NRE vs NRO vs explained: this guide covers what it means, who it applies to, the step-by-step process, documents required, fees, due dates and penalties in India — so you can stay compliant with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.
NRIs can hold NRE, NRO and FCNR accounts in India, each for a different purpose. Here is how they compare.
The three accounts
- NRE — for foreign income; rupee account, repatriable, tax-free interest
- NRO — for Indian income (rent, dividends); taxable interest, limited repatriation
- FCNR — a foreign-currency term deposit; repatriable, tax-free interest, no exchange risk
Which to use
Use NRE to park foreign earnings, NRO to manage Indian income, and FCNR to hold foreign currency deposits.
Tax
NRE and FCNR interest is tax-free in India; NRO interest is taxable with TDS.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between NRE and NRO accounts?
NRE is for foreign income (repatriable, tax-free); NRO is for Indian income (taxable, limited repatriation).
What is an FCNR account?
A foreign-currency term deposit for NRIs — repatriable with tax-free interest.
Which account is tax-free?
NRE and FCNR interest is tax-free; NRO interest is taxable.
Which account for Indian rent income?
An NRO account.
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