NRI investment options in India
The Indian government encourages Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) to explore their investment options by providing various investment solutions for all their diversified needs.
There has never been a better moment to investigate the best way to invest in India for NRI, whether they’re itching to get back in touch with their roots or are just fascinated by India’s vibrant marketplaces.
NRIs can increase their wealth and safeguard their financial future with NRI investment options in India ranging from the busy streets of commercial real estate to the thrilling bustle of the stock market floor.
Investment options for NRIs in India
Read on to learn more about the NRI investment options in India.
1. Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs)
A Unit Linked Insurance Plan allows policyholders to benefit from financial opportunities along with insurance coverage. Section 80C of the Income Tax Act of 1961 allows taxpayers to claim a deduction of up to ₹1.5 lakh for certain specified investments during a fiscal year, subject to the limitations outlined therein.
Premiums for ULIPs are also eligible for this reduction. The minimum tenure is 5 years, with medium to high risk, and the returns are determined by the type of plan you select.
2. Pension Plans
Next on our list of NRI investment options in India is pension plans. It is a financial product that allows you to save for retirement over time while working. The policy’s length extends from ten to thirty years.
3. Guaranteed Returns Traditional Plans
Guaranteed returns traditional plans, a popular choice for NRI investment in India, are financial products in which individuals invest a specific amount of money for a set time, with the plan guaranteeing a defined return on investment. This is one of the best ways to invest in India for NRIs.
4. Child Plan
A child plan combines insurance and investment under one roof. The insurance component allows you to protect your child from any unexpected occurrence. The investment component contributes to fund accumulation by investing in a variety of financial products. This NRI investment option includes shares, debt bonds, and so forth.
5. P2P Lending
P2P lending, often known as peer-to-peer lending, is a method of loan financing in which individual lenders connect with borrowers through LenDenClub.
P2P lending platforms are the best way to invest in India for NRI since they give a marketplace for analyzing borrower profiles, assessing credit risk, and selecting loans based on your requirements.
6. National Pension Scheme
The National Pension System, allowing NRI investment in India, is a retirement savings programme backed by the government.
When NRIs are planning for their long-term financial security, NPS is the best way to invest in India for NRI because it combines the benefits of tax savings and wealth growth.
7. Mutual Funds
Mutual funds are the greatest long-term investment plans for high returns since they invest your money in a diverse mix of equity, debt, and money market funds. This scheme has a minimum length of three years and provides tax breaks of up to ₹1.5 lakhs.
Its returns range from 8 to 20% and are ideal for investors with a medium to high-risk tolerance.
8. Fixed Deposits
Fixed deposits offer fixed returns over a given period. This long-term investment plan guarantees profits for periods ranging from seven days to ten years.
Fixed deposits offer stability because of their fixed interest rates (the current rate is 4-9% per annum) and predetermined maturity periods.
9. Real Estate
Real estate is an attractive NRI investment option in India since it provides long-term returns and growth.
There are no restrictions on investment tenure, and the risk is medium. This long-term investment plan is subject to both long-term and short-term capital gains taxes.
10. Equity Investments
If you are an active investor willing to accept risks in the stock market, you should consider investing in equity.
NRIs can use the RBI’s Portfolio Investment Scheme (PINS) and directly invest in the Indian stock market. However, a Demat account, a trading account and an NRE/NRO bank account are required to invest in the Indian stock market.
11. Portfolio Management Services (PMS)
PMS is a personalized investing service that provides tailored solutions to individual investors depending on their risk tolerance, return expectations, and investment goals. It demands a minimum investment of ₹50 lakhs, making it ideal for wealthy persons.
12. Bonds and Non-Convertible Debentures (NCDs)
With effect from April 1, 2020, NRIs can invest in government bonds in India without a ceiling limit in certain particular securities. From fiscal year 20-21, NRIs can invest in bonds with maturities of five, ten, or thirty years.
Non-convertible debentures (NCDs) are debt securities that are secured by the assets of the firm issuing them. NCDs have a defined maturity date, and the interest can be paid along with the principal amount monthly, quarterly, or annually, depending on the fixed term chosen.
13. Pre-IPO Investment
Pre-IPO investment for NRIs provides an exclusive opportunity to participate in promising companies before they go public, with the potential for big rewards. With thorough due diligence and expert coaching, NRIs can diversify their portfolios and capitalize on early-stage investment opportunities.
Factors to Consider
Investing in India can be a lucrative opportunity for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), but it requires careful consideration of a variety of criteria to make informed decisions and optimize earnings while adhering to legal and regulatory guidelines.
The following points must be considered:
Tax Bracket
Taxation is a significant factor in NRI investments. The Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) between India and other countries governs how NRIs are taxed. NRIs may face varying tax rates depending on their country of residency.
Gather Documents
To invest in India, you’ll need a bank account and KYC credentials such as a PAN card, address proof, bank account statement, and passport copy.
Open a Proper Account
According to the Income Tax Act, an individual who spends fewer than 182 days in India in a year is considered an NRI. With these requirements in place, NRIs can select from a variety of accounts, including the NRO (NRO) account for Indian income investment and the FCNR (foreign currency non-resident) and the NRE (non-resident external) accounts for foreign currency investments.
Conclusion
NRIs can make an investment in India and take advantage of the country’s dynamic economic landscape by diversifying their portfolios and making wise financial decisions. To know the best way to invest in India for NRI, they must comprehend the regulatory environment, carry out in-depth studies, and consult a specialist. Happy investing!
FAQs
Can NRIs buy tax-free bonds in India?
NRIs can buy tax-free bonds in India and enjoy tax exemptions, portfolio diversification and stable returns.
What are the government schemes for NRIs in India?
The Indian government has various schemes for NRIs like fixed deposits, mutual funds, government securities and bonds, equity investment etc. Read our guide to learn more about the investment opportunities.
Can NRI buy SGBs?
No, an NRI cannot invest in SGBs as per FEMA. However, if they had an SGB investment before their NRI status then they can hold the investment or redeem it prematurely.
Team LenDenClub
LenDenClub is India’s largest alternate investment platform which started operations in India in 2015. We have been helping investors diversify their investments beyond traditional investment instruments ever since.