General Taxes in India

An overview of the taxes which may be encountered while living and travelling in India…

India has a well-developed system of taxation through the central and state governments. Local councils and municipal bodies also often levy minor taxes. The main taxes include:

• Central government: Income tax; excise duties; customs duties; service tax; gift tax; wealth tax
• State government: Value added tax; stamp duty; luxury tax; entertainment tax; motor vehicles tax; tolls
• Municipal/local authorities: Property tax

Follow the links above for an overview of the taxes in each group. The organisations below also provide useful information:

• Business Portal of India: provides detailed information on taxes in India for individuals and businesses. It also provides links to the relevant official documents for each tax category. For more details: Click here
• Central Board of Excise and Customs: official government website that provides detailed information about customs policies, import/export duties and useful tips for residents and tourists. For more details: Click here
• National Portal of India: a comprehensive website that provides detailed information on taxes. It also has links to the relevant official documents and forms for each tax category. For more information: Click here
• For an overview of the taxes levied on motor vehicles: Click here

• Central Government
• State Government
• Local Authorities