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A complete guide to NRE savings account

10 Jan 2025 by Team FinFIRST

As a Non-Resident Indian (NRI), managing your finances across borders requires a tailored approach. Adhering to FEMA (Foreign Exchange Management Act) regulations, specific NRI accounts ensure compliance and convenience. Among these, the NRE account is a versatile financial tool for handling foreign income earned outside India. This account allows NRIs to repatriate funds freely and enjoy tax-free interest income. With features designed for seamless international transactions, an NRE account caters to the unique needs of NRIs, combining flexibility and financial security.

 Go through this blog to explore how an NRE account operates, its features, and why it could be the right choice for you.

Understanding the NRE account: How does it work?
 

An NRE account is a rupee-denominated account where NRIs can deposit their foreign earnings. This account simplifies managing funds by enabling seamless transfers and withdrawals while ensuring tax-free interest.

For instance, consider you are working in the U.S. and wish to transfer your salary to India to support your family or invest in local opportunities. By opening an IDFC FIRST Bank NRE Savings Account, you can effortlessly deposit your foreign income. With competitive interest rates, no restrictions on fund repatriation, and advanced online banking features with an innovative mobile app, this account makes financial management smoother for NRIs.

Funds that can be deposited in an NRE account
 

You can deposit any foreign income into your NRE account, including:

  • Salary earned abroad.
  • Proceeds from investments held outside India.
  • Income from overseas business operations.

These funds are converted into Indian rupees when deposited, ensuring accessibility in India.

An NRE account is more than a financial tool; it’s a bridge that connects your international earnings to your goals in India.

Payments that can be made from an NRE account
 

An NRE account can be used for various financial transactions, such as:

  • Paying bills, including utilities and EMIs in India.
  • Making investments in mutual funds, stocks, or real estate.
  • Sending funds to your family members in India.
  • Repatriating funds back to your foreign account without restrictions.

Features of an NRE account
 

Parameters

Details

Who can apply?

Any NRI with foreign income wishing to deposit it in India.

Documentation

Valid passport, visa/work permit, overseas address proof, and ID proof.

Basic Features

Rupee-denominated account with tax-free interest and full repatriability.

Repatriation Rules

Entire principal and interest amount can be repatriated without restrictions.

Taxation Rules

Interest earned is fully exempt from tax under the Indian Income Tax Act, 1961.

When can you open an NRE account?
 

As per the regulations laid down by the Foreign Exchange Management Act, an individual is considered an NRI if they reside overseas (except Nepal or Bhutan) for more than 182 days in one financial year or have demonstrated with supported documents an intent to go abroad or reside outside India. 

Once you are eligible to be categorized as an NRI, PIO, or OCI as per the above FEMA regulation, you can open an NRE account.

How to apply for IDFC FIRST Bank NRI Account?
 

Opening an NRI account with IDFC FIRST Bank is simple and hassle-free. You can opt for any of the methods listed below to open an NRI account at your convenience:

 When you are in India
 

If you are currently in India, visiting a nearby IDFC FIRST Bank branch is a reliable option. During banking hours, you can meet with a bank representative who will assist you in selecting and opening an NRI account that suits your needs. The Relationship Manager will help you with a smooth onboarding experience by collecting the requisite KYC documents as per your convenience  

 When you are overseas/abroad
 

If you are outside India, head to the ‘NRI’ section on the IDFC FIRST Bank website and click on ‘Apply Now’, or simply click here to start the application process online.

Fill in your details and upload your certified KYC documents along with photo and signature. Post verification of your KYC documents, your account shall be opened.

Conclusion
 

The NRE account is an indispensable banking tool for NRIs, offering numerous benefits such as tax-free interest, seamless fund management, and unrestricted repatriation. With IDFC FIRST Bank’s NRE Savings Account, you can unlock additional advantages like competitive interest rates, secure transactions, and user-friendly digital banking features.

Start planning your finances today and leverage an NRE account to align your international income with your Indian financial goals. For personalised guidance, consider consulting financial experts to maximise the benefits of an NRE account.

Disclaimer

The contents of this article/infographic/picture/video are meant solely for information purposes. The contents are generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. The information is subject to updation, completion, revision, verification and amendment and the same may change materially. The information is not intended for distribution or use by any person in any jurisdiction where such distribution or use would be contrary to law or regulation or would subject IDFC FIRST Bank or its affiliates to any licensing or registration requirements. IDFC FIRST Bank shall not be responsible for any direct/indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information mentioned. Please consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision.