As the NRI homecoming season nears, many non-resident Indians (NRIs) must be revisiting their financial strategies, with life insurance emerging as a key consideration. The appeal of Indian life insurance policies is growing among NRIs, thanks to their competitive premiums, comprehensive coverage, and tax advantages.
Index Fund Corner
Sponsored
| Scheme Name | 1-Year Return | Invest Now | Fund Category | Expense Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Axis Nifty 50 Index Fund | +32.80% | Invest Now | Equity: Large Cap | 0.12% |
| Axis Nifty 100 Index Fund | +38.59% | Invest Now | Equity: Large Cap | 0.21% |
| Axis Nifty Next 50 Index Fund | +71.83% | Invest Now | Equity: Large Cap | 0.25% |
| Axis Nifty 500 Index Fund | — | Invest Now | Equity: Flexi Cap | 0.10% |
| Axis Nifty Midcap 50 Index Fund | +46.03% | Invest Now | Equity: Mid Cap | 0.28% |
How NRIs can buy life insurance in India
The process of purchasing life insurance in India has become more convenient for NRIs, with online platforms and flexible payment options simplifying the process.
NRIs can now buy policies remotely, without having to be physically present in India.
Bajaj Allianz Life and Tata AIA Life Insurance have adapted their offerings to meet the needs of overseas customers, enabling online applications and payments via NRE (non-resident external) or NRO (non-resident ordinary) accounts.
Tata AIA Life Insurance, for example, has expanded its reach by launching life insurance products through Gujarat International FinTech (GIFT) City, India’s first international financial services centre (IFSC).
This allows NRIs to access dollar-denominated policies, helping them hedge against currency fluctuations.
“NRIs can explore plans, select coverage, and customise policies from anywhere in the world,” the company noted.
Here’s a look at the process
- Policies can be purchased online, through authorised representatives, or via brokers specialising in NRI services.
- Premiums can be paid using non-resident external (NRE) or non-resident ordinary (NRO) accounts, foreign bank accounts, or even international credit cards.
- Most insurers provide digital processes for documentation and verification.
- Life Insurance companies simplify medical pre-requirements for NRIs by partnering with medical centres in over 40 countries.
Advantages of Indian life insurance policies for NRIs
Indian life insurance policies offer several benefits that make them an attractive choice for NRIs.
For instance, maturity proceeds and death benefits are often tax-free under Indian tax laws, a feature that might not be available with foreign insurance policies.
Indian insurers also offer flexibility in premium payment options, allowing NRIs to pay premiums in foreign currencies through their NRE or NRO accounts.
“India continues to provide ample opportunities for robust financial planning and capital growth, through various tools including life insurance, for NRIs,” said Rajesh Krishnan, Chief Operations and Customer Experience Officer at Bajaj Allianz Life.
Krishnan added, “India offers attractive premium rates for protection plans compared to what NRIs might pay for similar policies in their country of residence. Moreover, these products — ranging from savings and wealth-building life insurance plans — offer unique features, competitive returns, and convenience.”
A look at features and facilities offered by Indian insurers
Indian life insurers provide a range of features and facilities designed to meet the unique needs of NRIs.
One of their key offerings is the ‘Life Protect Supreme’ plan, which offers comprehensive protection up to the age of 100 years.
“This plan covers death and critical illness until 100 years of age, and accidental and disability protection up to 85 years,” explained a Tata AIA spokesperson.
The policy also allows for no limits on the sum assured and a minimum sum assured of $50,000.
Further, investing in an Indian rupee-denominated policy allows NRIs to shield themselves from foreign currency fluctuations.
Many NRIs prefer Indian policies for estate planning, as they can direct the proceeds to specific beneficiaries, ensuring that their estate is distributed as per their wishes.
“Indian policies provide tax benefits under the Indian Income Tax Act and GST laws, making them financially advantageous for NRIs,” said Nitin Mehta, Chief Distribution Officer and Head of Marketing at Bharti AXA Life Insurance.
He further noted, “Indian life insurance policies help ensure the financial security of the policyholder’s family in India, providing peace of mind, especially in case of unexpected life events.”
Mehta added that NRIs can also benefit from flexible premium payment options and comprehensive coverage.
