SIP Plans for NRI
SIP plan for NRI refers to a Systematic Investment Plan where Non-Resident Indians invest fixed amounts at regular intervals into Indian financial instruments, such as mutual funds or ULIPs, using NRE or NRO accounts.
Key Takeaways for SIP Investment NRI
- SIP for NRI allows regular investing from the UAE into India
- ULIP SIPs combine investment + life cover
- Contributions are made via NRE/NRO accounts
- Ideal for long-term goals (10–20 years)
- Tax benefits available under Section 80C & 10(10D) (conditions apply)
- Best suited for disciplined investors, not short-term traders
Best Investment Plans in UAE
Some of the best Investment quotes in UAE & Dubai are:





| Returns | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fund Name | 1 Yr | 3 Yr | 5 Yr | Since Inception | |
![]() Moderate BlackRock Managed Index Portfolios - Defensive | 7.99% | 3.25% | 2.87% | 3.44% | |
![]() Moderate BlackRock Managed Index Portfolios - Growth | 5.57% | 5.92% | 9.19% | 8.36% | |
![]() Aggressive BlackRock Managed Index Portfolios - Moderate | 7.08% | 5.8% | 6.49% | 6.22% | |
![]() Moderate HSBC Islamic Global Equity | 8.7% | 13.41% | NA | 8.61% | |
![]() Moderate ZI Franklin India | 3.86% | 32.42% | 17.7% | 7.5% | |
![]() Aggressive Fidelity Fund Global Technology A-ACC-USD | 8.6% | 13.1% | 17.6% | 17.2% | |
![]() Moderate HSBC Islamic Global Equity | 8.7% | 13.41% | NA | 8.61% | |
![]() Aggressive KotakFunds : India Midcap Fund | 6.99% | 13.36% | 24.15% | 13.64% | |
![]() Moderate Pinebridge India Equity Fund | 26.8% | -14.9% | 8.3% | NA | |
![]() Conservative Zurich Carbon Neutral World Equity Fund | -19.69% | 29.03% | NA | NA | |
What is SIP Investment for NRIs?
SIP plans for NRIs are designed to help you tap into India’s dynamic economy and capitalise on market-linked investment opportunities, while also exploring suitable investment plans in UAE for portfolio diversification. These plans offer a hassle-free way to invest in mutual funds.
Among the most remarkable aspects of SIPs is their systematic approach to investing, which minimises the impact of market volatility and helps you achieve long-term financial goals such as —
- Retirement planning
- Family security
- Tax savings
With the added advantage of tax benefits and access to attractive interest rates, SIP plans serve as a reliable investment vehicle for those seeking financial growth. Let’s find out more about SIP investment in India for NRIs.
Repatriable vs Non-Repatriable SIP Investment NRI
|
Repatriable SIPs |
Non-Repatriable SIPs |
|---|---|
|
|
Best SIP Plans for NRI 2026
The table below shows the best SIP for NRI in India, compared on the basis of annualised return and expense ratio —
|
SIP Plans |
Annualised Return (5-years) (%) |
Expense Ratio (%) |
|---|---|---|
|
ICICI Prudential Infrastructure Fund |
29.16 |
1.15 |
|
SBI Bluechip Direct Plan Growth |
14.3 |
0.79 |
|
Nippon India Small Cap Fund Direct - Growth |
26.27 |
0.64 |
|
Baroda BNP Paribas Large Cap Fund Direct Growth |
14.81 |
0.82 |
|
Aditya Birla Sun Life Medium Term Direct - Growth |
12.88 |
0.82 |
|
Mirae Asset Large Cap Fund Direct - Growth |
13.3 |
0.54 |
|
Kotak Bluechip Fund Direct Growth |
15.08 |
0.63 |
|
Edelweiss Mid Cap Fund - Regular Plan |
23.17 |
1.67 |
|
HDFC Flexi Cap Fund Direct - Growth |
22.72 |
0.65 |
|
Axis Mid Cap Direct Plan-Growth Fund |
22.09 |
1.35 |
1. ICICI Prudential Infrastructure Fund
ICICI Prudential Infrastructure Direct-Growth is one of the best SIP plans for NRI, focusing on infrastructure investments. The fund primarily invests in sectors like financials, energy, construction, materials, and metals & mining. It has comparatively lower exposure to financial and energy sectors than most other funds in its category.
|
Exit load |
1.0% |
|---|---|
|
AUM (Fund size) |
₹8,134 Cr |
|
Lock-in Period |
Nil |
|
Inception |
12 Oct 1993 |
|
Benchmark |
BSE India Infrastructure TRI |
|
Min. investment |
SIP: ₹500 (AED 20.19) & |
|
Risk |
Very High |
Top 5 Holdings:
- NTPC Ltd.
- ICICI Bank Ltd.
- Shree Cement Ltd.
- Larsen & Toubro Ltd.
- JM Financial Ltd.
2. SBI Blue Chip Fund
SBI Bluechip Direct Plan-Growth is a large-cap mutual fund from SBI Mutual Fund. This fund is ideal for investors who are looking to invest for a period of 3 to 4 years with the goal of achieving high returns.
|
Exit load |
0.25% |
|---|---|
|
AUM (Fund size) |
₹55,879 Cr |
|
Lock-in Period |
Nil |
|
Inception |
14 Feb, 2006 |
|
Benchmark |
BSE 100 TRI |
|
Min. investment |
SIP: ₹500 (AED 20.19) & |
|
Risk |
Very High |
Top 5 Holdings:
- Infosys Ltd.
- HDFC Bank Ltd.
- ITC Ltd.
- ICICI Bank Ltd.
- Larsen & Toubro Ltd.
3. Nippon India Small Cap Fund
Nippon India Small Cap Fund Direct-Growth primarily invests in sectors like capital goods, financials, services, consumer staples, and healthcare. As one of the best SIP plans for NRIs, this fund is suitable for investors with a long-term horizon.
|
Expense ratio |
0.64% as on Dec 31, 2025 |
|---|---|
|
Exit load |
1.0% |
|
AUM (Fund size) |
₹68,287 Cr |
|
Lock-in Period |
Nil |
|
Inception |
September 16, 2010 |
|
Benchmark |
NIFTY Smallcap 250 TRI |
|
Min. investment |
SIP: ₹500 (AED 20.19) |
|
Risk |
Very High |
Top 5 Holdings:
- HDFC Bank Ltd.
- Multi Commodity Exchange Of India Ltd.
- Tube Investments Of India Ltd.
- Kirloskar Brothers Ltd.
- Apar Industries Ltd.
4. Baroda BNP Paribas Large Cap Fund
By investing in a diverse and actively managed portfolio of equities and equity-related assets, this SIP investment for NRI aims to provide long-term capital growth. Its main concentration is on large-cap businesses that can provide growth without much risk.
|
Exit load |
1.0% |
|---|---|
|
AUM (Fund size) |
₹2,702 Cr |
|
Lock-in Period |
Nil |
|
Inception |
September 23, 2004 |
|
Benchmark |
NIFTY 100 TRI |
|
Min. investment |
SIP: ₹500 (AED 20.19) & |
|
Risk |
Very High |
Top 5 Holdings:
- Reliance Industries Ltd.
- HDFC Bank Ltd.
- Tata Consultancy Services Ltd.
- ICICI Bank Ltd.
- Larsen & Toubro Ltd.
5. Aditya Birla Sun Life Medium Term Fund
The Aditya Birla Sun Life Medium Term Plan is a debt mutual fund scheme launched in 1994. It primarily focuses on lending to good-quality borrowers, offering a moderate credit profile. It invests in sectors such as government securities, microfinance, and steel.
This SIP investment in India is designed to generate both regular income and capital appreciation by investing in debt securities with a medium-term maturity. It's suitable for investors looking for a balance between safety and growth.
|
Exit load |
2.0% |
|---|---|
|
AUM (Fund size) |
₹2,905 Cr |
|
Lock-in Period |
Nil |
|
Inception |
December 23, 1994 |
|
Benchmark |
CRISIL Medium Duration Debt A-III Index |
|
Min. investment |
SIP: ₹1000 & |
|
Risk |
Moderately High |
Top 5 Holdings:
- GOI securities
- CreditAccess Grameen Ltd.
- Belstar Microfinance Pvt Ltd.
- JSW Steel Ltd.
- Adani Airport Holdings Ltd.
6. Mirae Asset Large Cap Fund
Mirae Asset Large Cap Fund Direct-Growth is a large-cap mutual fund that has demonstrated an excellent record of doubling investors’ money in the previous 5 years. As a prominent option regarding the best SIP for NRI, it is suitable for investors with a medium to long-term investment horizon.
It is well-suited for those seeking high returns but who are also prepared to handle moderate risks and potential losses along the way.
|
Exit load |
1.0% |
|---|---|
|
AUM (Fund size) |
₹41,802 Cr |
|
Lock-in Period |
Nil |
|
Inception |
April 4, 2008 |
|
Benchmark |
NIFTY 100 TRI |
|
Min. investment |
SIP: ₹1000 (AED 40.38) & |
|
Risk |
Very High |
Top 5 Holdings:
- HDFC Bank Ltd.
- Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd.
- ICICI Bank Ltd.
- Tata Consultancy Services Ltd.
- Larsen & Toubro Ltd.
7. Kotak Bluechip Growth
The fund has consistently delivered strong returns, with a focus on capital appreciation. It has demonstrated an ability to manage losses during market downturns, making it a solid choice for long-term investors.
This SIP investment for NRI targets large-cap companies that are relatively stable compared to the broader market. It selects stocks based on factors like financial strength, management strategies, reputation, and liquidity, aiming to provide steady growth with reduced risk.
|
Exit load |
1.0% |
|---|---|
|
AUM (Fund size) |
₹11,087 Cr |
|
Lock-in Period |
Nil |
|
Inception |
December 29, 1998 |
|
Benchmark |
NIFTY 100 TRI |
|
Min. investment |
SIP: ₹1000 (AED 40.38) & |
|
Risk |
Very High |
Top 5 Holdings:
- HDFC Bank Ltd.
- ICICI Bank Ltd.
- Reliance Industries Ltd.
- Infosys Ltd.
- Larsen & Toubro Ltd.
8. Edelweiss Mid Cap Fund
The Edelweiss Mid Cap Fund focuses on equity and equity-related securities of mid-cap companies. With 97.11% of investments in domestic equities, it has a significant portion in mid-cap stocks. The fund is suitable for investors with a 3-4 year horizon seeking higher returns, with moderate risks.
|
Exit load |
1.0% |
|---|---|
|
AUM (Fund size) |
₹13,650 Cr |
|
Lock-in Period |
Nil |
|
Inception |
December 26, 2007 |
|
Benchmark |
NIFTY 100 TRI |
|
Min. investment |
SIP: ₹100 & |
|
Risk |
Very High |
Top 5 Holdings:
- Dixon Technologies Ltd.
- Persistent Systems Ltd.
- Lupin Ltd.
- PB Fintech Ltd.
- Federal Bank Ltd.
9. HDFC Flexi Cap
HDFC Flexi Cap Fund Direct Plan-Growth, launched in 1999, is ideal for investors looking for high returns. This fund allows you to take advantage of investments across various market caps without any restrictions. With it, you get access to stocks in financials, healthcare, automobile, technology, and construction sectors.
|
Exit load |
1.0% |
|---|---|
|
AUM (Fund size) |
₹96,295 Cr |
|
Lock-in Period |
Nil |
|
Inception |
|
|
Benchmark |
NIFTY 500 TRI |
|
Min. investment |
SIP: ₹500 (AED 20.19) & |
|
Risk |
Very High |
Top 5 Holdings:
- ICICI Bank Ltd.
- Axis Bank Ltd.
- HDFC Bank Ltd.
- Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd.
- Cipla Ltd.
10. Axis Mid Cap Fund
Axis Midcap Direct Plan-Growth focuses on mid-cap stocks and is suitable for investors with a long-term horizon seeking higher returns. While it offers the potential for higher returns over time, investors should be prepared for fluctuations along the way.
|
Exit load |
1.0% |
|---|---|
|
AUM (Fund size) |
₹96,295 Cr |
|
Lock-in Period |
Nil |
|
Age |
Jan 01, 2013 |
|
Benchmark |
NIFTY 500 TRI |
|
Min. investment |
SIP: ₹500 (AED 20.19) & |
|
Risk |
Very High |
Top 5 Holdings:
- Persistent Systems Ltd.
- Pi Industries Ltd.
- The Indian Hotels Company Ltd.
- Trent Ltd.
- Fortis Healthcare Ltd.
How Does an SIP Investment Plan Work for NRIs?
An SIP plan for NRI offers a structured and disciplined approach to investing. Here's how it works —
Step 1: Select the Best SIP Plan
Initiate the process by choosing an SIP plan that matches your financial goals and risk tolerance. It’s best to compare the performance, objectives, and features of different SIP options to identify the most suitable plan for your needs.
Step 2: Decide on the Investment Amount
Determine how much you want to invest regularly, whether monthly, quarterly, or annually. Select the investment amount that aligns with your budget and financial goals.
Step 3: Complete the Required Formalities
Fill in the necessary details and complete your payment to activate your SIP plan. Ensure that all documentation is in place for a smooth investment process.
Step 4: Fund Manager Invests Your Money
Once your SIP is active, the fund manager will allocate your money to various assets such as equities, bonds, money market instruments, and cash (as per the fund's objectives).
Step 5: Regular Deductions for Investment
On the scheduled date, the specified SIP amount will be automatically deducted from your account and used to buy units of the chosen fund at its current Net Asset Value (NAV).
Step 6: Long-term Growth and Adjustments
Over time, your SIP investments will grow as per the performance of the fund. You can adjust your contributions as your financial goals evolve or based on market conditions.
Note: The returns from your SIP investment will depend on the performance of your selected fund.
Example: If you invest Rs. 15,000 (AED 653)* per month with an expected annual return of 10% for 6 years, the total investment would be Rs. 10,80,000 (AED 47,040)* (Rs. 15,000 x 72 months). After 6 years, using an SIP calculator, the maturity value could be Rs. 14,83,934, with Rs. 4,03,934 (AED 17,594)* estimated returns.
This highlights how SIPs not only help in wealth creation but also provide a balanced approach to financial planning.
* INR to AED rates are subject to change.
SIP Calculator
Benefits of SIP Investment for NRI in India
1. Long-Term Wealth Creation
SIP investments allow NRIs to build wealth gradually by investing a fixed amount at regular intervals. Instead of relying on lump-sum investments, SIPs spread investments over time, reducing the risk of entering the market at the wrong moment.
2. Power of Compounding
One of the biggest advantages of SIPs is compounding. Returns earned on your investments are reinvested, allowing your money to grow exponentially over time.
3. Easy Online Access from Anywhere
NRIs can start, manage, track, pause, or modify SIPs entirely online. Whether you live in the UAE, the US, or Europe, NRI SIP plans in India can be handled digitally without frequent visits or paperwork.
4. High Long-Term Return Potential
While SIPs do not guarantee returns, investing consistently in equity-oriented or balanced funds offers the potential to earn attractive long-term returns aligned with India’s economic growth.
Eligibility Criteria to Invest in Best NRI SIP Plans
Before investing, NRIs must meet the following eligibility conditions —
- Resident Status: The investor must qualify as an NRI under the Income Tax Act, 1961.
- Bank Account: An NRE, NRO, or FCNR account is mandatory for SIP investments.
- KYC Compliance: Completion of KYC, including identity proof, PAN, overseas address proof, and in-person or video verification.
- FEMA Compliance: All investments must adhere to FEMA and RBI regulations.
- Tax Compliance: Capital gains are taxable, and TDS is applicable as per Indian tax laws.
- Repatriation Rules: Investments through NRE/FCNR accounts are repatriable, while NRO accounts allow limited repatriation.
KYC Documents Required for NRI SIP Investments
To start a SIP investment India, NRIs must submit the following documents —
- Copy of Passport
- PAN Card
- Overseas Address Proof (utility bill, bank statement, rental agreement)
- Indian Address Proof (Aadhaar, voter ID, or equivalent)
- NRE/NRO Bank Account Details
- Recent Passport-Size Photographs
These documents ensure regulatory compliance and smooth onboarding.
Taxation of SIP Investments for NRIs
ULIP Taxation
|
Tax-free ULIPs |
If the total annual premium of ULIPs issued on or after Feb 1, 2021, does not exceed ₹2.5 lakh, maturity proceeds remain tax-exempt under Section 10 (10D), subject to conditions |
|---|---|
|
Taxable ULIPs |
If the annual premium exceeds ₹2.5 lakh, maturity gains are taxed as capital gains |
|
Section 80C Benefits |
Premiums up to ₹1.5 lakh per year may be claimed as a deduction, subject to conditions |
Capital Gains Tax on Mutual Funds & Taxable ULIPs
Equity Funds / Equity-Oriented ULIPs
- STCG: 20% if redeemed within 12 months
- LTCG: 12.5% on gains above ₹1.25 lakh (held over 12 months)
Debt Funds (Units acquired on or after April 1, 2023)
- All gains are taxed as per the income slab, irrespective of holding period
TDS for NRIs
- Equity Funds:
- STCG: 20%
- LTCG: 12.5% (above ₹1.25 lakh)
- Debt Funds:
- Flat 20% TDS (can be reduced under DTAA)
TDS deducted can be claimed while filing Indian income tax returns.
Double Taxation Relief (DTAA)
NRIs can avoid double taxation by claiming DTAA benefits between India and their country of residence. To claim relief, submission of the documents below is mandatory —
- Tax Residency Certificate (TRC)
- Form 10F
SIP Investment Mistakes to Avoid
To maximise returns from SIP investments for NRI, it’s essential to avoid common mistakes. Here are key pitfalls to watch out for —
| Ignoring Risk Tolerance | Failing to assess your risk tolerance can lead to selecting unsuitable funds. Choose funds that align with your ability to handle market fluctuations. |
|---|---|
| Overreacting to Market Volatility | Market fluctuations are natural. Panic selling during downturns can harm your investments. SIPs work best when held consistently through market ups and downs. |
| Investing for Short-Term Gains | SIPs are meant for long-term growth. Avoid chasing short-term profits and stay committed to your investment horizon for better outcomes. |
| Neglecting Diversification | Concentrating your investments in one fund increases risk. Diversify across various sectors and asset classes to enhance stability. |
| Ignoring Expense Ratios | High expense ratios can erode your returns. Opt for funds with lower management fees to maximize your investment growth. |
| Lacking Discipline | Consistency is key. Avoid skipping payments or withdrawing funds prematurely — sticking to your SIP plan is essential for long-term success. |
Use an SIP Calculator to Estimate Your Returns
An SIP calculator is a useful tool for NRIs to estimate the returns from SIP investments for NRI. The calculator takes into account various parameters such as the investment amount, investment duration, and expected rate of return.
With the SIP calculator, you can easily calculate the —
- Total Amount Invested
- Returns Earned
- Final Value of the Investment
With an SIP calculator, you can make informed decisions about your investments, helping you understand the potential growth of your wealth in the long term.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who should invest in SIP?
SIPs are ideal for long-term planners, beginners, small, and low-risk investors.
2. Can NRIs invest in SIPs in India?
Yes, NRIs can invest in SIPs in India. To do so, however, you must have an NRE or NRO bank account and comply with FEMA regulations.
3. Is it a good idea to invest in India as an NRI?
Yes, investing in India offers NRIs access to one of the world's fastest-growing economies, potentially higher returns, and a range of diverse investment options.
Can NRIs invest in ULIPs through SIPs in India?
Yes, NRIs can invest in ULIPs through SIPs, subject to the eligibility criteria set by the insurance company. ULIP SIPs allow NRIs to combine systematic investing with life insurance coverage while investing in Indian markets.
Is KYC mandatory for NRIs to invest in SIP plans?
Yes, KYC is mandatory for all NRIs before investing in SIPs in India. It involves submitting identity proof, overseas address proof, and PAN, and completing in-person or video verification as per regulatory norms.
What documents do NRIs need to start a SIP in India?
NRIs need a valid PAN card, passport, overseas and Indian address proof, recent photographs, and NRE or NRO bank account details. These documents are required to complete KYC and activate SIP investments.
Can NRIs use both NRE and NRO accounts for SIP investments?
NRIs can use either NRE or NRO accounts for SIP investments. Investments through NRE accounts are fully repatriable, while NRO-based SIPs have limited repatriation as per RBI rules.
Are there tax implications for NRIs investing in SIPs in mutual funds?
Yes, SIP investments for NRIs are subject to TDS at the time of redemption. The applicable tax depends on the fund type (equity or debt) and the holding period, with DTAA benefits available in eligible cases.
What factors should NRIs consider before starting a SIP?
NRIs should evaluate tax implications, repatriation rules, currency exchange risk, fund selection, and long-term financial goals. Choosing the right SIP structure ensures smoother compliance and better returns.
What is the minimum SIP amount for NRIs in India?
The minimum SIP amount for NRIs usually starts from ₹500 or ₹1,000 per month, depending on the mutual fund or ULIP provider. Some schemes may require a higher minimum investment.
Is SIP better than a lump sum investment for NRIs?
For most NRIs, SIPs are better suited for long-term wealth creation as they reduce market timing risk through rupee cost averaging. SIPs also promote disciplined investing compared to lump sum investments.
Are SIP returns guaranteed for NRIs?
No, SIP returns are not guaranteed as they depend on market performance. However, long-term SIP investing has historically delivered stable returns due to compounding and diversified exposure.
Can NRIs stop or modify SIP investments anytime?
Yes, NRIs can increase, decrease, pause, or stop SIPs at any time through online platforms. This flexibility makes SIPs a convenient investment option for NRIs with changing income or goals.
Do NRIs need RBI approval to invest in SIPs in India?
No separate RBI approval is required if SIP investments are made through NRE or NRO accounts in compliance with FEMA regulations. Most investments can be completed fully online.
Are SIP investments in India safe for NRIs?
SIP investments are regulated by SEBI and governed by Indian financial laws, making them relatively safe from a regulatory standpoint. However, market risks still apply depending on the chosen fund.
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