Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) is a treaty signed between two or more countries to help taxpayers avoid paying double taxes on the same income. When an individual or business earns income in a foreign country, DTAA ensures they do not get taxed in both countries. India has signed DTAA with over 90 countries, including the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, UAE, and Singapore.

Why is DTAA Important?
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Prevents Double Taxation: Avoids tax liabilities in two countries.
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Tax Relief: Reduces the overall tax burden.
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Boosts Cross-Border Trade: Encourages investment and trade.
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Avoids Tax Evasion: Ensures transparency and legal compliance.
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Provides Clarity: Defines tax rates and liabilities for foreign entities.
Types of Relief Under DTAA

1
Exemption Method
Income is taxed in only one country.
2
Tax Credit Method
Tax paid in a foreign country is deducted from the tax payable in the home country.
DTAA Tax Rates in India (Country-wise)
Here are some tax rates under DTAA for commonly transacted countries:
Country | Interest | Royalty | Fees for Technical Services (FTS) | Dividend |
|---|---|---|---|---|
USA | 15% | 10% | 10% | 15% |
UK | 15% | 10% | 10% | 10% |
UAE | 12.5% | 10% | 10% | 10% |
Canada | 15% | 10% | 10% | 15% |
Australia | 15% | 10% | 10% | 15% |
DTAA Compliance & Return Filing Process
Step 1: Determine DTAA Eligibility
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Check if India has a DTAA with the country where income is earned.
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Determine the applicable tax rate.
Step 2: Obtain a Tax Residency Certificate (TRC)
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Apply to the tax authorities in the resident country.
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Ensure TRC has all required details such as name, status, country, tax ID, and period of tax residency.
Step 3: Submit Form 10F
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A mandatory form for claiming DTAA benefits.
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Filed online via the Income Tax e-filing portal.
Step 4: File Income Tax Return (ITR) in India
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Report foreign income and claim DTAA benefits.
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Use Form 67 for claiming foreign tax credit (FTC).
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Ensure all documents are attached.
Step 5: Maintain Necessary Documentation
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TRC, Form 10F, proof of tax paid abroad, income statement.
Need help with DTAA compliance? Talk to our Experts
Timeline for DTAA Compliance & Return Filing
Task | Timeline |
|---|---|
Obtain TRC | 2-4 weeks |
File Form 10F |
Instant (Online) |
File Form 67 | Before ITR due date |
File ITR with DTAA benefits | 31st July (Individuals) / 30th September (Companies) |

Documents Required for DTAA Benefits
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Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) from the foreign country.
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Form 10F (filed online on the Income Tax portal).
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PAN Card (for Indian taxpayers).
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Foreign Tax Payment Proof (if tax has been paid abroad).
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Income Statement (salary, capital gains, dividends, etc.).
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Bank Statements (for verifying foreign income).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Not obtaining a Tax Residency Certificate (TRC).
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Filing Form 10F incorrectly.
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Missing Form 67 for Foreign Tax Credit.
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Incorrect reporting of foreign income.
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Delaying ITR filing, leading to penalties.
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