How Long Can You Hold an FCNR Account for?

An FCNR (Foreign Currency Non-Resident) account is a type of fixed deposit account that allows Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) to hold deposits in foreign currencies (USD, GBP, EUR, etc.) while enjoying tax-free interest in India. FCNR accounts are subject to certain rules and regulations regarding the duration for which they can be held.

Duration for Which You Can Hold an FCNR Account

The minimum tenure and maximum tenure for an FCNR account are as follows:

1. Minimum Duration: 1 Year

• The minimum duration for holding an FCNR fixed deposit is 1 year.

• This is the time period after which you can withdraw your deposit without any penalties (subject to the terms of your specific bank).

2. Maximum Duration: 5 Years

• The maximum duration for an FCNR account is 5 years.

• The deposit can be held for any period between 1 year to 5 years, but the maturity period cannot exceed 5 years.

• After the 5-year period, the account will mature, and you will have to withdraw the funds or renew the deposit.

3. Extension Beyond 5 Years

• In case you wish to continue holding your FCNR deposit beyond the 5-year term, you cannot extend the same deposit.

• However, you can open a new FCNR account for a fresh term of up to 5 years, but the old deposit will need to be closed.

Key Points to Remember:

1. Interest Payment and Reinvestment:

   • Interest on FCNR deposits is paid quarterly and is tax-free in India. The interest earned is also in the same foreign currency as the deposit. If you wish, you can reinvest the interest earned into the principal sum at the end of the tenure.

2. Premature Withdrawal:

   • Premature withdrawals are allowed, but they may incur penalties. If you withdraw your FCNR deposit before the completion of the minimum 1-year period, the interest earned may be reduced to the applicable rate for a shorter tenure.

3. Renewal of FCNR Deposits:

   • Once your FCNR deposit matures, you can either withdraw the amount or renew it for another term (up to 5 years). The renewal process is similar to opening a new deposit, and the interest rate is subject to the prevailing rates at the time of renewal.

4. Tax Benefits:

   • Interest earned on FCNR accounts is tax-free in India. The principal and interest are free from exchange rate fluctuations, as the deposit is maintained in a foreign currency.

5. Repatriation:

   • The funds in an FCNR account are fully repatriable, meaning they can be transferred to your country of residence, along with the interest earned, without restrictions.

Conclusion:

An FCNR account can be held for a minimum of 1 year and a maximum of 5 years. After 5 years, the deposit will mature, and you will have to either withdraw the funds or open a new deposit. While premature withdrawals are allowed, they may result in penalties. Always consult with your bank about specific terms and conditions and consider your future plans when deciding on the duration of your FCNR account.