
Opening a Zerodha NRI account is a straightforward process that can be completed online. You'll need to provide your PAN card, passport, and a valid address proof.
Zerodha offers a dedicated NRI account called the Zerodha NRI account, which is specifically designed for Non-Resident Indians. This account allows you to invest in Indian stocks and mutual funds.
To open an NRI account, you'll need to download and fill out the application form, which can be found on the Zerodha website. The form requires your personal and financial details, including your PAN card number and bank account information.
Once you've submitted your application, Zerodha will verify your documents and open your account within 3-5 working days. You can then fund your account using a wire transfer or online payment methods.
Benefits and Features
Zerodha NRI account offers a range of benefits and features that make it an attractive option for non-resident Indians.
You can enjoy trading services at lower brokerage charges, which is a significant advantage for NRI investors.
Zerodha is the largest stock broker in India in terms of active customers, providing access to a vast network of traders and investors.
The broker offers access to trading software and tools that are considered the best in the industry, making it easier for NRI investors to navigate the markets.
Some of the key features of the Zerodha NRI account include:
- Maximum cost: Rs.100 to Rs.200, depending on your pick.
- No intraday trading is offered.
- Dedicated assistance from the broker's team.
- Trading is available through the app or website at the same time.
- Algo and basket trading options.
- Clear and straightforward fee structure.
Zerodha's brokerage charges are among the lowest in the industry, making it an affordable option for NRI investors.
The broker offers a range of trading platforms, including web, mobile, and terminal software, making it easy for NRI investors to trade from anywhere in the world.
Zerodha's NRI demat account supports NRO accounts with any bank, but NRI customers must open their NRE accounts with HDFC Bank, IDFC First Bank, IndusInd Bank, Axis Bank, or Yes Bank.
Documents and Requirements
To open a Zerodha NRI account, you'll need to submit various documents, including a copy of your PIS permission letter, FEMA declaration, and PAN card. These documents are mandatory for the account opening process.
You'll also need to provide proof of your overseas address, such as a driving license, foreign passport, or utility bills. If you have an Indian passport, you'll need to provide a photocopy of it along with your visa. If you have a foreign passport, a copy of your PIO/OCI card will be required.
Here are the key documents you'll need to submit:
- Copy of PIS permission letter
- FEMA declaration
- PAN card
- Overseas address proof (e.g., driving license, foreign passport, utility bills)
- Indian address proof (if available)
- Passport size photograph
- Proof of NRE or NRO bank account (e.g., canceled cheque or bank statement)
- Declaration of PO Box in your residing country
- FATCA Declaration Form
Requirements
To open a Zerodha NRI trading and Demat account, you'll need to submit a copy of your PIS permission letter provided by the bank where you have an NRI bank account.
You'll also need to provide a copy of your PAN card, which must be self-attested and notarized by an authorized authority.
Overseas address proof is a must, and you can provide a copy of your driving license, foreign passport, utility bills, bank statement, notarized copy of rent agreement, leave & license agreement, or sale deed.
If you have an Indian address, you'll need to provide proof of it as well.

A passport size photograph is also required, along with a copy of your valid passport and visa if you have an Indian passport.
In the case of a foreign passport, you'll need to provide a copy of the valid passport and a copy of the PIO/OCI card.
You'll need to provide proof of your NRE or NRO bank account, which can be a canceled cheque or a bank statement.
A Declaration of P.O. Box in the country of your residence is also required.
Additionally, you'll need to submit a Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) Declaration Form.
Here's a list of the required documents:
- Copy of PIS permission letter
- Copy of PAN card
- Overseas address proof
- Indian address proof (if any)
- Passport size photograph
- Copy of valid passport and visa (if Indian passport)
- Copy of valid passport and PIO/OCI card (if foreign passport)
- Proof of NRE or NRO bank account
- Declaration of P.O. Box
- FATCA Declaration Form
Note that the attesting authority should affix a 'Verified with Original' stamp, name, designation, signature, and date on the documents.
International Deposits
International Deposits can be made by NRIs through regular banking channels, allowing them to transfer funds from their overseas bank accounts to their NRE/NRO accounts in India.
To transfer funds from abroad, the international transfer fee varies from bank to bank, and NRIs can also use Wise to transfer funds to their Indian accounts at competitive rates.
Zerodha does not charge any international transfer fee from its NRI customers, which is a relief for those looking to save on transfer costs.
NRIs can deposit funds to their Zerodha Demat Account from abroad using regular banking channels, transferring money to their NRE/NRO accounts in India first, and then to their PIS accounts by internal transfer.
They can also credit their Zerodha trading accounts directly by NEFT/RTGS/payment gateways for their non-PIS transactions, providing a convenient option for those who want to trade immediately.
It's essential to note that the outward remittance fee also varies from bank to bank, so NRIs should research and compare fees before making a transfer.
Opening and Managing the Account
To open a Zerodha NRI account, you'll need to download the account opening form in PDF format from the Zerodha website. Click on the 'Download & resources' link at the bottom of the page, go to the 'Application Form' section, and download the PDF.
You can open an NRI account with Zerodha if you have an NRI bank account with Axis Bank, HDFC Bank, IDFC First Bank, or IndusInd Bank. However, if you're looking to trade only in F&O, you can open an NRO non-PIS enabled account without PIS permission.
Zerodha doesn't allow customers to trade in equity markets without PIS, so you'll need to obtain PIS permission from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) before opening an NRE or NRO account. You can open an NRE and NRO account simultaneously, but you're only allowed to map one bank account to your trading and Demat account.
Here's a step-by-step guide to opening a Zerodha NRI account:
1. Open an NRI Bank account with one of the partner banks (Axis Bank, HDFC Bank, IDFC First Bank, or IndusInd Bank).
2. Get PIS permission from the RBI with the help of your bank.
3. Open a custodial account with Orbis Financial Corporation Limited and get a CP code.
4. Arrange copies of supporting documents and get them attested by a competent authority.
5. Download the account opening form in PDF format, fill it out, and scan the filled form along with supporting documents.
6. Send the documents to Zerodha's NRI desk through email for verification, and then courier them to Zerodha's Bangalore office in India.
To manage and operate your Demat account from abroad, you can use the Zerodha trading process, which involves fund allocation, placing orders, fund settlement, and stocks settlement. Zerodha will send a contact note to the bank, which will debit funds from your PIS account and credit them to Zerodha. When selling stocks, Zerodha will send a sell contract note to the bank and credit the proceeds from the sale to your PIS bank account.
Here's a summary of the steps to follow:
- Fund allocation: Transfer funds from your NRE/NRO bank account to your PIS Bank Account.
- Place order: Use the trading software to place an order for buying or selling shares.
- Fund settlement: Zerodha will send a contact note to the bank, which will debit funds from your PIS account and credit them to Zerodha.
- Stocks settlement: Zerodha will credit the stocks to your NRI demat account.
Brokerage and Fees
Zerodha NRI account brokerage charges are simple to understand, but there are some key things to know. For equity delivery with PIS, it's 0.5% or Rs.200 per trade, whichever is lower.
There's a choice between PIS and non-PIS, which affects the cost. Trading in equity futures or options costs a flat Rs.100 per trade.
Here are the brokerage fees for different types of trades:
You'll also be charged Rs. 500 for NRIs trading & demat account opening, in addition to the brokerage charges.
Brokerage Fee
Zerodha charges a flat Rs.100 per trade for equity futures and options trading. This is a straightforward fee that applies to all trades.
For equity delivery, the brokerage fee is capped at either 0.5% of the trade value or Rs.200, whichever is lower. This means you'll never pay more than Rs.200 for an equity delivery trade.
The brokerage fee for equity delivery with PIS is the same as non-PIS, at 0.5% or Rs.200 per trade, whichever is lower. However, non-PIS has a lower cap of Rs.100 per trade.
Zerodha charges NRIs a higher brokerage fee compared to Indian Resident Traders. This is because servicing NRI clients requires extra effort.
Here's a breakdown of the brokerage fees for NRIs:
You'll be charged Rs.500 for opening an NRI trading and demat account. Additionally, you'll need to pay brokerage charges, which are outlined in the table above.
International Transfer Fees
Zerodha doesn't charge any international transfer fee from its NRI customers, but the international transfer fee varies from bank to bank.
You can transfer funds from abroad to the NRE/NRO account through regular banking channels, but be aware that the fees will differ depending on the bank.
Alternatively, you can use Wise to transfer funds to your Indian accounts at competitive rates.
Investing and Trading
You can buy and sell stocks and derivatives, but only in the delivery segment, with a Zerodha NRI account. This means you can hold onto stocks long-term with equity delivery orders accessible to NRI clients.
Zerodha NRI account holders can trade in futures and options (F&O) but not commodities currency options and futures. If you're into options or futures for stocks, yes, you're in luck, as trading is allowed for these products.
You can also trade in Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) with your Zerodha NRI account, a convenient option for NRIs looking to invest in the Indian market.
Products Provided
With a Zerodha NRI Demat Account, you can hold onto stocks long-term with equity delivery orders accessible to NRI clients.
Equity intraday trading isn't allowed for NRI clients, so if you're thinking of quick trades on the same day, you'll need to look elsewhere.
Options and futures for stocks are trading options for NRI clients, which is a plus.
Commodities, currency options, and futures are not available for NRI clients.
IPO services are also available, providing a chance to invest in new and growing companies.
Why Invest?
Investing with a reliable and reputable broker is essential for a smooth and secure investment experience. Zerodha is India's most prominent stockbroker, certified by the stock exchange and clients.
They have been in operation since 2010, which is a testament to their stability and trustworthiness. You can trust them with your investments.
One of the key features of Zerodha's NRI account is that it allows you to buy and sell stocks and derivatives, but only in the delivery segment. This means you can't engage in intra-day trading.
Zerodha provides two primary services: a trading account and a demat account. The trading account lets you trade on the BSE and NSE, giving you access to a wide range of investment opportunities.
You can also have another NRI or Indian resident as a nominee for your demat account, which can provide an added layer of security for your investments.
Mutual Fund
You can invest in Mutual Funds through Zerodha's 'Coin' online platform. However, NRI customers are not eligible to invest through this platform.
Zerodha offers a Demat account that NRI customers can use to invest in mutual funds through an Asset Management Company (AMC).
PIS
PIS is an essential part of investing and trading, and it's great to have a clear understanding of how it works.
To start, you can add funds from your linked NRE or NRO accounts to your PIS account. This is a straightforward process that allows you to access your money for trading.
The bank reports the PIS balance to Zerodha at the end of the day, which is a key step in the process. This balance gets updated in the Zerodha account, allowing you to place orders and trade.
You can place your order and purchase stocks, and Zerodha will send the "Buy Contract" note to the bank at EOD. This is a critical step that enables the bank to debit the PIS account and credit Zerodha on T+1 day.
Here's a summary of the PIS process in a few key steps:
- Add funds from linked NRE or NRO accounts to PIS account.
- Bank reports PIS balance to Zerodha at EOD.
- Zerodha sends "Buy Contract" note to bank at EOD.
- Bank debits PIS account and credits Zerodha on T+1 day.
When selling from the demat account, Zerodha sends a "Sell Contract" to the bank at EOD to calculate TDS. This is another important step that ensures you pay the correct amount of tax on your gains.
Non-PIS
If you have a Non-PIS account, you can still transfer funds to your Zerodha account directly through payment gateways, NRFT, or RTGS from your existing accounts.
You can use the same trading process as those with PIS accounts, making it easy to get started.
To transfer funds, you'll need to use a payment gateway, NRFT, or RTGS from your existing accounts, which can be done directly with Zerodha.
Here are the options you can use to transfer funds:
- Payment gateways
- NRFT
- RTGS
App Platforms
The Zerodha NRI App and Trading Platforms offer a range of convenient and reliable trading options. You can download the Kite Trading App on iOS or Android for seamless trading experiences.
The Kite Web Trading Platform is another option for those who prefer trading on their computer or don't want to use a mobile app. Both the Kite Trading App and the Kite Web Trading Platform are accessible.
Zerodha's Algo Trading Platform is a game-changer, allowing you to automate your trading strategies and make things easier. This platform is one of the best features of Zerodha.
The Foreign Stock Trading Platform is not available at the moment, but you can use the Basket Trading Platform to place multiple orders simultaneously, simplifying your trading strategy.
Here are the Zerodha NRI App and Trading Platforms in brief:
- Kite Trading App: Available for iOS and Android
- Kite Web Trading Platform: For computer users or those who don't want a mobile app
- Algo Trading Platform: Automates trading strategies
- Basket Trading Platform: Allows multiple orders simultaneously
Customer Support and Services
You can reach Zerodha NRI Customer Care at +91-080 4719 2020 or via email at [email protected].
Their dedicated support team is available to answer your trading and related queries. However, be aware that some services may come with a charge.
You can also check them out on Facebook and Twitter for extra support.
Services Provided
Zerodha NRI Trading Account holders have access to a range of services that cater to their needs.
Demat services are available, which is a must-have for any trading account.
Trading services are also provided, but intraday assistance may not be available.
F&O trading is supported, which is great news for those who want to explore futures and options.
IPO services are also available, making it easy to participate in Initial Public Offerings.
Unfortunately, portfolio management services (PMS) and personalized portfolio creation (PCG) are not offered.
A dedicated dealer is assigned to assist with your trading needs.
Customer Care
Zerodha's NRI customer care team is available to help with any account-related issues. You can reach them at +91-080 4719 2020 or email them at [email protected].
Their support team is dedicated to answering all your trading and related queries. If you need to contact them, you can call the provided number or email them.
The Zerodha NRI Support team is available to help with any issues you may have. They can be reached at +91-080 4719 2020 or by email at [email protected].
The broker's website also has a presence on social media, including Facebook and Twitter, where you can find extra support.
Here is a summary of the NRI customer care contact details:
Sources
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