority of the other Contracting state; or b. (i) in the case of India, the Reserve Bank of India, the EXIM Bank of India; the NH Bank and c. Any other institution as may be agreed upon from time to time between the Competent authorities of the Contracting States through exchange of lette? For LOB Clause – Refer Note 6. |
92. |
Uzbekistan 223 ITR 60 349 ITR 171 |
1.4.1993 A.Y. 1994-95 1.4.2013 A.Y 2014-15 |
15 @ 10 @ |
15 @ 10 @ |
15 @ 10 @ |
15 @ 10 @ |
*Interest received from transaction approved by source country’s Government will be exempt. In other cases normal provision of domestic tax law will apply. Protocol replaces Article 28- Exchange of Information to make it more comprehensive. For LOB Clause – Refer Note 6. |
93. |
Vietnam (Socialist Republic of Vietnam) 214 ITR 137 |
1.4.1996 A.Y. 1997-98 |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
10 @ |
— |
94. |
Zambia 146 ITR 233 |
A.Y. 1979-80 |
5 + 15 + |
10 + |
10 + |
10+ |
Dividend taxable at 5% if the recipient is a company which holds at least 25% of the shares during at least 6 months before the date of payment and at 15% in all other cases. Article 14 is titled ‘Management and Consultancy Fees’. |
Notes:
- On 25th June, 2019, India has deposited the Instrument of Ratification to OECD, Paris alongwith its Final Position in terms of Covered Tax Agreements (CTAs), Reservations, Options and Notifications under the MLI, as a result of which MLI will enter into force for India on 01st October, 2019 and its provisions will have effect on India's DTAAs from FY 2020-21 onwards. Please see note on MLI for further information.
It may be noted that to avail the lower withholding tax rate on dividend, interest, royalty and fees for technical services as per the relevant tax treaty, eligibility to claim tax treaty benefits, and therefore satisfaction of pre-requisites including satisfying beneficial ownership condition; meeting specified threshold limits; classification as per definition of various terms; satisfaction of Principal Purpose Test where applicable; etc.; now gain even more significance.
- In most cases the aforesaid rates of tax are on gross income but in some cases, tax is levied on the net income and, hence, each article of the respective agreement/s must be carefully analyzed and applied.
- In theCountry of Source, Royalties and Fees for Technical Services are taxed at following rates :
- 10% for Equipment Rental and for Services ancillary or subsidiary thereto.
- for other cases.
- during 1st 5 years of Agreement 15% if Government or Specified Organization is payer, 20% for other payers
- subsequent years, 15% in all cases Income of Government/Government Organizations exempt from Taxation in Country of Source.
- Pages referred to in citation are statute page Nos. @ - Beneficial Ownership required + - Beneficial Ownership may not be required
- The rate of tax under the Income-tax Act, 1961 (‘the Act’) on royalty or fees for technical services receivable by a foreign company is as below:
For agreements made on or after 1 April 1976 –10% (*With effect from 1 April 2016 i.e. A.Y. 2016-17)
As per Section 90(2) of the Act, this rate may be adopted if it is lower than rate under DTAA. - Separate Limitation of Benefits Article to combat treaty shopping. Anti-avoidance provisions under domestic law will override treaty
- Separate Limitation of Benefits Article to combat treaty shopping.
- Taxability of Dividend:
With effect from 1 April 2020, Dividend from shares and units received shall be taxable in the hands of shareholder (residents and non-residents) under the Act. Non-resident shareholders can access treaty for rate reliefwherever applicable. Please note that generally dividend article in most of the treaties does not include relief for units, hence need to analyse treaty relief accordingly.
- Access to treaty benefit:
To claim treaty benefit, it is mandatory to have following documents in place:
- Valid Tax Residency Certificate for the period in which income is earned;
- Duly filled Form 10F along with supporting documents;
- No permanent establishment certificate;
- Declaration as required to support the claims made by the non-resident earner;
It should be noted that documents do not replace scrutiny that a deductor needs to make of the facts claimed by the payee before providing relief under a treaty.
- Tax compliance requirements:
Information is required to be submitted by the payer as per rule 37BB by filing appropriate Forms – Form 15CA, Form 15CB and/or Form 15CC as the case may be.
TDS return needs to be filed for deduction of tax at source.
Also, with effect from 1.4.2020, non-residents/foreign companies who are not required to file tax return in India as per Section 115A(5)can continue to enjoy the relief provided taxes are withheld at rate not lower than the rate prescribed under section 115A(1)(a) or (b), i.e., tax rate plus surcharge and cess.
- The positions in this rate chart are as per notifications issued till 19th May 2020. The document is only a guidance towards the rates as per the treaties read along with various provisions. The document should not be taken as advice and practitioners are advised to go through the relevant DTAA and its provisions for deciding on final rate applicable. BCAS does not advocate using this document as an opinion on the aspects mentioned therein.
- List of important Circulars on DTAA and Income of Non Residents in India:
Circular / Notification No. & Date |
Reference |
Matter |
---|---|---|
No. 5 DT. 28-09-2004: |
270 ITR (St.) 0031 |
Taxation of business process outsourcing units of Non-Residents in India. (Revised, withdrawing Circular No. 1 dated 02-01-2004 [265 ITR (St.) 0023]) |
No. 1 of 2004 DT. 02-01-2004: |
265 ITR (St.) 0023 |
Taxation of business process outsourcing units of Non-Residents in India. |
No. 1 of 2003 DT. 10-02-2003: |
260 ITR (St.) 0245 |
Residential status under Indo Mauritian Tax Treaty. |
No. 10 DT. 09-10-2002 |
258 ITR (St.) 9 |
Submission of No Objection Certificate in case of remittance to a non-resident |
No 787 DT. 10-02-2000 |
243 ITR (St.) 1 |
Taxation of income of artists, entertainers, sportsmen etc. from international/local events. |
No. 742 DT. 02-05-1996: No. 765 DT. 15-04-1998: No. 6/2001, dated 5-3-2001 |
219 ITR (St.) 0049 231 ITR (St.) 0010 248 ITR (St.) 247 |
Taxation of foreign telecasting companies. |
No. 740 DT. 17-04-1996: |
219 ITR (St.) 0008 |
Taxability of remittance of interest by Branch of a foreign bank to its head office. |
No. 734 DT. 24-01-1996: |
217 ITR (St.) 0074 |
Rates of TDS under DTAA between India & U.A.E. |
No. 728 DT. 30-10-1995: |
216 ITR (St.) 0141A |
Clarification regarding rate of TDS u/s. 195 for remittance, clarified that such rates shall be as provided in relevant Finance Act or in DTAA whichever is more beneficial to the assessee. |
No. 588 DT. 02-01-1991: |
187 ITR (St.) 0063 |
Taxability of import of system software from Non Residents. |
No. 333 DT. 02-04-1982: |
137 ITR (St.) 0001B |
A conflict in application of DTAA and provisions of Income-tax Act, 1961, clarified that beneficial provision shall apply. |
No. 108 DT. 20-03-1973: |
|
In relation to exchange of information between the countries for preventing evasion or avoidance of taxes and recovery thereof. |
Nos. 90 and 91/ 2008 DT 28-08-2008 |
304 ITR 63 |
Where treaty provides that any income of an Indian Resident “may be taxed” in the other country, such income shall be included in the total Income of such resident and relief shall be available as per DTAA. |
CBDT Instruction No. 3 /2004 dated 19-03-2004 |
|
Suspension of collection of taxes during operation of Mutual Agreement Procedure in respect of India-UK DTAA |
Circular No.7/2009 [F .No. 500/135/2007-FTD-I] dated 22 October 2009 |
318 ITR 1 |
Circular No 23 dated 23rd July 1969 and Circular No 163 dated 29th May, 1975 (both relating to taxability and accrual of Income of Non-resident in India) are withdrawn. Further, Circular No. 786 dated 7th February 2000 (relating to clarification of taxability of export commission in the hands of non-resident in India) is also withdrawn |
Circular No.7 dated 23 October 2007 amended on 27 September 2011 |
338 ITR 1 |
The CBDT has laid down the procedure for refund of tax deducted at source under Section 195 of the Income-tax Act, 1961 to the person deducting tax at source from the payment to a non-resident. Refund will now be available to residents who have deducted tax at a higher rate, relying on a Tax Treaty, while a lower rate of tax deduction has been prescribed under domestic law. |
Notification No.57/2013/F.No.142/16/2013-TPL |
356 ITR 21 |
The CBDT has amended Rule 21AB of Income Tax Rules, 1962. As per the amendment, subject to provisions of Section 90 and 90A of the Act, if the TRC doesn’t contain specified details viz. status of the taxpayer, country of registration, PAN, tax identification number etc.; non-resident taxpayer to furnish the same through Form 10F. |
Notification No. 93/2009 dated 9 December 2009 |
320 ITR 14 |
“The territory in which the taxation law administered by the Ministry of Finance in Taipei is applied” has been notified as ‘Specified Territory’ and “India-Taipei Association in Taipei” and “Taipei Economic and Cultural Centre in New Delhi” have been notified as ‘Specified Association’ under Section 90A of the Income-tax Act, 1961. |
Notification No. 22/2010/F. No. 142/5/2010-SO(TPL) dated 8 April 2010 |
323 ITR 52 |
The following areas outside India have been notified as ‘Specified territory’ under Section 90 of the Income-tax Act, 1961:
|
Notification No. 25/2010 [F. No. 500/124/97-FTD-II], dated 20 April 2010 |
323 ITR 52 |
Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China has been notified as ‘Specified territory’ under Section 90 of the Income-tax Act, 1961 |
Notification No. 54/2012 [F. No. 503/14/2012-FTD-I(PT), dated 17 December 2012 |
350 ITR 4 |
Sint Maarten, a part of Kingdom of Netherlands, has been notified as ‘Specified territory’ under Section 90 of the Income-tax Act, 1961 |
Notification No F.No.504/05/2003-FTD-I |
359 ITR 8 |
Cyprus has been notified as ‘notified jurisdictional area’ under Section 94A of the Income-tax Act, 1961 |
Notification No.03/2011-FTD-II [F .No. 500/96/97-FTD_II] dated 10 January 2011 |
330 ITR 6 |
Agreement among Governments of SAARC Member States for avoidance of double taxation and mutual administrative matters is effective from 1st April 2011 |
Notification No. 05/2011/F.No.503/2/2009-FTD-I |
330 ITR 83 |
Tax Information Exchange Agreement between India and Bermuda signed on 7th October 2010 |
Notification No. 25/2011/F. No. 503/6/2009-FTD-I |
334 ITR 296 |
Tax Information Exchange Agreement between India and Bahamas signed on 11th February 2011 |
Notification No. 26/2011/F. No. 503/01/2008-FTD-I |
334 ITR 313 |
Tax Information Exchange Agreement between India and Isle of Man was signed on 4 February 2011 |
Notification No .54/2011/F. No. 503/10/2009-FTD-I |
338 ITR 25 332 ITR 4 |
Tax Information Exchange Agreement between India and British Virgin Islands signed on 9 February 2011 Press Note / Release No. 402/92/2006-MC (43 of 2011) |
Notification No. 61/2011/F. No. 503/03/2009-FTD-I |
340 ITR 1 |
Tax Information Exchange Agreement between India and Cayman Islands was signed on 21st March 2011 |
Notification No. 26/2012/F. No. 503/6/2008-FTD-I |
346 ITR 1 |
Tax Information Exchange Agreement between India and Jersey was signed on 3st November 2011 |
Notification No. 30/2012/F. No. 503/01/2009-FTD-I |
346 ITR 169 |
Tax Information Exchange Agreement between India and Guernsey was signed on 20 December 2011 |
Notification No. 32/2012-FT-TR-II/F.No.503/02/2010-FT&TR-II |
348 ITR 132 |
Tax Information Exchange Agreement between India and Liberia was signed on 3st October 2011 |
Notification No.43/2012-FT&TR-II/F.No.503/04/2009-FT&TR-II |
349 ITR 3 |
Tax Information Exchange Agreement between India and Macao Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China was signed on 03 January 2012 |
Notification No. 22/2013/504/3/2010 FTD-II |
352 ITR 46 |
Tax Information Exchange Agreement between India and Argentina was signed on 21st November 2011. |
Notification No. 28/2013[F.No.503/11/2009-FTD-I |
352 ITR 58 |
Tax Information Exchange Agreement between India and Gibraltar was signed on 1st February 2013. |
Notification No. 43/2013/F. No. 503/4/2009 – FTD-I. |
355 ITR 197 |
Tax Information Exchange Agreement between India and Monaco was signed on 31st July 2012. |
Notification No. 3/2014/F. No. 503/4/2012-FTD-I |
360 ITR 44 |
Tax Information Exchange Agreement between India and Belize was signed on 18th September 2013. |
Notification No. 44/2013/F.No.501/03/1994-FT&TR-II dated 19 June 2013 |
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Tax Information Exchange Agreement between India and Bahrain was signed on 31st May 2012. |
Notification No. 30/2014/F. No. 503/4/2009-FTD-I dated 6 June 2014 |
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Tax Information Exchange Agreement between India and the Principality of Liechtenstein was signed on 28th March 2013. |
Notification No. 63/15/F.No.500/02/2003-FTD-I dated 12 August 2015 |
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Tax Information Exchange Agreement between India and San Marino signed on 29th August 2014. |
Notification No. 48/2011/F. No. 500/02/2001/FTD-II |
337 ITR 96 |
Agreement between India – Taipei Association In Taipei and Taipei Economic and Cultural Center in New Delhi for Avoidance of Double Taxation and the prevention of Fiscal Evasion with respect to Taxes on Income shall be effective from 1st April 2012. The Agreement notifies the following rates for taxes on income:-
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Notification No. 77/2015/F.No.500/137/2011/-FTD-I dated 30 September 2015 |
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Memorandum of Understanding between India and United States of America to improve International Tax Compliance and to implement Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (‘FATCA’) of the United States of America. The provisions of the said Agreement will be given effect from 31st August 2015. |
Notification No. 62/2016 F. No. 503/09/2009-FTD-I dated 21 July 2016 |
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Tax Information Exchange Agreement between India and Saint Kitts and Nevis signed on 11 November 2014. |
Notification No. 77/2016/F.No.503/4/2013-SO/FT&TR-II(1) dated 2 September 2016 |
387 ITR 190 |
Agreement between India and Maldives for avoidance of double taxation of income derived from international air transport signed on 11 April 2016. |
Notification No. 80/2016/F. No. 503/07/1993-FT&TR-IV dated 8 September 2016 |
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Tax Information Exchange Agreement between India and Seychelles signed on 26 August 2015. |
Notification No. So 2826(E) [No.82/2017 (500/5/2009-Ftd-Ii)], Dated 30-8-2017 |
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Amendment of Art. 26 dealing with Exchange of Information in DTAA between India and Vietnam |
Notification No. So 3452(E) [No.90/2017 (F.No.501/04/1992-Ftd-I], Dated 27-10-2017 |
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Amendment of Art. 26 dealing with Exchange of Information in DTAA between India and Slovenia |
Notification No. So 3512(E) [No.93/2017 (F.No.501/1/83/-Ftd.Ii)], Dated 2-11-2017 |
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Amendment of Art. 26 dealing with Exchange of Information in in DTAA between India and New Zealand |
Notification No. So 93(E) [F.No.500/101/2006-Ft&Tr-V], Dated 4-1-2018 |
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Amendment of Art. 26 dealing with Exchange of Information in in DTAA between India and Brazil |
Notification No. So 1328(E) [No.15/2018 (F.No.503/10/95-Ftd-Ii)], Dated 23-3-2018 |
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Amendment of Article 26 for Exchange of Information in DTAA between India and TAJIKISTAN |
Notification No. So 1589(E) [No.20/2018 (F.No.501/06/94-Ftd-Ii)], Dated 12-4-2018 |
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Various changes in DTAA between India and Kazakhstan |
NOTIFICATION NO.4724(E) [NO.43/2018 (F.NO.503/05/1) Dated – 11/09/2018 |
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Amendment of Article 26 for Exchange of Information in DTAA between India and Portugal. |
NOTIFICATION NO. SO 2562(E) [NO.54/2019 (F.NO.503) Dated 17/07/2019 |
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Various changes in DTAA between India and China. |
Notification No. 57/2019/F. No. 500/71/2015-FTD-I dated 09/08/2019 |
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Notification of the Multilateral Convention to Implement Tax Treaty Related Measures toPrevent Base Erosion and Profit Shifting |
Notification No. 58/2019/F. No. 503/02/1986-FTD-I dated 27/08/2019 |
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Various changes in DTAA between India and Spain. |
Notification No.84/2019/F. No. 503/09/2009-FTD-II dated 22/10/2019 |
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Introduction of Art. 26 dealing with Exchange of Information in DTAA between India and Morocco. |
Notification No. 14/2020 F.No.503/02/2012-FTD-II dated 04/03/2020 |
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Agreement for the Exchange of Information and Assistance in Collection of taxes between India and Brunei signed on 28th February 2019 |
Notification No.22/F.No. 505/01/1982-FTD-I (Pt.) dated 24/04/2020 |
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Protocol amending the DTAA between India and Austria for inserting Articles for Exchange of Information and Assistance in Collection of taxes signed on 6th February 2017 |
Notification No. 23/2020/F.No. 370142/31/2019-TPL |
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Amendment of Mutual Agreement Procedure (MAP) laid down in the Income-tax Rules, 1962 |