10 February 2011
Sir the assessee wants to remit money from abroad from a known person. He wants to show it as loan. Please tell the legal complications involved and forms to be filled. Some one has told him to fill Form 35 A 12. But i was not able to locate this form. Please guide and help.
24 July 2024
Under FEMA (Foreign Exchange Management Act), remitting money from abroad to India and treating it as a loan involves certain legal considerations and regulatory requirements. Here’s a detailed explanation:
### Legal Considerations:
1. **Definition of Loan under FEMA:** - According to FEMA regulations, a loan is defined as any money borrowed or owed to be paid in the future, whether secured or unsecured. For remittance to be treated as a loan, it should conform to this definition.
2. **Sources of Loan:** - The loan can be received from a non-resident or from a person in India who is permitted by FEMA to lend in foreign exchange. Loans from individuals who are not permitted by FEMA to lend in foreign exchange may attract regulatory scrutiny.
3. **Regulatory Compliance:** - Loans from non-residents must comply with FEMA guidelines, which include reporting requirements and may sometimes require prior approval depending on the nature of the loan and the sector involved. - Loans from persons in India should also comply with RBI guidelines to ensure that they do not contravene any provisions under FEMA.
4. **Forms to be Filled:** - **Form A2:** This form is typically used for remittances made for any purpose other than imports. It is submitted by the remitter to the authorized dealer (bank) through which the remittance is made. This form requires details such as the purpose of remittance, amount, and beneficiary details. - **Loan Agreement:** A formal loan agreement should be executed between the lender and borrower detailing the terms of the loan, including repayment schedule, interest rate (if applicable), and other relevant conditions. - **Reporting:** Depending on the amount and nature of the loan, certain reports or declarations may need to be submitted to RBI or the authorized dealer bank.
### Procedure:
1. **Documentation:** - Obtain a loan agreement outlining the terms of the loan, signed by both parties. - Ensure the agreement complies with FEMA regulations, including any applicable interest rates and repayment schedules.
2. **Remittance and Reporting:** - The remittance should be made through proper banking channels, and Form A2 should be filled out and submitted to the authorized dealer bank. - If the loan exceeds certain thresholds or requires prior approval, additional forms or permissions may be necessary.
3. **Compliance with FEMA:** - Ensure that the transaction complies with all FEMA regulations, including any restrictions or guidelines related to foreign exchange transactions.
### Form 35 A 12:
- There seems to be confusion regarding Form 35 A 12. It might be a local reference or a typographical error. Typically, Form A2 is used for outward remittances not related to imports. It’s crucial to follow the correct forms and procedures as outlined by RBI and FEMA guidelines.
### Advice:
- **Consultation:** It’s highly recommended to consult with a qualified chartered accountant or legal advisor who specializes in FEMA compliance to ensure all regulatory requirements are met. - **Documentation:** Maintain detailed records of all transactions and communications related to the loan to facilitate compliance during audits or inquiries.
By adhering to the regulatory framework and seeking expert advice, the assessee can ensure that the remittance and treatment of funds as a loan from abroad comply with all applicable laws and regulations under FEMA.