Have you left India to live the dream abroad? But your investment dreams do not have to leave! Invest in India’s booming stock market without dusting off your passport.
Whether you are a dollar-rich person thinking of currency conversion or enjoying a vacation, you can be a part of India’s vibrant capital market with this list of Top NRI trading accounts.
One of the best ways to get started in the Indian equity market is by opening a Demat account. A Demat account can transform the NRI experience with its secure platform and multiple financial products.
Finding the Best NRI Demat account in India involves various factors, including a smooth and profitable investment event.
List of Top 10 NRI Trading Accounts in India
If you want to open an NRI trading account in India, consider several facts and figures for your in-house research.
Also, your search for Top 10 Demat Accounts for NRIs may need third-party research and advice. Aiming this, here is a simple breakdown of some major factors behind the rank of NRI demat account.
Firstly, as an NRI, choose a brokerage with easy access and less paperwork. In addition, try a brokerage house that provides multiple products for basic trade.
Brokerage fees are a major factor to consider. NRIs should try to get a free account and AMC for at least one year.
It is always good to prefer a low brokerage fee or a flat fee structure per trade. Also, the focus should be on research and tech tools with a smooth mobile app for remote access.
You can’t ignore a reputed brand while investing in a foreign country. A well-established house with a proven track record should be on your final list.
Comparison of Top NRI Trading Account
As an NRI, you have some great options when finding the top NRI Demat account in India.
On the one hand, you will get a regular trading platform. On the other hand, traders have full access to extra tools, features, and products.
| NRI Account | Account Opening Charges | AMC | Delivery Charges | Option Trading Charges | MF Investment |
| Zerodha NRI Account | Rs.500 | Rs.500 + 18% GST | 0.5% or Rs.100 per Trade (whichever is low) | Rs.100 per Trade | Not Allowed |
| Angel One NRI Account | Rs.500 | Rs.450 + 18% GST | 0.50% of Transaction Value | Rs.100 per Trade | Allowed |
| Motilal Oswal NRI Account | Rs.999 | Rs.999 + 18% GST | 0.5% of Transaction Value | Rs.100 per Contract | Allowed |
| Sharekhan NRI Account | Rs.2,000 | Rs.3,000 + 18% GST | 0.5% of Transaction Value | Rs.250 per Contract | Allowed |
| IIFL Securities NRI Account | Rs.750 | Rs.400 + 18% GST | 0.5% of Transaction Value | 150 per Contract | Allowed |
| ICICI Direct NRI Account | Rs.4,000 | Rs.1200 + 18% GST | 0.50% of Transaction Value | Rs.70 per Contract | Allowed |
| HDFC Securities NRI Account | Rs.2,500 (Non-PIS), Rs.3,500 (PIS) | Rs.1,000 | 0.75% of Transaction Value | Rs.100 per Contract | Allowed |
| Kotak Securities NRI Account | Rs.3,750 | Rs.750 + 18% GST | 1% of Transaction Value | Rs.150 per Contract | Allowed |
| SBI Securities NRI Account | Rs.2,000 | Rs.600 + 18% GST | 0.75% of Transaction Value | Rs.150 per Contract | Allowed |
| 5Paisa NRI Account | Rs.450 | Rs.500 + 18% GST | Rs.80 per Trade | Rs.80 per Trade | Allowed |
As the table displays, 5Paisa has the lowest account opening charges, merely ₹450, whereas ICICI directly trails over ₹4000, the highest in the top 10 list!
Though it is a one-time investment, the difference matters for many. Coming to AMC, Sharekhan is the most expensive one at the higher end, with ₹3,000 + GST.
In contrast, Angel One and IIFL have low AMCs of ₹450 and ₹400, respectively. Now, take a dive into delivery charges; only 5Paisa has a flat fee structure of ₹80 per trade, which is helpful for new investors.
In this delivery column, Kotak Securities has the highest charges, 1% of the trade volume, whereas others maintain average charges of 0.50% of the transactions.
However, Zerodha charges ₹100 as a flat fee or 0.5%, whichever is low. Again, Options trading widens the charge gap among market leaders.
5Paisa helps you to save bucks with a flat fee of ₹80, but Sharekhan is ready to claim ₹250 from your profit pie, which is the highest on the list.
Fortunately, NRI can invest in MFs with all brokerage houses except Zerodha and Angel One.
Zerodha
As expected, Zerodha is the leader in the category of best NRI Demat account in India, securing the top position.
As the name suggests, with zero barriers for traders, India’s second-largest stock broker, Zerodha, provides discount broking services for NRIs.
It offers both Zerodha NRI Trading Account and NRI Demat Account.
- Zerodha offers both repatriable and non-repatriable accounts, depending on your goal of repatriating funds back to India.
- NRI traders are free to use PIS and non-PIS accounts; both have flat fees, and the fee depends on the trade volume.
- Nominee flexibility is another key feature of adding an NRI or resident Indian.
- Zerodha also has a simple account opening process, similar to a retail demat account.
- Security and customer support are other factors that enhance NRI’s trading events.
- Furthermore, Zerodha offers AMO and GTC facilities, ensuring you more control over trade. Ultimately, the brokerage house offers a complete solution to NRI trading.
Related Articles
ICICI Direct
If you are looking for another top-ranked NRI demat account provider, ICICI Direct is our next pick.
Backed by one of the leading banking groups, ICICI, the brokerage house provides some unique features that help to grab 2nd place in the list of top 10 NRI trading accounts.
Apart from all basic facilities, ICICI’s brand value is the best reason to join the firm. Some features are as follows—
- The ICICI facility allows eATM to transfer funds to traders within 5 minutes, avoiding the need to wait 2 or 3 days on the list.
- The benefits of tax advantages include automatic deduction and settlement of capital gain tax, saving consulting costs.
- In addition, traders can adjust short-term losses in the same FY.
- Participate and get covered with multiple products like IPOs, derivatives and EPFs.
- Cover both the NSE and BSE markets.
- Keeping the trader’s interest in mind, it allows both repatriable and non-repatriable funds for NRIs.
- 3-in-1 account facility to provide savings, demat and trading facility from a single login.
HDFC Securities
With a strong presence of 25 years in the market, HDFC securities manage the same reputation in NRI-services.
The firm has created a NRI-friendly brand value by providing smooth NRI Demat account service in India.
Moreover, its USP lies in its advanced tools, smooth customer support, and the best advice in the market. HDFC Securities already gets an A+ rating by ICRA.
Its feature-rich NRI services offer—
- Enjoy a free account with zero opening charges, and get a hassle-free account opening process.
- In addition, NRI traders can place orders beyond business hours with an off-market order placement facility.
- Access digital loan facilities against your holdings, helping traders in unavoidable case
- Quick fund transfer between NRE and NRO accounts
- Dedicated RM manager to guide NRI traders in the right way
- Get full access to a wide range of products, including IPOs, bonds, and NCDs.
- Received auto transfer of dividends and stock splits; there is no need to maintain paperwork, reflected in the app.
- Multiple trading platforms in both Android and Apple store.
- Standard brokerage with one year free AMC charge, helping new traders to keep more profits in their pocket.
Angel One
Angel One, previously known as Angel Broking, ranked fourth in the list of best trading accounts for NRIs in India.
With its user-friendliness and ethical fee, Angel One makes NRI trading more accessible than ever before.
Ultimately, Angel One helps you grow your wealth from your comfort zone, wherever you may be. Also, NRIs have diversified product lines from which to choose, except mutual funds.
- NRIs have full access to multiple platforms, such as Angel SpeedPro, Angel One Trade, and the Angel One mobile App.
- Traders can join various asset classes from a single account, including equities, derivatives and fresh IPOs.
- Get account owner flexibility and open an account singly or with another NRI partner.
- In addition, NRIs have the option to choose between repatriable or non-repatriable accounts and consult the advisory body.
- If you earn dividends, interests or other bonuses, they will be credited directly to the linked NRI bank account.
5Paisa
For valid reasons, 5Paisa grabbed 5th position in the list of top demat accounts for NRI in India. It is one of the best options for NRIs to start trading in the Indian market.
A user-friendly interface, less paperwork, a quick process and low brokerage are valid reasons to lift its rank.
- A pocket-friendly and hassle-free platform for NRI investors, in some cases, charges are lower than others.
- Backed by reputed IIFL capital group of business — in-depth knowledge of NRI trading.
- 5Paisa makes a difference with multiple channels, including a mobile app, web page, algo trading platform, foreign stocks, MF platforms and basket trading platform
- Allow capital appreciation and hedging strategies.
- In addition, NRI traders can explore a wide range of products to diversify their portfolio
- You can exit anytime without a penalty. You can also activate the account with old login credentials; there is no extra charge.
SBI Securities
Backed by India’s largest public sector lender, SBI group, SBI securities achieved 6th position in the list of best trading accounts for NRIs in India.
By combining trusted brand names, flexible options, and standard brokerage for NRIs, SBI Securities has become a viable option for non-resident traders.
- First and foremost, the SBI brand name provides peace of mind to investors due to its proven record and 60-year-old banking legacy.
- SBI has almost 200+ foreign offices, making it easy to visit a branch or get advice from the same foreign country.
- Offers 3-in-account — PIS, Demat and Trading ( except US, UK, Canada and Japan)
- A dedicated RM team support in Indian and Middle Eastern countries
- Additionally, the account opens multiple investment avenues for traders beyond the equity market
- An ethical fee structure, tax relief, and a strong promise of regulatory compliance for both India and your present country.
Sharekhan
BNP Paribas’s Sharekhan is now part of the South Korean firm Mirae Asset Financial Group. It provides a range of productive financial assets, including NRI solutions.
The new restructure solidifies Sharekhan’s position so that the company is placed on the top NRI trading accounts list.
- Placement of 9 Lakh orders daily, including domestic and foreign
- The full-service broker has repatriable or non-repatriable and NRE or NRO options as the trader needs.
- The associated group has a global presence with 64 countries, which is helpful for NRIs
- Importantly, Sharekhan strongly promises to take care of NRII’s trader’s interests, whether it is in the product or the fee.
- Regarding pricing, their service and dedication level justifies the price; the price range is between moderate and high in various trading parts.
Kotak Securities
Under the strong leadership of Kotak Mahindra Bank group, Kotak Securities stands as a prime player in the Indian financial landscape.
It upholds and continues the parent company’s reputation through various solutions to traders, including NRIs.
Undoubtedly, its reliable support and promise of value-added service to asset appreciation tricks help the firm rank in the list of best NRI trading accounts.
Here is a closer look at what they offer.
- Get access to advanced trading software, the KEAT Pro X Trading Platform. Now, you can set customized watchlists, analyze stocks, and track momentum on a single screen.
- Keep Demat, Trading, and PIS accounts under one roof with a single login
- Get the best advice from market experts with in-depth market analysis
- Kotak payment gateway for a quick and secured fund transfer
- Benefits of free earning source for NRIs from Kotak Securities Academy
- In addition, NRI traders will get daily reports, company analysis and sector-wise research.
Motilal Oswal
Mr Motilal Oswal and Mr R Agrawal’s brainchild firm, Motilal Oswal, have 30 years of presence in the Indian capital market.
This is another leading broking house that quickly makes a place on the list of best NRI Demat accounts in India.
Strong leadership, market analysis, and support make it more friendly for NRI traders. At present, its market capital has marked almost $4 billion valuations.
- A robust risk management team is available to help traders in all sections and support many tools, such as stopping loss orders.
- The full-service stock brokerage has 30,000+ research papers to support retain and NRI investors.
- Also, the feature-rich trade platform boosts traders’ confidence from anywhere in the world; it contains trading terminals and algo trading facilities.
- A 24/7 helpline for NRI traders to ensure peace of mind by breaking different timezone.
- Importantly, non-resident traders will get daily advice and door-step account opening services.
- In summary, Motilal Oswal is the one-stop financial store that helps you in all market weathers.
IIFL Securities
Though IIFL ranked 10th in the list of top 10 NRI Demat accounts in India, it is considered one of the most accessible tickets to get into the Indian stock market, even for people abroad.
In fact, 28 years of journey in the equity market have been deeply rooted in the NRI trading facility.
In summary, its simple process, proven results, and advanced research have helped thousands of Indian traders across the globe.
- From an advanced trading platform to supportive customer care, all are wrapped up in a single house of IIFL.
- In-house research to help NRI traders find the most suitable products for their portfolio.
- NRI-friendly SIP option widens the long-term investment in mutual funds.
- Real-time monitoring of mutual funds to enhance profit within the risk appetite. Track it from anywhere, anytime.
- Make a data-driven investment decision with additional tools.
Best NRI Demat Account with Low Brokerage Charges
NRIs who are considering the best Demat account for NRIs in India should be mindful of brokerage, AMC, and account open or closing charges, including tax slabs, during withdrawal.
However, Zerodha attracts many active clients for highly affordable brokerages. Its equity delivery charge is a mere 0.5% or ₹100 of trade; a lower one applies only to non-PIS accounts. However, PIS account holders must pay ₹200 instead of ₹100.
5Paisa asks ₹150 on equity delivery for a PIS account, almost double that of non-PIS account holders who must pay a flat ₹80. For Equity F&O, a flat fee of ₹80 is debited.
Moving on to the next, Angle One’s delivery charge aligns with the market standard, offering 0.50% or 0.05% per trade unit; a lower one is applied.
In contrast, ICICI Direct has more flexibility, and charges depend on different plans. For example, delivery charges fluctuate between 0.20% to 0.50% with four different plans introduced by the house.
With Sharekhan, traders pay 0.50% of the transaction value for delivery trades. Charges are reduced to 0.1% when trading equity futures. A flat fee of ₹250 is set per contract note.
Also, you have to include TDS, STT, SEBI charges, BSE charges and 18% GST.
Best NRI Demat Account in India with amazing Trading Apps & Platforms
Other vital factors to remember while screening the top trading accounts for NRIs include a smooth app and a supportive trading platform.
To begin with, Zerodha Kite is the NRI trading platform designed with top-notch tech, research tools and whatnot. Also, it includes a straightforward interface, real-time market data, global watchlists, and more.
Angel One has Angel Speed Pro as desktop support, including the AngelOne App for Android and the Apple market. It also combines multi-language support and fundamental analysis tools.
Next, the IIFL App offers SIP investment and real-time portfolio tracking. You can’t ignore its in-depth research and diversified options.
Now, it comes with Sharekhan Apps; it’s famous among traders for risk management tools and various order types( limit orders, stop loss orders).
Last but not least, the ICICI securities app also stands out for its smooth integration with banking services beyond trade. It is also getting attention for research and advisory services.
Best NRI Trading Account with FastTrack Support & Customer Care
Investing in the Indian market by NRIs can be more rewarding with proper advisory and customer care teams. Here are some of the best NRI trading accounts with robust support.
For Angel One, you can drop an email or dial the helpline number 18001020 within Indian business hours. Similarly, HDFC Securities also invested heavily in research support and helpline numbers.
NRIs from Singapore, the US, the UK, or Canada call their designated helpline, while others can dial their regular helpline during working hours in India.
ICICI also has a separate helpline for UAE, Singapore, Australia and the UK; you can call their NRI customer care number: 91-22-3914 0422.
Though Motilal Oswal does not have a dedicated NRI helpline, you can reach out to the compliance officer, customer care head, or even the CEO!
Discount broker Zerodha has the most extensive FAQ library to help you solve your fundamental problems. Despite that, you can call 080 4719 2020 or 080 7117 5337 from Monday to Friday.
Best Trading Account in India with Innovative Products & Services
NRIs seeking to invest in India also prefer a wide range of potential products and smooth services beyond just trading. So, here are the best NRI trading account service providers with the best products and services.
Full-service brokerage house Motilal Oswal offers a wide range of products for NRIs. In addition to equities, they also offer derivatives, mutual funds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and IPOs.
Also, Sharekhan offers NRI portfolio restructuring services at a limited level; it offers mutual funds and fresh IPOs. Following this trend, SBI securities developed a range of NRI-specific products and services.
However, Angel One maintains a balance between features and products and features available for NRIs. They have no mutual fund access but allow for PMS and IPO with research reports.
Finally, the popular discount broker Zerodha offers IPOs and trading services, but it does not accept intraday or mutual funds.
Best NRI Demat Account wit High Brand Value
Brand value plays a crucial role in NRI’s investment decisions. Here is an analysis of how some market leaders use brand values to attract NRIs.
It is also helpful while making a wishlist of the top 10 NRI demat accounts in India.
ICICI Direct and HDFC Securities both have a decade-old banking reputation in India; even HDFC is considered the largest private lender in India.
Their extensive branches use this banking group to get the attention of NRIs. Surprisingly, HDFC Sky, the extended arm of HDFC Securities, received 3 lakh clients within six months of launch!
Zerodha, a relatively new player, now also targets NRIs and the retail market with low brokerage and advanced tech support.
Their cost-effective service is another factor behind their gigantic presence in the present market.
Similarly, Angel One manages its brand identity after rebranding, restructuring the firm and investing more in new tech development.
Even 5Paisa has positioned itself as a low brokerage service provider in the client’s mind.
What is an NRI Demat Account?
An NRI demat account is a dematerialized account specially designed for NRIs. It allows NRIs to invest in the Indian market through stocks, ETFs, bonds, IPOs, mutual funds, etc.
Here, dematerialization means getting stock ownership papers electronically. There are two main types of NRI Demat accounts:
- Repatriable Demat Account
- Non-Repatriable Demat Account
What are the benefits of the NRI Demat Account?
NRI trading account has an ample number of benefits —
- Potential tax benefits and other reliefs
- NRIs can invest in the Indian market remotely
- By opening an NRI Demat Account, NRIs can diversify their investment portfolio beyond the equities.
- Greater control over the portfolio from anywhere in the world
- Enjoy high returns with risk-reducing tools
- Finally, the repatriation of the fund directly to an overseas account without a middleman
- Get learning sessions with research materials tutorials and boost confidence with the best suggestions.
- Moreover, an NRI trading account always offers a smooth and easy gateway for all those Indians outside the country.
However, checking the evaluation carefully to ensure the chosen account fits your investment goals is good.
Best NRI Demat Account in India – Conclusion
The scope of the NRI demat account in the Indian economy is promising in this booming market.
As the Indian capital market continues to grow and integrate with the world, NRIs play a crucial role in investment inflow. Moreover, increased NRI participation boosts the market’s liquidity.
As India is rising as a preferred destination for global investors, the scope of the NRI demat account is expected to expand.
So, if you want to join this win-win situation, check the list of the best NRI demat accounts in India and get your preferred one today.
FAQs on Best NRI Trading Account in India
Check out various FAQs related to the Top 10 Demat Accounts for NRIs.
Which is the Best NRI Demat Account?
Angel is the best choice if you want a fine balance between investment, brokerage, and return.
Which account is safe for NRI Investment?
All the accounts mentioned above are safe. After all, they have to qualify under the strict rules of regulators.
Which are the Top 5 NRI Demat Accounts?
You can follow this sequence: Zerodha, ICICI Direct, HDFC Securities, Angel One, and 5Paisa. However, the conditions may vary for each year.
Which NRI Demat Account is best for FnO Trading?
For F&O trading, here is a list picked by experts —Motilal Oswal, HDFC Securities, and Angel One.
Which NRI Account is suitable for Tips & Calls?
For Tips & Calls, traders should rely on Motilal Oswal, Angel One, and SBI Securities.
Which NRI Trading Account charges are the lowest?
It depends on various factors. For example, the account opening charge is the lowest at 5 Paisa.
However, IIFL has the lowest AMC in the market. Regarding trade, IIFL, Sharekhan, and Motilal Oswal should be on your list of lowest brokerages.
Which NRI Demat Account provides Best Support?
Traders should use Angel One, HDFC Securities, and ICICI Direct for robust support and guidance.
Which NRI Account offers amazing Features?
You can pick Motilal Oswal, Sharekhan, and ICICI Direct for unique features and tools.
Which NRI Demat Account offers Great Apps & Tools?
Zerodha is the best app-based service, followed by Angel One and IIFL Securities.
Which NRI Account offers MF Investment?
Except for Zerodha and Angel, all eight other brokerage houses provide Mutual fund investment.