What is HDFC Bank FCNR Account?
An HDFC Bank FCNR (Foreign Currency Non-Resident) Account is a fixed deposit account for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). It lets NRIs hold deposits in foreign currencies like USD, GBP, or EUR and earn interest on them. The interest is tax-free in India, and the money is protected from currency value changes. You can choose a deposit term from 1 to 5 years.
The HDFC FCNR account also makes it easy to transfer funds back to your home country. It is a safe and simple way for NRIs to manage their foreign currency savings.
Features of HDFC Bank FCNR Account
The key features of FCNR Account by HDFC Bank are listed below:
- Currency Options: You can hold your deposit in any of the 6 foreign currencies: US Dollars (USD), Pounds Sterling (GBP), Euro, Japanese Yen (JPY), Australian Dollars (AUD), or Canadian Dollars (CAD).
- Repatriation: The principal and interest amount can be fully repatriated.
- Tax Exemption: Enjoy tax exemption on the entire deposit amount.
- Joint Account: You can open the deposit jointly with other NRIs.
- Super Saver Facility: The Super Saver facility allows you to get an overdraft on your NRO Savings or Current account against your FCNR Fixed Deposit.
- Nomination Facility: The nomination facility is available for your deposit.
- Minimum Initial Deposit: The minimum initial deposit required is USD 1,000, GBP 2,500, Euro 2,500, JPY 7,50,000, AUD 1,000, or CAD 1,000.
- Minimum Add-on Deposit: The minimum add-on deposit required is USD 1,000, GBP 1,000, Euro 1,000, JPY 7,50,000, AUD 1,000, or CAD 1,000.
- Deposit Tenure: The deposit must be maintained for a minimum of 1 year and a maximum of 5 years.
Important Update (Effective from 1st July 2021):
- FCNR deposits in GBP, Euro, and JPY currencies will now only be offered for a 1-year tenure.
- Existing FCNR deposits in these currencies with a tenure of 1 year 1 day to 5 years will be auto-renewed for 1 year by default.
HDFC Bank FCNR Account Interest Rates
Period |
GBP |
USD |
EURO |
JPY |
AUD |
CAD |
Effective Date |
1 Year to < 2 Years |
4.45% |
4.80% |
4.80% |
4.80% |
4.80% |
4.80% |
December 21, 2024 |
2 Years to < 3 Years |
N/A |
4.15% |
4.15% |
4.15% |
4.15% |
4.15% |
December 1, 2024 |
3 Years to < 4 Years |
N/A |
4.00% |
4.00% |
4.00% |
4.00% |
4.00% |
December 1, 2024 |
4 Years to < 5 Years |
N/A |
3.70% |
3.70% |
3.70% |
3.70% |
3.70% |
December 1, 2024 |
5 Years Only |
N/A |
3.70% |
3.70% |
3.70% |
3.70% |
3.70% |
December 1, 2024 |
*These rates are effective as of December 2024.
Steps to Open an HDFC Bank FCNR Account
Follow the below-mentioned simple steps to open an HDFC Bank FCNR account for NRIs::
Step 1- Visit the Bank or Apply Online: You can open an HDFC Bank FCNR account at a branch or through HDFC's online banking portal for NRIs.
Step 2- Check Eligibility: Check if you fulfill the eligibility criteria and all the required documents are available with you to open a HDFC FCNR Bank Account.
Step 3- Select Currency: Choose from popular currencies like USD, GBP, EUR, JPY, etc.
Step 4- Fill Out Application: Complete the account opening form online or at the branch.
Step 5- Minimum Deposit: Make the initial deposit as per the currency you select (minimum deposit requirements vary).
Step 6- Complete KYC: Submit the KYC form and undergo the verification process.
Step 7- Get Account Details: Once processed, you will receive your account details and login credentials for online banking.
Eligibility Criteria to Apply for HDFC Bank FCNR Account
The following category of individuals can open HDFC Bank FCNR Account in India:
- Non-Resident Indians (NRIs): Only individuals with NRI status can open an FCNR account.
- Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs): PIOs holding valid proof of status are eligible.
- Joint Accounts: Can be opened jointly with another NRI/PIO.
Documents Required to Apply for HDFC Bank FCNR Account
To open a Foreign Currency Non-Resident (FCNR) account with HDFC Bank, you need to submit the following documents:
- Valid Passport or PAN Card
- Visa/OCI/PIO Card
- Overseas Address Proof:
- Passport-sized Photos
Conclusion
HDFC Bank FCNR Account is a good choice for NRIs who want to keep their savings in foreign currency in India. It offers competitive interest rates, flexible tenure options, and tax benefits. The account also allows easy repatriation of funds, making it convenient for NRIs. Overall, it is a safe and reliable option for growing your money in India with low risk.