Investing in India from abroad: a simple guide for NRIs
Living outside India doesn't stop you from building money at home for a house, your parents or your own return one day. Indian mutual funds are open to NRIs and OCIs, and the whole process can be done without flying back.
What you need
- An NRE or NRO bank account in India. Money from an NRE account can usually be taken back abroad in full. From NRO, repatriation is allowed within yearly limits.
- PAN card, passport, visa or residence proof, and your overseas address proof.
- KYC as a non-resident, which we help you complete online or through a video call.
- A FATCA / CRS declaration stating your country of tax residence.
If you live in the US or Canada
Because of extra reporting rules, some fund houses don't accept investments from residents of the US and Canada, and others accept them only with a signed declaration. We tell you which ones do before you choose, so your application isn't rejected halfway.
Tax, in brief
For NRIs, tax is deducted at source (TDS) when you sell mutual fund units at a gain. Depending on your country, a tax treaty with India (DTAA) may let you claim credit for it. Rules differ by country and change often, so please confirm your position with a tax adviser.
How we work across time zones
- Everything on WhatsApp and video calls: no visits needed.
- Calls between 10 AM and 8 PM India time, which is morning in the US, the working day in the UAE and Europe, and evening in Singapore and Australia.
- A yearly review of each goal, plus a message whenever something needs your decision.
Start from wherever you are
Same two people every time: Sai Krishna and Srilakshmi Pasupuleti (CFP®). 10 AM – 8 PM.
Mutual fund investments are subject to market risks. Read all scheme-related documents carefully before investing. FundsFirst Financial Services is an AMFI-registered Mutual Fund Distributor (ARN-96060); we earn a commission from fund houses on regular plans, and you pay us no fee.