As an NRI or OCI looking to invest in India, you now have a globally competitive, tax-efficient investment opportunity through GIFT City.
India’s Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) is a growing hub for international banking, asset management, and cross-border financial services. NRIs and OCIs can now invest directly in India through GIFT City-based funds with fewer restrictions and significant tax advantages.
What is GIFT City?
GIFT City is India’s first International Financial Services Centre (IFSC), located in Gujarat and regulated by the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA). It provides offshore investment opportunities from within India, operating in a foreign currency environment.
Why GIFT City Funds Are a Game-Changer for NRIs
- No FEMA Restrictions
GIFT City is treated as an offshore zone, so investing here doesn’t involve FEMA-related limitations. Investors can bypass typical NRE/NRO account hurdles. - Tax Efficiency
There is no capital gains tax on listed securities, no dividend distribution tax, and no securities or commodities transaction tax. Many GIFT City funds are structured to offer tax-free returns to NRIs. - Invest in Foreign Currency
You can invest in USD, GBP, or EUR and stay outside the Indian rupee economy if preferred. - Access to Global and Indian Markets
GIFT City funds may offer exposure to both Indian and global equity, debt, and multi-asset portfolios, managed by reputed Indian fund houses. - Seamless Repatriation
Investments and returns are fully repatriable, making it easier to move funds across borders.
Who Can Invest
NRIs, OCIs, and some foreign nationals or entities (depending on the fund) are eligible. You can invest through GIFT City-based mutual funds or Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) offered by asset managers like HDFC, Motilal Oswal, Navi, SBI, and more.
How to Get Started
Open a demat and trading account with a SEBI-registered broker operating in GIFT City. Complete your non-resident KYC. Fund the account using a wire transfer or NRE account. Choose from the available mutual funds, ETFs, or AIFs based in GIFT City.
Final Thoughts
GIFT City offers NRIs and OCIs a strong opportunity to invest in India with international convenience and tax efficiency. If you want a flexible, regulated, and smart way to build wealth from abroad, GIFT City is a great place to start.