How Are Seafarers Taxed In India?

Indian seafarers earn a significant portion of their income working on foreign-flagged vessels. Taxation of this income is governed by the Income Tax Act, 1961, along with rules issued by the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) and international treaties. The tax liability depends largely on the seafarer’s residential status, source of income, and applicable exemptions. Special provisions exist to avoid double taxation and to promote the shipping industry and workforce.

Taxation of Seafarers in India

1. Determining Residential Status

Tax liability on global income depends on whether the seafarer is resident or non-resident in India.

A person is resident if:

• They stay in India for 182 days or more during a financial year, OR
• They stay for 60 days in the year and 365 days in the preceding four years combined.

Special relaxation for seafarers working on foreign vessels: The 60 days condition is extended to 182 days under CBDT circulars, recognizing their overseas work pattern.

Non-resident seafarers are taxable only on income earned or received in India.

2. Tax Treatment of Income Earned on Foreign Vessels

Income earned aboard foreign ships by Indian seafarers is considered foreign-sourced income.

If the seafarer qualifies as a non-resident under Indian tax law, their salary earned outside India is exempt from Indian income tax as per Section 10(6)(vi) of the Income Tax Act.

Even if a seafarer is resident but meets conditions under various circulars, part or full income may be exempt.

3. Taxation of Indian-Flagged Vessels

Income earned on Indian-flagged vessels is taxable in India irrespective of residency, as the source is India.

Such income is taxed as per normal income tax rules.

4. Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAA)

India has signed DTAAs with several countries where seafarers may work.

DTAA allows relief by way of tax credits or exemptions if the same income is taxed abroad.

Seafarers should file appropriate forms and claims to avoid double taxation.

5. Income Tax Filing and Compliance

Residents must declare worldwide income, including foreign earnings.

Non-residents declare only Indian-sourced income.

Proper documentation (such as employment contracts, certificates of stay, and tax residency certificates) is essential for claiming exemptions.

Failure to comply may lead to penalties or tax demand.

6. Social Security and Other Contributions

Seafarers employed on foreign vessels may have social security contributions governed by foreign laws or international agreements.

Indian taxation primarily focuses on income tax; other levies depend on employment contract terms.

7. Tax Planning and Advisory

Seafarers often consult tax advisors to optimize tax liability considering residency status, DTAA provisions, and allowances.

Proper understanding of tax implications enhances take-home salary and legal compliance.

Example

Scenario:
An Indian seafarer works on a foreign-flagged oil tanker for 10 months in a financial year, earning salary abroad.

Tax Implications:

• Under CBDT circulars, the seafarer qualifies as a non-resident (due to overseas deployment).
• Salary earned onboard is exempt from Indian income tax under Section 10(6)(vi).
• The seafarer files income tax return in India declaring exempt income.
• If foreign tax is paid, claim relief under DTAA to avoid double taxation.
• Documentation such as employer certificates and foreign tax returns supports the claim.

This enables tax savings while ensuring compliance with Indian tax laws.