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  • As per amendment in the Income Tax Rules, PAN or Aadhaar are to be mandatorily quoted for cash deposit or withdrawal aggregating to Rupees twenty lakhs or more in a FY. Please update your PAN or Aadhaar. Kindly reach out to the Bank’s contact center on 1800 10 888 or visit the nearest IDFC FIRST Bank branch for further queries.

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NRE Account: A Tax-Free NRE Savings Account for NRIs

As an NRI, security and convenience are what you need the most for parking your foreign earnings in a bank account in India. Enjoy complete liquidity with tax-exempt returns on your rupee-denominated NRE Savings Account where you can convert your overseas funds to INR at the best exchange rates. Coupled with our IDFC FIRST Bank features, we are sure you would love using this account.Read More

With the IDFC FIRST Bank NRE Savings Account, get the flexibility to repatriate 100% of your deposit to your country of residence anytime. Also, enjoy one of the highest savings account interest rates and seamless access to funds on the go. Assign a mandate holder on your behalf to run the bank account in India while you earn abroad. Read Less

   

Features and Benefits of NRE Savings Account

Funds are fully repatriable

Funds are fully repatriable

Funds in the NRE savings accounts are completely repatriable without any constraints. Transfer all your deposits in your NRE account to your bank account in the country of your residence without any hassles.

Competitive interest rates offered

High interest rates offered

IDFC FIRST Bank offers competitive interest rates on NRE accounts. Enjoy better returns on your foreign earnings and grow your wealth quickly.

Tax savings on interest

Tax savings on interest

Interest on NRE Savings Account are exempt from taxes in India. Your capital gains are completely tax-exempt in India.

Cost-effective money transfers

Cost-effective money transfers

Transfer money to and from your NRE savings account to your bank in your country of residence without any fee or charges.

Benefits to the mandate holder

Benefits to the mandate holder

Assign a mandate holder from your family member in India to run the bank account on your behalf.

Flexibility of joint account holding

Flexibility of joint account holding

IDFC FIRST Bank offers you the flexibility to open a joint account with another NRI or a Resident Indian on former or survivor basis.

Internationally accepted debit card

Internationally accepted debit card

Enjoy an internationally accepted VISA Signature debit card that offers high withdrawal and spending limits to maintain your elite lifestyle. The card also comes with exclusive perks and benefits and accident insurance.

Innovative mobile banking app

Innovative mobile banking app

Access your funds and manage your NRE Savings Account from anywhere around the world with an innovative mobile banking app offered by IDFC FIRST Bank. Get various banking services such as fund transfers, utility and credit card bill payments, and online shopping with the easy-to-use mobile app.

NRE Savings Account Interest Calculator

Choose account balance

10k 100cr

Choose your existing bank interest rate

1.5 % 4 %

Simulation Results(for a period of 1 year):

* Interest you earn with IDFC FIRST Bank –

** Interest you earn with your Bank –

Additional Interest you earn with us –

* Interest calculated on progressive balances in each interest rate slab, as applicable
** Interest calculated on flat rate basis

  • HEMRAJ JAGDISH PUNJABI

    “The branch manager was very prompt to attend to our needs of opening an NRE Account. He was very friendly and helpful. He enquired for the relevant documents needed for account opening which we had carried with us during our visit. Since all the documentation formalities were complete, the account opening procedure was quite simple and quick. Everything went very smooth. Very courteous service. Keep it up!!! .”

  • SHARIQ RAHMAN

    “The bank representative walked me through every step of accessing the mobile banking app. Glad to talk to someone who is very knowledgeable and upholds high banking standards like here in the USA. I am very satisfied with IDFC FIRST Bank's convenient mobile banking app and the process of opening an account.”

How to Open an NRE Savings Account

You can easily open an NRE account online by following these steps:

When you are Overseas

  • Step 1 : To open an NRE savings account online, click on the ‘Apply now’ button in the right corner and enter your mobile number as well as Email ID.
  • Step 2 : Fill in your details and upload your certified KYC documents along with photo and signature.
  • Step 3 : Post verification of your KYC documents, your account shall be opened.
Small loans

When you are in India

  • Step 1 : Locate the nearest IDFC FIRST Bank branch and carry all the required self-attested KYC documents. Contact the banking representative and apply for an NRE account.
  • Step 2 : Fill out the offline account opening form and attach the required documents when submitting your application.
  • Step 3 : Our representative will guide you through the application process.
When you are Overseas

When you are Overseas

  • Step 1 : To open an NRE savings account online, click on the ‘Apply now’ button in the right corner and enter your mobile number as well as Email ID.
  • Step 2 : Fill in your details and upload your certified KYC documents along with photo and signature.
  • Step 3 : Post verification of your KYC documents, your account shall be opened.
When you are in India

When you are in India

  • Step 1 : Locate the nearest IDFC FIRST Bank branch and carry all the required self-attested KYC documents. Contact the banking representative and apply for an NRE account.
  • Step 2 : Fill out the offline account opening form and attach the required documents when submitting your application.
  • Step 3 : Our representative will guide you through the application process.

How Does an NRE Savings Account Work?

An NRE Savings Account offers non-resident Indians a safe and convenient avenue to park their foreign income from their country of residence and grow their wealth by availing higher interest rates.. The funds in the NRE account are converted to INR at the time of deposit at prevailing forex rates.

The interest in your IDFC FIRST NRE account is calculated on the daily closing balance and credited to their account on a monthly basis.

UPI Payments
VISA Signature Debit Card

VISA Signature International Debit Card with IDFC FIRST NRE Savings Account

  • Complimentary domestic airport lounge access, twice every quarter
  • Higher daily purchase limit of ₹6 lakh and higher daily ATM withdrawal limit of ₹2 lakh
  • Personal Accidental Insurance cover of 35L and Air accidental insurance cover of 1CR
  • Free and unlimited ATM transactions: at any bank, anywhere in India

Enjoy 100% liquidity with tax exempt returns and remote processing for all banking transactions from anywhere, anytime!

FEE & CHARGES

Enjoy 100% liquidity with tax exempt returns

NRE ACCOUNT ELIGIBILITY

Who Can Apply?

  • Non Resident Indians
  • Person of Indian Origin (PIO)
  • Overseas Citizen India (OCI)
  • Seafarers working on International Vessels
  • Oil Rig Employees working on International Offshore Projects
  • Rig Employees working on International Offshore Projects

Documentation

In order to apply for an IDFC FIRST Bank NRE Savings Account, you will need to provide the following documents:

  • Identity proof: Passport
  • Non Resident Status Proof (any one of the following): Visa / PIO card/ Foreign Passport with PIO declaration/ Continuous Discharge Certificate with Valid contract letter for seafarers / Resident Permit/ Resident Card.
  • Overseas Address Proof (Any one of the following documents having your overseas address): Passport, Driving license, National Id /Government issued ids, Latest utility bill (mobile/gas/electricity/telephone), Latest savings bank statement from a transactional account, Council tax bill, Resident Permit, Voter id/Electoral card.
  • Tax related: PAN / Form 60, FATCA-related fields on the application form
  • Other documents: recent colour photograph, an image of your signature (only for online applications)
  • Document Certification : When not being met by an IDFC FIRST Bank employee, please ensure your passport and address proof copies are certified by any one of the following entities from your overseas country of residence: Overseas bank with tie up to any Indian Bank | Overseas Branch of Indian Bank |Notary | Court Magistrate /Judge |Indian Embassy

Documents For NRE Account

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the full form of NRE account?

The full form of NRE account is Non-Resident External Account. It is a type of bank account available to Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) for depositing income earned outside India. The funds in NRE account are fully repatriable, both principal and interest, and are held in Indian rupees. This account helps NRIs conveniently manage and transfer their overseas earnings to India without any tax liabilities on the interest income in India.

Can I transfer money from NRO to NRE account?

Yes, you can transfer funds from your Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO) account to your Non-Resident External (NRE) account, but certain conditions apply. You will need to submit forms 15CA and 15CB, along with a declaration as per your bank’s format. These regulatory steps are part of compliance under the Income Tax Act. The amount transferred must be from legitimate income in India, and the applicable taxes must be paid before transfer.

What is the meaning of repatriation of funds?

Repatriation of funds means transferring money from an Indian bank account to a foreign bank account. Repatriation is governed by the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) and is subject to documentation and limits depending on the account type: Non-Resident External (NRE), Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO), or Foreign Currency Non-Resident (FCNR). 

Can I transfer money from NRE to Savings Account?

Yes, you can transfer money from your NRE Savings Account to a resident Indian Savings Account.

With the IDFC FIRST Bank NRE Savings Account, you get convenient options to transfer funds 24/7 without any fee.

Who can open an NRE Savings Account?

NRE accounts can be opened by:

  • Non-Resident Indians
  • Person of Indian Origin (PIO)
  • Overseas Citizen of India (OCI)
  • Seafarers working on international vessels
  • Oil rig employees working on international offshore projects.

IDFC FIRST Bank allows you to complete the NRI Savings Account opening process online when overseas and by visiting a branch when in India.

How can I open an NRE Savings Account?

You can open the IDFC FIRST Bank NRE Savings Account in two ways:

Online, when you are overseas:

Step 1: Visit the official website and click on the ‘Apply Now’ button. Enter your mobile number and email ID.

Step 2: Fill in your personal details and upload certified KYC documents, along with your photo and signature.

Step 3: Once your documents are verified, your NRE Savings Account will be opened.

Offline, when you are in India:

Step 1: Visit the nearest IDFC FIRST Bank branch with your self-attested KYC documents.

Step 2: Fill out the account opening form and attach the relevant documents.

Step 3: A bank representative will guide you through the rest of the process.

In which currency is my NRE Savings Account maintained?

Your NRE Savings Account is maintained in Indian Rupees (INR). Although you deposit foreign currency into the account, it is converted to INR at the prevailing exchange rate. 

How to transfer money to NRE account?

You can fund your IDFC FIRST Bank NRE Savings Account through multiple ways:

  • Wire transfer: Remit money through overseas banks' wire transfer services.
  • Exchange house: Transfer money from GCC countries, Singapore, or Hong Kong through exchange houses.
  • Foreign currency cash deposit: If you are in India, you can deposit foreign currency cash (in all major currencies) through an AD-II category dealer. Then, deposit the INR cheque into your NRE Savings Account to credit the equivalent amount.
  • Transfers from other NRE accounts in India: You can also use your existing NRE account with another Indian bank to transfer funds. Either write a cheque in favour of your IDFC FIRST Bank NRE Savings Account or make an online transfer. 

Is NRE Savings Account taxable in India?

The interest earned on your NRE Savings Account is completely tax-free in India, as long as you maintain your NRI status under FEMA regulations. This tax exemption, along with free repatriation, makes the NRE account a highly efficient option for NRIs to grow and manage their money in India.

Can I repatriate funds held in my NRE Savings Account?

You can fully and freely repatriate both the principal and interest from your NRE Savings Account. There are no restrictions under FEMA regulations. This feature makes the NRE account a convenient option for NRIs to move their funds to any part of the world. 

Can I have a joint account holder in my NRE Savings Account?

IDFC FIRST Bank allows NRIs to hold NRE accounts jointly with other NRIs or a resident. The account can be operated under options like ‘either or survivor,’ ‘jointly,’ or 'former or survivor,' as specified. 

What is the mode of operation of the joint holder if he/she is a resident Indian?

NRIs/PIOs are allowed to jointly hold an NRI Savings Account with a resident Indian relative on a 'former or survivor' basis, where 'relative' is defined as per the Companies Act, 2013. 

How do I access my IDFC FIRST Bank NRE Savings Account?

You can access your NRE Savings Account anytime, anywhere, through IDFC FIRST Bank's secure mobile banking app and internet banking portal. These platforms offer 24/7 access to all essential services like fund transfers, account balance inquiries, statement downloads, and bill payments. You can also manage your debit card, view interest credits, and request services without visiting a branch. Click here to log in to your net banking. 

What do I get on opening an NRE Savings Account?

When you open an IDFC FIRST Bank NRE Savings Account, you are eligible to receive a personalised chequebook and an international VISA Signature Debit Card. 

Can I transfer funds between NRE Savings Accounts?

You can transfer funds between your IDFC FIRST Bank NRE Savings Account and NRE Savings Accounts held with other banks in India. Such transfers are permitted under RBI guidelines and do not have any restrictions since the funds remain in fully repatriable form. Transfers can be done easily through mobile or internet banking platforms. 

Can I transfer money/issue cheques from my NRE Savings Account to resident or NRO account?

You can issue cheques or transfer funds through digital modes from your Non-Resident External (NRE) Savings Account to a Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO) account or another account holder’s resident account. 

At what frequency is the rate of interest calculated and payable in my NRE Savings Account?

Interest on your IDFC FIRST Bank NRE Savings Account is calculated daily based on the closing balance maintained each day. The total interest earned during the month is then credited to your account on the last day of every month. This way, you benefit from any day-to-day increase in your balance and enjoy monthly payouts without having to wait until the end of a quarter or year. It is a simple and transparent way to grow your savings consistently. 

Does IDFC FIRST Bank issue a separate Debit Card to joint holder(s) in NRE Savings Account?

NRI Joint holders are given a separate Debit Card on request. It is possible to apply for the card at the time of account opening or later through mobile banking or internet banking platforms. 

Can I use my IDFC FIRST Bank NRE Savings Account VISA Signature Debit Card in India, or is it only for overseas usage?

Your VISA Signature Debit Card is valid for use in India as well as abroad. You can make withdrawals at VISA ATMs and purchases at Point of Sale (POS) terminals at merchant establishments. The card comes with premium benefits such as high daily limits, airport lounge access, and insurance coverage. Moreover, you benefit from unlimited free ATM transactions across all banks in India. 

Can I have a nomination facility in my IDFC FIRST Bank NRE Savings Account?

The IDFC FIRST Bank NRE Savings Account includes a nomination facility. The nominee can be a resident or non-resident. Setting up a nomination is a simple process that enhances account security and facilitates smooth transfer of funds. It also reduces the legal complexity for your family, which makes this decision both practical and responsible when opening your account. 

What are the fees and charges for my IDFC FIRST Bank NRE Savings Account?

Most essential banking services come at no cost with your IDFC FIRST Bank NRE Savings Account. For complete details on any charges related to your NRE Savings Account, please click here:

Can I transfer funds from my NRE Savings Account?

Funds can be transferred from your Non-Resident External (NRE) Savings Account to other NRE, Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO), or resident accounts. You can carry out transactions through internet banking, mobile apps, or cheques. The amount remains fully repatriable unless it is moved to an NRO or resident account.  

What are the options for online NRE account opening?

You can open an NRE account with IDFC FIRST Bank either online or offline, depending on whether you are currently overseas or in India. The process is simple and requires filling out the application form and submitting your KYC documents, along with your photo and signature. Click here

What are the interest rates for NRE Savings Accounts?

Click here to check the latest interest rates. 

What is the minimum balance requirement for an NRE Savings Account?

The Average Monthly Balance (AMB) requirement for IDFC FIRST Bank NRE Savings Accounts is ₹25,000. 

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7 Benefits of an NRE Savings Account by IDFC FIRST Bank

An IDFC FIRST Bank NRE Savings Account allows NRIs to deposit foreign earnings in Indian rupees while offering tax-free interest and full repatriation. The benefits of a savings account include competitive interest rates, seamless digital banking, and dedicated support. IDFC FIRST Bank provides one of the best NRI Savings Account with 24X7 digital banking to manage accounts, transfer funds, and pay bills from anywhere in the world.

Team FinFIRST06 Mar 2025 • 3 mins read

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