A Gift Deed — a document by which an NRI voluntarily transfers property to a family member without consideration — is a common estate planning tool used by NRIs to transfer Kerala property during their lifetime. It avoids the probate process on death (since the property passes immediately on the gift), reduces the complexity of succession for multiple heirs, and can be structured as a conditional gift (for example, gifting a house to a child on the condition that the NRI retains the right to occupy it during their lifetime). In Kerala, gift deeds are subject to stamp duty, registration at the Sub-Registrar's office, and FEMA compliance considerations where the donor is an NRI.
For detailed guidance on this topic specific to your circumstances, the office is available at luka@lukeandluka.in or +91 96057 61330, Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM IST. Remote consultations — by video call, WhatsApp or email — are available for NRIs and OCI holders in all time zones.