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A step-by-step guide to opening an NRI account from abroad

04 Jun 2025 by Team FinFIRST
opening an NRI account
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Sarthak recently moved to the UK for a new job opportunity. Like many non-resident Indians (NRIs) working abroad, he wants to send money to his parents in India and manage his finances efficiently from overseas. But he is unsure about how to open an NRI account online. Can the process be started while living abroad? What documents do you need? Is it complicated?

Let’s walk through everything Sarthak—and you—need to know while opening an NRI account.

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Why do you need an NRI account?
 

An NRI can’t continue using a regular savings account in India once they move abroad. As per regulations, they must operate either a non-resident external (NRE) or a non-resident ordinary (NRO) account. This is why opening an NRI account is essential.

An NRI account is a bank account designed specifically for Indians living abroad. Opening an NRI account not only ensures compliance but also simplifies handling all your financial transactions in India without issues.

Here’s why NRIs like Sarthak choose to open an account –

  1. It lets you send money to India without any hassle
  2. You can hold and convert foreign currency to INR safely
  3. It allows you to save or invest in Indian rupees
  4. You get tax benefits, especially on NRE account interest
  5. Your funds can be repatriated abroad, depending on the account type
  6. It helps you pay bills or support your family in India from anywhere

NRE vs NRO account – which one suits your needs?
 

Choosing between an NRE or NRO account depends on your income sources and financial goals.

Feature

NRE account

NRO account

Purpose

For income earned abroad

For income earned in India

Currency

Funds deposited in foreign currency

Funds can be in INR or foreign currency

Repatriability

Fully repatriable (principal + interest)

Up to USD 1 million/year (with tax and documents). Interest is fully repatriable after deducting tax.

Taxation

Interest is tax-free in India

Interest is taxable in India


Sarthak, who earns in the UK and wants to send money to India, would benefit more from an NRE account.

Can you start the account opening process from abroad?
 

Yes, absolutely. The process for opening an NRI account can be started from outside India. Banks like IDFC FIRST Bank offer digital services that allow you to apply online and submit documents. This means you don’t need to visit a branch in person.

How to open an NRI bank account from abroad: Step-by-step guide
 

Whether NRE or NRO, opening an NRI account in India from abroad is now simpler than ever. Here’s how to go about it -

Step 1 –

IDFC FIRST Bank allows you to open an NRI account online without needing to visit India.

Step 2 –

Click on ‘Apply Now .’ Enter your mobile number and email ID to start your application. Select between an NRE or NRO account.

Step 3 –

Complete the application form with your personal details, Non-Resident Status Proof, Overseas Address Proof, and tax related information.

Step 4 –

Complete the Know Your Customer (KYC) verification. IDFC FIRST Bank allows you to upload certified copies of documents for verification. Ensure that you upload clear and legible scanned copies.  If needed, a relationship manager will assist you remotely to ensure a smooth process.

Step 5 –

Once your application and documents are submitted, the bank will verify them. The bank’s team will handle this process remotely.

Step 6 –

After successful verification, you’ll receive your NRI account details, including your account number and online banking credentials.

You can now access your account, transfer funds, and manage your finances directly from the IDFC FIRST Bank Mobile Banking App or through online banking.

 

What documents do you need to open an NRI account from abroad?
 

Here are the documents required for opening an NRI account –

  1. Passport (identity proof)
  2. Visa or OCI/PIO card or Resident Permit (non-resident status proof)
  3. Overseas address proof (utility bill, driver’s licence, etc.)
  4. PAN or Form 60 (for tax compliance)
  5. Recent photograph and digital signature

Since you're not visiting a bank branch, you must get your documents attested by an entity from your overseas country of residence. This can be done by –

  1. Notary public
  2. Indian embassy
  3. An overseas bank with an Indian bank tie-up
  4. Magistrate or judge

Make sure the documents are clear and legible before uploading.

Let IDFC FIRST Bank support you, wherever you are
 

For NRIs like Sarthak, opening an NRI account from overseas doesn’t have to be complex. With IDFC FIRST Bank, the entire journey—from application to activation—is digital, efficient, and supported by an expert NRI team. The Mobile Banking App also gives you complete control over your account from anywhere in the world.

So, why wait? Apply here to get started with your NRI account from wherever you are. Take the first step today with a bank that supports you every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I hold both NRE and NRO accounts at the same time?

Yes, you can hold both types of accounts. Many NRIs open both to manage both foreign earnings (NRE) and income from Indian sources like rent or dividends (NRO).

Is there a limit to the amount I can repatriate from my NRO account?

Yes, you can repatriate up to USD 1 million from your NRO account per financial year, subject to applicable tax deductions and required documentation.

Can I use the NRI account to transfer money to family members in India?

Yes, you can transfer money to your family in India through your NRI account. Whether it's an NRE or NRO account, both allow seamless transfers to bank accounts in India, often with minimal fees.

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.

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