Retirement plans for NRI

Retirement planning for non-resident Indians includes various savings and investment plans designed to help build wealth that ensures lifelong Read more financial independence. The structured and straightforward methods ensure you're financially ready when you are in your retirement phase. Additionally, appropriate NRI retirement solutions provide advantages, including tax relief, convenient fund transfer options, and assured income streams. NRI can purchase policy when visiting India. Read less

Retirement planning for non-resident Indians includes various savings and investment plans Read more designed to help build wealth that ensures lifelong financial independence. The structured and straightforward methods ensure you're financially ready when you are in your retirement phase. Additionally, appropriate NRI retirement solutions provide advantages, including tax relief, convenient fund transfer options, and assured income streams. NRI can purchase policy when visiting India. Read less

qsdv

Secure Your Parents' Future with a One-Time Investment

Are you an NRI?

No

Yes
No

Gender

Male

Male
Female

Do you smoke?

No

Yes
No

+91

Please tick the check box to proceed
Verify OTP

Kindly enter the OTP sent to

+91 736365432 Edit

Please enter valid OTP

00:60

Didn't receive OTP?

Verify OTP

Kindly enter the OTP sent to

+91 736365432

Please enter valid OTP

01:60

Didn't receive OTP?

Success Icon

Success

Your details have been successfully submitted. A representative from Tata AIA Life Insurance will call you soon.

Failure Icon

Failure

Your details could not be saved.
Please try again.

What is a Retirement plan for NRI?

If you are currently employed abroad but plan to return to India upon retirement, NRI retirement plans may be a suitable option for you. You may get similar regulations in taxation or repatriation. A retirement plan in India not only helps you understand various pension plans for NRIs that include savings and investment benefits but also allows you to explore suitable retirement investment options in India and access your funds globally. 

Retirement Planning Calculator

Total amount required for retirement

₹2.98 Crore

Monthly saving to accumulate this amount

₹31,334

Why NRIs need dedicated Retirement solutions?

As an NRI, ensuring a financially secure and comfortable retirement can be a complex challenge, especially when living far from home. Although most countries have retirement schemes, their benefits might not be suited to meet the specific requirements of NRIs who must plan for a future involving multiple locations. 

You need a financial plan that's flexible and considers inflation estimates, risk tolerance, current cost of living, ongoing healthcare needs, emergencies, and family dependencies. 

Let’s understand why NRIs need dedicated retirement solutions.

  • To diversify your investments across several retirement products, such as unit-linked insurance plans, annuity schemes, and national pension programmes, to protect your wealth against the effects of inflation.
  • To avail income tax2 deductions from pension schemes, special foreign currency deposits, and retirement savings accounts.
  • To protect your overseas income from any exchange rate variation through strategic repatriation. Many financial consultants suggest retaining part of your savings in euros or dollar denominations. Stable foreign currencies can hedge against such uncertainties.
  • To manage finances easily across different countries through specialised banking accounts for NRIs.
  • To continue investing in PPF accounts: Though NRIs cannot create new PPF accounts from abroad, they can continue investing in the ones they already hold and avail their benefits.


Tata AIA’s Best Selling Retirement Plans


 

Types of Retirement plans available for NRIs

There are various NRI pension plans available in India. You can choose one based on your financial goal, risk tolerance and age.

  • Unit-Linked Pension Products (ULIPs)

    :
     ULIPs offers two benefits under one plan; you get the opportunity to invest as well as insurance protection. Premium payments get split; one portion provides life insurance, and the other part is invested in various market-based funds. NRIs can invest across different instruments such as debt, equity, and balanced funds, while securing life cover. This helps NRIs participate in the long-term growth through India's emerging economy.
  • Annuity Schemes for NRIs

    : An annuity scheme is a contract between the insurance company and the policyholder. This helps you achieve financial objectives through periodic retirement income. Starting with small investments, NRIs can build a substantial retirement corpus over time. To invest in these schemes, an NRI needs to have a separate NRO account. These plans allow systematic wealth creation with the option to choose payouts monthly, quarterly, or annually.
  • National Pension Scheme (NPS) for NRIs

    : NPS is a retirement-specific savings plan; it aims to help NRIs generate market-linked returns to create a regular income stream in their post-retirement phase. Under this government-backed NRI pension scheme, NRIs are allowed to make a yearly contribution towards NPS Tier 1 accounts, which, on maturity, ensure guaranteed lifetime pensions for them.
  • Other government-sponsored and social security programs for NRIs

    : Other government-supported retirement options for NRIs are the Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) and Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY). 
  • EPF is a social security retirement benefit programme that enables an employee and the employer to contribute a portion of the salary. NRIs can contribute to EPF when employed in India. However, they can withdraw their EPF balance once they emigrate and the same may not be accessible once they move abroad.
  • Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY): This is a government backed pension scheme for senior citizens aged above 60 years. It provides regular steam of income through Annuity. While this scheme was primarily launched for Indian citizens, NRIs may be eligible if they meet certain conditions like returning to India for permanent settlement. 
  • Gift a Retirement plan to your parents

    : As an NRI, your parent’s wellbeing would be a top priority for you. However, with the distance, securing their financial security can often feel complex and challenging. What if you could gift a plan to your parents that offers regular income, guarantees their comfort and financial freedom?
  • Consider that you make a single payment, and in return, your parents receive a steady monthly income sufficient to meet their expenses for maintaining their lifestyle, managing medical expense, etc., so that they can live in comfort and peace. And in case of an unfortunate event that they pass away, you will receive the entire amount you paid.
  • For example: If you invest ₹1 Crore (or ~$113,600) in Tata AIA Saral Pension Plan, your parents will receive ₹52,080 monthly income for life, securing them the financial independence that they deserve, while also giving you the peace of mind that you've secured their future. 
  • In case of their unfortunate demise, you will receive the ₹1 Crore premium amount you initially paid, ensuring that your financial commitment is fully paid back. You can cover both your parents with such retirement plans
  • This approach not only safeguards your parents' financial independence but also ensures you are there for them, even from miles away. It’s a perfect way to show your gratitude and care while offering them lasting financial security and support. To know more about this offering, visit Tata AIA Saral Pension.

Why investing in India offers better returns compared to foreign countries?

Investing in India offers significant advantages over foreign countries, primarily due to higher interest rates and the country’s fast-growing economy. Here are some of the reasons why NRIs should invest in India. 
 

  • Better Interest Rates: India offers attractive returns on multiple investment plans like market linked ULIP plans, annuity plans, helping investors combat inflation.

  • Fast-Growing Economy: India's fast-growing economy, fueled by a young population and huge domestic market, offers plenty of investment opportunities.

  • Higher Yields: Indian debt and equity markets offer considerable better returns than many developed nations with lower interest rates.

  • Investor-Friendly Environment: India’s improving regulatory framework and ease of doing business make it a more accessible and attractive investment destination. 
NRI Investment plans

The following table highlights the features of retirement plan in India for NRIs:

Plan category

Risk level

Return structure

Tax advantages

Suited for

ULIPs

Moderate to High

Market-dependent, potentially substantial

Tax2 deduction under applicable sections up to ₹1.5 lakh and maturity proceeds may be exempt under prescribed conditions with death benefits being completely tax-free

NRIs pursuing growth + flexibility

Annuity Plans

Low

Fixed and guaranteed income, offering steady payouts throughout retirement

Section 80CCC: Contributions to certain annuity plans (like pension plans) are eligible for a tax deduction of up to ₹1.5 lakh in a financial year.   

 

Section 10(10D): The maturity proceeds of certain annuity plans, including the death benefits, are tax-free

NRIs seeking a steady, low-risk income stream in retirement

NPS

Moderate

Market-dependent with debt and equity combination

Tax2 deduction under applicable sections with overall ceiling of ₹1.5 lakh + additional ₹50,000 under specific provisions

NRIs seeking disciplined, long-term wealth building

Mahatma Gandhi Pravasi Suraksha Yojana (MGPSY)

Low

Modest, savings-oriented

Limited government advantages

Low-income NRIs pursuing social security

Features of NRI Retirement schemes

Retirement preparation consists of two stages:

  • The first is the accumulation phase, wherein the foundation is created, and NRIs start saving and investing actively.
  • The second, or distribution, phase is when they begin to use their retirement investments.

Key features of Retirement plans for NRIs include

  • Flexible contribution options:

    NRIs have flexibility in choosing between regular or single premium payments. They also have complete freedom in selecting policy durations. This facilitates their requirements to align with their overseas earnings pattern.

  • Receive regular income:

    Annuity plans provide a steady income post-retirement, offering financial stability. They provide fixed income which can be critical for managing daily expenses, healthcare costs, and other financial needs. me annuity plans include survivor benefits, where the annuity continues to be paid to the policyholder’s spouse or beneficiary after their death which provides extra layer of security to policyholders family. 

  • Investment-linked or guaranteed plans:

    Returns would vary depending upon the selected retirement plan. For example, if you choose ULIPs, the life insurance solutions with market-linked investment characteristics, the returns would depend on the performance of your investment in the market. Similarly, an annuity scheme guarantees income, as it is a non-linked financial product.

  • Diverse payout methods:

    How you take your retirement distributions depends on your type of pension and your goals for the future. The appropriate retirement plans provide options to choose from several payout alternatives. For instance, if you opt for a monthly payout from a deferred annuity, you receive a steady and fixed monthly income for a specified period. Alternatively, if you select a lump sum payout, you obtain a substantial portion of your pension fund at once and utilise it based on your preferences.

  • Worldwide accessibility:

    International accessibility is one of the key features of NRI retirement programmes. You may be living in any country, but you can access your retirement fund and modify your investment portfolio with ease. Be it contribution or redemption, the process remains easy. Here, the element of transparency comes into play, and you need to choose your retirement plan provider carefully.

  • Easy portability:

    Easy portability refers to the ability to maintain and handle an NRI retirement account. Retirement plans, such as NPS, allow for continued transferability across borders, provided the transfer is initiated through an NRO or an NRE account. This is one factor that many other financial products lack.

Factors to consider before investing in NRI Retirement plans in India

Following are the important factors to consider when investing in an NRI retirement plan in India:

Impact of exchange rate fluctuations

The investment value for an NRI retirement plan depends not just on the respective instrument's performance but also on currency value changes. If the resident country's currency value weakens against Indian currency, the returns decrease during repatriation.

Applicable tax regulations

Being well-informed about both Indian, your residence country's tax systems and Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAA) under applicable sections of the Income Tax Act helps you avoid double taxation. Generally, NRIs fall under the Indian taxation law, where liability is determined under applicable sections for residential status determination and scope of income, which applies Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) under relevant sections on investment income. Understanding NRI taxation is essential for effective financial planning.

Fund repatriation process

Repatriation can be quite complicated in some investment plans. It is therefore necessary to determine whether your chosen retirement plan offers easy repatriation. For instance, according to the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) regulation, NRIs can repatriate up to USD 1 million on the principal amount to their NRO account. The interest amount gets repatriated separately.

Policy lock-in duration

You can maintain a disciplined savings habit and help ensure uninterrupted fund growth by choosing the right lock-in period. Make sure the lock-in period of an NRI retirement plan matches your regular income before making an investment.

Investment risks & fund choices

Evaluating your risk tolerance helps in selecting the right retirement plan. As an NRI, you may prefer a balance between secure income and high growth potential. To identify a suitable plan, you need to conduct thorough research and compare various plans before investing.

Compliance and required documentation

It's essential that NRIs comply with FEMA, IRDAI, SEBI, and RBI regulations. Proper documentation, with updated KYC, bank statements, address and identity verification, is mandatory. These ensure smooth withdrawals and investments.

Benefits of NRI Retirement programs

NRI retirement programmes offer many benefits, some of which are as follows:

  • Financial stability for the future

    :
     Compared to many other nations, India's retirement programmes offer NRIs a more stable regulatory environment, which contributes to securing financial stability. NRI retirement plans in India are advantageous because they guarantee lifetime income or provide greater returns from a diversified portfolio with lower risks.
  • Long-term wealth creation

    : Building a retirement fund is a top priority for NRIs who intend to spend their retirement in India to avoid financial difficulties upon their return. NRIs have the opportunity to gradually accumulate wealth in India through a variety of long-term investment options.
  • Steady income after retirement

    : Guaranteed return plans, like life insurance products and deferred annuities, allow NRIs to maintain a steady income after retirement. Thus, covering lifestyle or daily expenses, utility bills, and medical emergencies using this income makes the golden years completely peaceful and stress-free.
  • Tax-saving advantages

    : As per Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961, an NRI is eligible for a tax2 deduction of up to ₹1.5 lakh annually for NPS Tier 1 investment. An additional ₹50,000 under Section 80CCD(1B) adds up to an aggregate benefit of ₹2 lakh. Besides all these savings, NRI retirement products also enable goal-based planning. They allow NRIs to build a regular post-retirement income, secure their children's future, and lead a comfortable lifestyle with an adequate emergency fund after retirement.

Features of NRI Retirement schemes

Retirement preparation consists of two stages:

  • The first is the accumulation phase, wherein the foundation is created, and NRIs start saving and investing actively.
  • The second, or distribution, phase is when they begin to use their retirement investments.

Eligibility criteria for NRI Retirement plans

The eligibility requirements for investing in an NRI retirement plan are:

  • The applicant must be between 18 and 60 years of age
  • A valid PAN card is a mandatory requirement. Without a PAN card, the applicant must submit a declaration in company format stating they are not a tax resident of India.
  • FATCA Declaration is necessary for reporting foreign financial assets and accounts, according to compliance regulations for NRIs
  • The applicant must not have stayed in India for more than 182 days in the previous year
  • The NRI must not have stayed in India for 365 days or more during the past 4 years before the previous year

How to apply for NRI Retirement plans?

Before purchasing the retirement plan, it is important to understand the NRI investment process. You must be aware of all the steps involved in the application process. Here’s how to apply for NRI retirement plans. 

  • Step 1: Obtain your PAN card

    A PAN card is mandatory to make any kind of investments or financial transactions in India. You will need it to buy NRI retirement plans too. Apply for your PAN card by submitting the application and required documents. It is generally issued within a few weeks' time.
  • Step 2: Open an NRO or NRE bank account

    Reach out to a trusted Indian bank and open a non-resident ordinary (NRO) or non-resident external (NRE) bank account. This account allows NRIs to make various kinds of financial transactions in India.
  • Step 3: Complete KYC and other documentation

    Complying with the Know Your Customer (KYC) norms is mandatory in India. Provide your insurer with the required information and supporting documents, like your passport, visa, residence permit, etc., to complete the verification process.
  • Step 4: Select the insurer and plan

    Now, choose a reliable insurance company and a suitable retirement plan that suits your needs. Check if the plan can help you cover all the expenses and other requirements you want to fulfil in your post-working years.
  • Step 5: Fill the proposal form and complete the purchase

    Upon finalising your desired plan, obtain the application form from the insurer and fill it out. Provide all the essential details required to facilitate the purchase. Finally, cross-check and submit it along with the due payment.

    While applying for your retirement plan, ensure you consider the Indian tax laws as well as your country of residence and adhere to all the rules and regulations. Reliable insurers like Tata AIA often help navigate the entire process by sharing all the relevant information NRIs must be aware of. Various options for NRI retirement plans are available alongside an easy application. 

Tax benefits for NRIs on Retirement plans

The tax2 benefits for NRIs that they can enjoy with retirement plans in India as per the following provision of the Income Tax Act are as follows. 

 
  • Under Section 80C, non-resident Indians (NRIs) are eligible to get a deduction of up to ₹1.5 lakh annually from their NPS Tier 1 contributions.
  • When claiming tax2 deductions on their Indian income from the National Pension Scheme (NPS) or the Atal Pension Yojana (APY), NRIs are permitted to save up to ₹1.5 Lakh under Section 80CCD(1).
  • Under Section 80CCD (1B), pension fund contributions are eligible for additional tax2 deductions of up to ₹50,000, for a total deduction of up to ₹2 lakh (including deduction under Section 80C).
  • Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement or DTAA for NRIs allows one to avoid double taxation under Section 90 & 91 if there is an agreement with the country where an NRI is a tax-paying resident.
  • With NPS, NRIs can withdraw 60% of the maturity amount tax-free2 and can invest the remaining 40% in an annuity plan.

How to buy a Retirement plan in India as an NRI?

Follow the steps mentioned below to buy NRI retirement plans in India.

  • Step 1

    :
     First, compare the various plans available in India with different insurers. Before you apply for a pension plan in India, properly go through the benefits and terms of each policy and select a suitable one for you.
  • Step 2

    : Now, get the proposal form from the insurance company and fill it out with all the information that is needed, including your name, address, gender, date of birth, phone number, email address, and current yearly income.
  • Step 3

    : Clearly state if you wish to pay regular premiums or invest a lump sum.
  • Step 4

    : The insurer will give you information about the qualified retirement plans based on your selection.
  • Step 5

    : Next, choose the payout option that you want.
  • Step 6

    : You can determine the required premium amount after choosing the retirement plan. You can check the premium for this by using an online calculator.
  • Step 7

    : Upload all the necessary documents, such as passport, visa or residential permit, and NRE or NRO bank account details as requested by your insurer. Ensure you adhere to all the Indian regulations of the NRI investment process.
  • Step 8

    : Finally, make the due payments to activate the policy.

 

Once you complete the due payment, you will receive the purchase details and the policy document. Monitor your retirement plan regularly and reach out to the insurers whenever you want to modify the policy to suit your evolving needs.


FAQs on NRI Retirement plans

  • Why should NRIs invest in retirement plans available in India?

    Retirement plans available in India offer enough potential to generate substantial wealth for securing one’s future. NRIs can invest in them to ensure their family’s financial security.

  • What are the eligibility criteria for purchasing NRI Retirement plans?

    Individuals between 18 and 60 years, residing outside India for at least 182 days in the previous year or 365 or more in the last four years preceding the previous year, can buy an NRI retirement plan. A valid PAN or declaration of non-tax residency is also required.

  • What are the documents one must submit to buy an NRI Retirement plan?

    You need to submit PAN card or a declaration in company format as proof of a non-tax resident of India and address proof, along with a passport-size photograph, to purchase NRI retirement plans in India.

  • How do I choose the best NRI Retirement plan for my needs?

    To select the best NRI retirement plan, consider your financial needs, retirement goals, and current financial situation. Decide based on whether you require a lump sum upon your death or income support for some time or throughout your life. 

  • Are there any tax benefits for NRIs investing in Retirement plans in India?

    The Section 80C of the Income Tax Act provides tax2 deductions of up to Rs. 150000 and tax exemption under Section 10 (10D) on payouts received upon policy maturity.

  • Can NRIs invest in Indian Retirement or Pension plans?

    Yes, NRIs meeting the due eligibility criteria can invest in Indian retirement or pension plans in accordance with the guidelines prescribed in the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999.

  • Disclaimer

    • The linked insurance product do not offer any liquidity during the first five years of the contract. The policy holder will not be able to surrender/withdraw the monies invested in linked insurance products completely or partially till the end of the fifth year.
    • The complete name of Tata AIA Saral Pension is Tata AIA Life Insurance Saral Pension (UIN: 110N159V10) - A Single Premium, Non-Linked, Non-Participating, Individual, Immediate Annuity Plan
    • Tata AIA Smart Pension Secure (UIN: 110L182V05) - Non-Participating, Unit Linked, Individual Life Insurance Pension Plan
    • The complete name of Tata AIA Fortune Guarantee Pension Plan is Tata AIA Life Insurance Fortune Guarantee Pension Plan (UIN:110N161V12) - A Non-Linked Non-Participating Individual Life Insurance Plan
    • 1Son gifts Annuity Plan at ₹1 Cr | Option name: Joint Life annuity with Return of Premium | Primary Annuitant: Male, 65 Years | Joint Annuitant: Female, 60 Years | Annuity Rate: 6.25% | Premium: ₹50 Lacs | Policy Payment Term: Single Pay | USD Rate: 88.77 | Parents receive ₹52,080 Annuity per month | RIP: Age 80 | Son receives ₹1 Cr Return of Premium | Parents (Ages 65, 60) receive ₹52,080 monthly annuity for 15 years | After RIP (Age 80), the son receives ₹1 Cr return of premium for 10 years.
    • 2No Goods and Service Tax shall be applicable on Individual life insurance products as per prevailing laws. Tax laws are subject to amendments from time to time. If any imposition (tax or otherwise) is levied by any statutory or administrative body under the Policy, Tata AIA Life Insurance Company Limited reserves the right to claim the same from the Policyholder. Income Tax benefits would be available as per the prevailing income tax laws, subject to fulfillment of conditions stipulated therein. The Tax-Free income is subject to conditions specified under section 10(10D) and other applicable provisions of the Income Tax Act,1961. Tata AIA Life Insurance Company Ltd. does not assume responsibility on tax implications mentioned anywhere on this site. Please consult your own tax consultant to know the tax benefits available to you.
    • 3The word Guaranteed, and Guarantee means the annuity payout is fixed at inception of the policy and will be payable for whole of life or till death of the Annuitant(s).
    • 4All funds open for new business which have completed 5 years since inception are rated 4 or 5 Star by Morningstar as of August 2025.
    • 5Partial withdrawals only available 3 times during the entire policy term and only for reasons specified in IRDA Regulations as amended from time to time
    • For ULIP plans
    • Unit Linked Life Insurance products are different from traditional insurance products and are subject to risk factors. The premium paid in Unit Linked Life Insurance policies are subject to investment risks associated with capital markets and the NAVs of the units may go up or down based on the performance of fund and factors influencing the capital market and the insured is responsible for his/her decisions. The various funds offered under this contract are the names of the funds and do not in any way indicate the quality of these plans, their future prospects and returns. The underlying Fund’s NAV will be affected by interest rates and the performance of the underlying stocks. The fund is managed by Tata AIA Life Insurance Company Ltd. (hereinafter the Company"). The performance of the managed portfolios and funds is not guaranteed, and the value may increase or decrease in accordance with the future experience of the managed portfolios and funds. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. Returns are calculated on an absolute basis for a period of less than (or equal to) a year, with reinvestment of dividends (if any). All investments made by the Company are subject to market risks. The Company does not guarantee any assured returns. The investment income and price may go down as well as up depending on several factors influencing the market. Please know the associated risks and the applicable charges, from your insurance agent or the Intermediary or policy document issued by the insurance company.
    • Tax laws are subject to amendments from time to time. Income Tax benefits would be available as per the prevailing income tax laws, subject to fulfilment of conditions stipulated therein. Tata AIA Life Insurance Company Ltd. does not assume responsibility on tax implications mentioned anywhere on this site. Please consult your own tax consultant to know the tax benefits available to you.
    • The products are underwritten by Tata AIA Life Insurance Company Limited. The plans are not guaranteed issuance plans, and it will be subject to Company's underwriting and acceptance. Whilst every care has been taken in the preparation of this content, it is subject to correction and markets may not perform in a similar fashion based on factors influencing the capital and debt markets; hence this advertisement does not individually confer any legal rights or duties. This is not an investment advice, please make your own independent decision after consulting your financial or other professional advisor.
    • The fund is managed by Tata AIA Life Insurance Company Ltd. (hereinafter the Company).
    • Tata AIA Life Insurance Company Limited is only the name of the Insurance Company & Tata AIA Smart Pension Secure are only the names of the Unit Linked Life Insurance contract and does not in any way indicate the quality of the contract, its future prospects or returns. This is not an investment advice, please make your own independent decision after consulting your financial or other professional advisor.
    • Buying a Life Insurance policy is a long-term commitment. An early termination of the policy usually involves high costs, and the Surrender Value payable may be less than the all the Premiums Paid.
    • Insurance cover is available under the product. For more details on risk factors, terms and conditions please read sales brochure carefully before concluding a sale.
    • The products are underwritten by Tata AIA Life Insurance Company Limited.
    • The plans are not guaranteed issuance plans, and it will be subject to Company's underwriting and acceptance.
    • L&C/Advt/2025/Nov/4096