The Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement, or DTAA, between India and France, is a formal treaty designed to prevent individuals and businesses from being taxed on the same income in both nations. This agreement is crucial for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), investors, and companies operating across these two countries. It establishes clear rules for taxation, offers tax credits, and specifies lower tax rates on certain incomes, thereby encouraging smoother trade and investment flows and ensuring a fair and predictable tax environment for everyone involved. This bilateral convention is a cornerstone of the economic relationship between the two nations, providing stability and clarity for taxpayers.
DTAA Between India and France - Quick Information
For a quick reference, the table below summarises the essential details of the tax treaty established between India and the French Republic.
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| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Agreement Name | Agreement for the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion concerning Taxes on Income and on Capital. |
| Countries Involved | The Republic of India and the French Republic. |
| Last Updated | The agreement has been amended by protocols to stay current with international standards. |
| Year Signed | |
| Income Types Covered | Income from salary, property, business profits, capital gains, dividends, interest, royalties, and fees for technical services. |
| Key Forms | Form 10F, Tax Residency Certificate (TRC). Understanding forms like Form 15CA and 15CB for NRIs |
| Tax Relief Methods | Primarily the Credit Method, where tax paid in one country is credited against tax due in the other. The Exemption Method may apply in specific cases. |
| Common TDS Rate | |
| Authority Handling DTAA | Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) in India and the Ministry of Economy and Finance in France. |
| Applies To | Residents (individuals and companies) of India and/or France. |
| Governing Bodies | The respective tax departments of the Government of India and the Government of France. |
Objective of the DTAA Between India and France
The primary objective of the India-France DTAA is to eliminate the burden of double taxation, where the same income could be taxed in both countries. This treaty aims to foster greater economic cooperation, trade, and investment between the two nations. It also provides a framework for preventing tax evasion and ensures a fair and equitable system for taxing cross-border income for residents of both countries.
Key Features of India-France DTAA
The agreement has several essential features that define its application and benefits for taxpayers. Let's explore the key aspects of the DTAA between France and India.
Scope of the agreement
Who can claim DTAA benefits (residents, companies, trusts, etc.)?
What are the Tax Relief Methods Used in India-France DTAA?
Under this approach, if a resident of India earns income in France, India will allow a deduction from its tax based on the tax paid in France. Similarly, France provides a credit for taxes paid in India. For certain types of income, the exemption method may be used, where one country relinquishes its right to tax the income entirely. Understanding the general income tax rules for NRIs
DTAA Rates Between India and France
| Income Type | DTAA Tax Rate | Article Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Dividends | 10% of the gross amount | Article 11 |
| Interest | 10% of the gross amount | Article 12 |
| Royalties and Fees for Technical Services | 10% of the gross amount | Article 13 |
| Business Profits (if no Permanent Establishment) | Taxable only in the country of residence | Article 7 |
What are the Documents required to claim DTAA TDS
To benefit from the lower Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) rates under the DTAA between India and France, a non-resident must provide specific documents to the payer.
- Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) from the home country's tax authorities.
- Self-attested copy of the Permanent Account Number (PAN) Card.
- A completed and signed Form 10F.
How to Claim DTAA Benefits?
Claiming the benefits of the DTAA involves following specific procedures depending on your country of residence and where the income is earned.
In India (for Indian residents earning in France)
- Declare Global Income: When you file your annual NRI income tax return
- Provide Proof of Tax Paid:
- File Form 67:
- Claim Credit in ITR: In your Income Tax Return (ITR), you can then claim a credit for the taxes paid in France. This credit will be set off against your Indian tax liability, ensuring you do not pay tax twice on the same earnings. You may also want to understand the difference between NRE and NRO accounts
In France (for NRIs earning in India)
- Submit Residency Proof in India:
- Ensure Lower TDS Deduction: Once these documents are submitted, the Indian entity (like a bank paying interest or a company paying dividends) will deduct tax at the concessional rate specified in the DTAA between India and France TDS rates, which is typically 10%. Obtaining a lower TDS certificate for NRIs
- Report in French Tax Return: When you file your taxes in France, you must report the income earned from India.
- Claim Tax Credit in France: You can then claim a tax credit in France for the taxes that were deducted in India, in accordance with French domestic tax laws and the provisions of the DTAA. For managing assets, a good NRI power of attorney guide
DTAA TDS Rate Chart (2026) – India-France
| Nature of Payment | Recipient (Resident of France) | TDS Rate under DTAA |
|---|---|---|
| Dividends | Company or Individual | 10% |
| Interest | Company or Individual | 10% |
| Royalties | Company or Individual | 10% |
| Fees for Technical Services (FTS) | Company or Individual | 10% |
| Sale of Property by an NRI | Company or Individual | Governed by the Capital Gains article. Refer to specific tax rules like TDS on sale of property by an NRI. |
DTAA Impact on NRIs and Investors
The DTAA between India and France has a significant positive impact on NRIs and investors by providing tax certainty and reducing the cost of cross-border business.
- Reduced Tax Burden: NRIs in France earning rental income from India can offset Indian taxes against French liabilities, avoiding double taxation and lowering overall costs. This is key in financial planning for those owning overseas property, and many seek specialized NRI property services owners
- Lower Withholding Taxes: The agreement caps TDS at 10% on dividends, interest, and royalties, avoiding higher domestic taxes without DTAA. This lower rate improves cash flow and investment profitability. The taxation rules for NRO accounts
- Clarity on Capital Gains: Article 14 states that gains from selling immovable property are taxed where the property is located, clarifying rules and aiding NRIs’ tax planning. NRIs should conduct legal due diligence before investing in Indian real estate
- Encourages Investment and Business: The France-India DTAA provides a stable tax environment, preventing double taxation on profits, boosting confidence in Indian operations. It also encourages NRIs to invest in India, including in top cities for NRI property investment
- Prevention of Tax Evasion:
How NoBroker Can Help with NRI Services?
Navigating the complexities of the DTAA between India and France can be challenging, especially for NRIs managing properties or investments. NoBroker offers specialized NRI services to simplify this process. From property management and rental assistance to legal support and tax compliance, our experts ensure your investments are handled efficiently. We can assist with documentation and guidance on matters such as TDS and capital gains, making your cross-border transactions seamless and compliant.

