How to Open FCNR Account? Step By Step Guide

How to Open an FCNR Account

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Key Takeaways: If you wish to open a fixed deposit with foreign earnings and earn a good interest, an FCNR account is your answer. Read on to know more about how to open an FCNR account and benefit from investing in foreign currency.

Fixed deposits in India offer higher interest rates than in many parts of the world. As an NRI, you can benefit from these rates by opening a foreign currency fixed deposit through an FCNR account.

The best part is that your principal and interest are 100% tax-free in India and fully repatriable. These features make FCNR deposits an attractive proposition for NRIs looking for a safe investment with a reasonable rate of return.

How to open an FCNR account

Step 1: Keep the necessary identity, address and residency documents ready. You will have to attest each copy with your bank or from the Indian embassy in your country of current residence.
Step 2: Fill out and submit the account-opening form with the attested copies of documents. Most banks have the facility to open an FCNR account online.

A key point to note here is that the FCNR account opening is only possible if the applicant is an NRI (Non-Resident Indian) or PIO (Person of Indian Origin). Your bank may ask you to provide additional documents on a case-by-case basis to establish identity, address or employment status.

Open an NRE Fixed Deposit

Features of an FCNR account

The amount is invested in the same foreign currency you transfer, insulating it from forex rate fluctuations
Competitive interest rates ensure your investment appreciates over time
The principal and interest-earned are 100% tax-free
The principal and interest can be repatriated abroad
FCNR accounts are available in leading global currencies like US Dollars, Pound Sterling, the Euro, Japanese Yen, Australian Dollars, Canadian Dollars, Swiss Francs, Singapore Dollars and Hong Kong Dollars
FCNR deposits can easily be accessed via mobile and internet banking services
You can choose tenures between 1 and 5 years

Final Note: Now that you know about the various advantages and features of an FCNR account, you can go ahead and open one. You can open an FCNR account remotely without visiting a bank branch.

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