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Understanding DTAA Between India and Germany

Updated on: 08 Aug, 2024 02:20 PM

The Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) between India and Germany has played a crucial role in improving economic ties. Prior to its introduction, citizens of both countries had to pay taxes twice on the same income in different countries, which made it difficult to invest and work in foreign countries. This agreement aimed to eliminate such tax-related obstacles, encouraging cross-border investments and trade. In this guide, we will learn about the intricacies of DTAA between India and Germany.

What is DTAA Between India and Germany?

DTAA between India and Germany was first signed in 1991 when only a few German states were included in it. Later, in 1993, 5 new states were added to the DTAA. The articles of this contract are applicable to the countries getting into this contract, i.e., India and Germany.

DTAA between India and Germany consists of 28 sections that focus on eliminating double taxation on foreign income. This agreement helps taxpayers claim tax benefits in the form of returns and exemptions on foreign income.


What is the Importance of India-Germany DTAA for Both Countries?

This agreement was created with the aim of making sure that the citizens working on foreign lands and earning foreign income are taxed fairly. Here’s why the DTAA between India and Germany is significant -

  • The citizens of both countries are eligible to avail of the benefits of the DTAA between India and Germany.
  • It encourages taxpayers to pay taxes on time and consistently, thereby reducing the instances of tax evasion.
  • DTAA between India and Germany implements a bilateral relief system on the income tax rates. Tax relief is provided through exemption, deduction, and tax credit methods.
  • This agreement helps improve the trade and employment relations between both countries and encourages foreign investment.
  • Section 90A of the DTAA between India and Germany is applicable to those taxpayers who want to claim the benefits of this agreement. It provides bilateral tax relief for individuals who are non-resident Indians earning in foreign (German) currency.
  • DTAA between India and Germany also covers the students living in Germany. Article 20 of the India-Germany DTAA allows them to claim tax benefits on their benefits.
  • Tax relief is available on all incomes mentioned in the agreement in both countries.
  • Want to claim tax relief on your income in India? Book a tax consultation now!

What is the Scope of DTAA Between India and Germany?

Foreign investors in India can be classified into different categories. Given below are the types of foreign investors in India -

  • Residence-Based Taxation: It ensures that the citizens of both countries do not have to pay tax twice on the same income. Therefore, tax is levied on the basis of the residential status of an individual.
  • Dividends, Interest, and Royalties: DTAA between India and Germany states the rules and regulations for the taxation of interest, royalties, and dividends received by the residents of both countries without having to pay double tax.
  • Capital Gains: This agreement also provides for the taxation of capital gains arising from the sale of shares, real estate, and assets. It makes sure that the tax system is fair and does not involve double taxation.
  • Exchange of Information: The agreement allows the exchange of information between both countries to prevent evasion of taxes and ensure that the citizens stay compliant with tax laws.
  • Business Profits: DTAA between India and Germany also provides for the taxation of business profits earned by companies in both countries. Its provisions are focused on ensuring that they are taxed fairly.

Taxes Covered under DTAA

The Double Tax Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) between India and Germany provides tax relief for various income sources, considering taxes applicable in either India, Germany, or both. The DTAA encompasses the following types of taxes:

In the Federal Republic of Germany (German Tax):

  • Income tax
  • Capital tax
  • Trade tax
  • Corporation tax

In the Republic of India (Indian Tax):

  • Income tax
  • Additional taxes
  • Wealth tax
  • Surcharge taxes under Indian income tax slabs

Additionally, any other taxes that fall under similar categories are included in the DTAA.

NRIs must file their income tax returns in India to

DTAA Between India and Germany TDS Rates

Given below are the tax rates for different types of income sources -

  • Fees for Technical Services and Royalty
    Article 12 of DTAA between India and Germany defines royalties as payments received as consideration for using any copyrighted literary, artistic, scientific, cinematographic, patent, trademark, secret formula, scientific, or commercial equipment.
    Royalties earned in India by a German resident are subject to tax in India @10%. However, if this income is earned through a permanent establishment, then such income will be taxed at the applicable slab rate, i.e., 40%.
  • Dividend Income
    Article 10 of DTAA between India and Germany defines dividend income as -
    The dividend earned from shares includes share income, rights shares, mining shares, and founder’s shares.
    If the person receiving the dividend is a resident of Germany and the owner of the shares, then the tax rate should not exceed 10% of the gross value of the dividend.
  • Interest
    As per Article 11 of the DTAA between India and Germany, interest income includes income from bonds/debentures, government securities, and the premiums and prizes associated with such securities.
    However, penalty charges for late payment are not considered as interest.
    Such interest earned by a German resident in India is taxable in India @10%. However, if a permanent establishment earns this interest income, then it is taxed at 40%.
  • Independent Personal Services
    Article 14 of the DTAA between India and Germany defines professional services as teaching, artistic, and literary activities performed by physicians, lawyers, artists, teachers, surgeons, engineers, architects, accountants, etc, are
    Professional services earnings by a German resident will be taxable in India only if they have a fixed base in India for performing their professional activities and if they fulfill the residential status criteria for the same.
  • Tax on Capital Gains
    Immovable Property: If a resident of Germany sells property in India, the profit may be subject to Indian taxation.
    Movable Property: If a German business in India sells business-related movable property or if a resident of Germany sells movable property connected to a fixed base in India, the profit could be taxed in India.
    Sale of Securities: Profits from selling shares in a German-resident company are taxable in Germany.

The India-Germany Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) has been a vital catalyst in strengthening economic relations. Established in 1991 and expanded over the years, it eliminates double taxation hurdles, encouraging cross-border investments and trade. The DTAA promotes fair taxation for citizens working abroad, reduces tax evasion, and fosters foreign investment. It is important to understand the various aspects of DTAA between India and Germany to maximize the benefits of this agreement. It can be difficult for normal people to understand this complex law. Therefore, it is the best idea to get expert consultation from qualified CAs.

Don’t know how and where to report this income in ITR? Get in touch with our tax experts. Book eCA Now!


Frequently Asked Questions

Q- How to avoid double taxation in Germany?

If a Double Tax Treaty (DTT) is in place, double taxation is typically prevented by exempting the foreign income with progression. Foreign income taxes can be credited against German income tax only if the applicable DTT provides for a tax credit or if no DTT exists.


Q- What is the withholding tax in India Germany?

A tax of 15.83% (comprising 15% plus a 5.5% solidarity surcharge) is withheld from gross royalties paid to non-residents. Starting 1 July 2021 reduced withholding tax rates or exemptions are not applicable to royalty payments made to EU-listed non-cooperative jurisdictions.


Q- Do I need to pay tax if I transfer money to India from Germany?

As an NRI, the money you send to India is not subject to taxation. However, the recipient in India, if a resident, will face tax implications on the received funds.


Q- How much money can I send to my parents in India from Germany?

According to the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), any designated family member can receive money without being liable for tax. There is also no limit on the amount you can send to your parents. Under FEMA rules, any amount sent as a gift to eligible relatives is tax-free.


CA Abhishek Soni
CA Abhishek Soni

Abhishek Soni is a Chartered Accountant by profession & entrepreneur by passion. He is the co-founder & CEO of Tax2Win.in. Tax2win is amongst the top 25 emerging startups of Asia and authorized ERI by the Income Tax Department. In the past, he worked in EY and comes with wide industry experience from telecom, retail to manufacturing to entertainment where he has handled various national and international assignments.