Investing in Mutual Funds for NRIs: A Comprehensive Guide
As a Non-Resident Indian (NRI), you have the unique opportunity to invest in Indian mutual funds, benefiting from India’s growing economy. However, there are several important factors to consider, such as eligibility criteria, documentation, KYC compliance, and tax implications. In this detailed guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about investing in mutual funds as an NRI in 2024.
Key Considerations for NRIs Before Investing in Mutual Funds
1. NRI Status
Before investing in mutual funds, it’s important to confirm your classification as an NRI. The definition of an NRI is governed by the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) guidelines. To ensure that you qualify as an NRI, check the specific guidelines regarding your residential status.
2. NRI Bank Account
NRIs cannot invest in mutual funds in foreign currencies. All investments must be made through an Indian rupee-denominated account. You need to open either a Non-Resident External (NRE) or Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO) account in India. These accounts allow you to manage and repatriate your funds.
3. KYC Compliance
Once you become an NRI, a fresh Know Your Customer (KYC) process is required. This ensures that your identity and residency status are properly verified. You can complete the KYC process either through a mutual fund intermediary like a bank or directly with Asset Management Companies (AMCs). Once your KYC is submitted, it is maintained in a centralized database by SEBI-registered KYC Registration Agencies (KRAs) like CAMS, Karvy, and CDSL.
Mutual Fund Investment Options for NRIs
As an NRI, you can invest in various types of mutual funds including:
- Equity Funds: Funds that invest in stocks and aim for higher returns over the long term.
- Debt Funds: Funds that invest in bonds and other fixed-income securities.
- Hybrid Funds: A combination of equity and debt, providing balanced risk and returns.
You can invest in these funds online or through an appointed Power of Attorney (PoA) in India.
Continuing Your Existing SIPs as an NRI
If you were previously investing in mutual funds as a resident Indian through a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP), you can continue your SIPs even after becoming an NRI. However, you must update your NRO account details with your AMC or broker to ensure proper fund allocation. If you wish to redeem your investments, the redemption amount will be credited to your NRO account after deducting Tax Deducted at Source (TDS).
Important Note:
NRIs from the United States and Canada may face restrictions on investing in Indian mutual funds if the AMCs are not FATCA/CRS compliant. FATCA and CRS guidelines require fund houses to report foreign clients’ financial accounts.
Documentation Required for NRI Mutual Fund Investment
To begin investing in mutual funds, you will need to provide the following documents:
- Passport (for identity verification)
- KYC form (duly filled)
- Proof of Non-Residential Status (e.g., visa, work permit)
- Proof of Address (e.g., driver’s license, voter’s ID, Aadhaar, etc.)
- FATCA Declaration (for NRIs from the US, UK, Canada, etc.)
For seafarers, additional documents like a contract letter and visa may be required.
Repatriation of Funds: NRE vs NRO Accounts
You can invest in mutual funds on a repatriable or non-repatriable basis:
- Repatriable Investments: If you invest through an NRE account, you can fully repatriate the investment proceeds abroad.
- Non-Repatriable Investments: Investments made through an NRO account have restrictions on repatriation. The maximum repatriable amount is USD 1 million per financial year.
Taxation of NRI Mutual Fund Investments
The taxation on mutual fund investments for NRIs is similar to that for resident Indians. However, there are specific TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) rules based on the type of mutual fund and the holding period.
| Type of Mutual Fund | Holding Period | Taxation on Capital Gains (Before July 23, 2024) | Taxation on Capital Gains (After July 23, 2024) | Taxation on Capital Gains (After April 1, 2025) |
| Equity-oriented Funds (≥65% in equity) | < 12 months | 15%* | 20%* | 20%* |
| Equity-oriented Funds (≥65% in equity) | > 12 months | 10%* (above INR 1 Lakh) | 10%* (above INR 1.25 Lakh) | 12.5%* (above INR 1.25 Lakh) |
| Debt-oriented Funds (35-65% in equity) | < 24 months (Short-term) | As per income tax slab | As per income tax slab | As per income tax slab |
| Debt-oriented Funds (35-65% in equity) | > 24 months (Long-term) | 20% + surcharge with indexation | 12.5% without indexation | 12.5% without indexation |
Please note, TDS rates apply depending on the nature of the investment and your income tax bracket.
Did You Know?
NRIs in the United States may be subject to both Indian and U.S. taxation on mutual fund investments. India taxes realized gains, while the U.S. requires you to report unrealized mark-to-market gains. To avoid double taxation, NRIs should check if their country has a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) with India.
Investing in Indian mutual funds as an NRI is a viable option for diversifying your portfolio and benefiting from the Indian market’s growth. However, ensure that you meet the NRI status, comply with KYC regulations, and understand the tax implications. Always consult a tax expert or financial advisor to optimize your investment and tax planning.
Before making any investment, please review the scheme-related documents carefully. Mutual fund investments are subject to market risks, so it’s important to invest wisely and in line with your risk tolerance.