Both domestic and foreign-based Indians recognise the importance of purchasing term insurance. Thankfully, the Foreign Exchange Management Act has made it feasible for Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) to purchase life insurance in India.
If you are an NRI seeking monthly income or affordable savings plans, you might have a few concerns while considering enrolling in these plans abroad.
In India, are life insurance policies available to NRIs?
Yes, individuals living overseas who are NRIs and PIOs (as defined by FEMA) are permitted to buy life insurance in India. No matter their level of Indian citizenship, anyone of Indian descent can get such a policy in their home nation to protect themselves and their families.
Does the NRI have to be physically present in India to purchase the policy?
It is not required for NRIs purchasing life insurance to be physically present in India. It is preferable to purchase the plan after weighing all of your possibilities. Being present in India when purchasing the plan is not necessary but might be quite advantageous. If you acquire the policy from outside India, you must complete all medical exams and deliver the results to the business there.
Will their nation of residence impact the NRI’s premium amount?
The premiums for the same insurance policy are often the same for residents and non-residents. However, premiums might be greater if the NRI lives in a nation with higher life risks. NRIs are also eligible to claim term insurance tax benefits. A country might be categorised as high-risk if it is prone to civil or military issues, has unstable leadership, and is frequently attacked violently. In the same way, peacefulness, stable governments, and solid conditions for law and order define low-risk nations. An NRI who resides in a nation with a high risk of disaster will pay a higher premium.
What exactly are the guidelines for death benefits?
Anywhere in the world is covered by the life insurance policy for NRIs offered by Indian insurance providers. According to the paperwork, the corporation will either repay the life insurance premium payment in rupees or another currency, depending on the insurance plan. The nominee must provide all the records outlined in the policy to file claim.
If the policyholder pays the entire premium in Indian rupees through an NRO account, the proceeds will not be transferrable. However, if the policy is purchased prior to becoming an NRI, the proceeds that are still transferrable are equal to the portion of the premium that was paid in foreign currency.
Why do NRIs purchase term insurance in India? Let’s examine this.
- To take advantage of low premiums
Depending on where the person may be residing, term insurance premiums in India tend to be less expensive than those in other countries. NRIs must pay a greater premium outside of India for the same coverage as they would in India.
2. To pay off debt
A term plan aids in debt repayment in the absence of NRIs who have taken out loans in India. Mortgage redemption plans, which are loan-related decreasing-term programmes, are an option open to NRIs. The term plan might assist in paying off the remaining loan sum in the event of an early demise.
3. Due of the simple procedure
In India, purchasing a term plan is an easy process. NRIs can easily purchase the policy online. As an alternative, people could purchase the policy while travelling to India. In general, the fees for the medical tests performed outside of India may have to be incurred by the individual, depending on the terms and circumstances set forth by the insurer. An online term insurance calculator assists NRIs in determining the projected coverage needed to adequately protect their families finances.
4. Inherent tax advantages
Subject to meeting the criteria and circumstances outlined therein, NRIs are eligible for term insurance tax benefits on premiums paid under Section 80C and on the maturity amount as per Section 10(10D) of the Income Tax Act, 1961. As a result, NRIs who have taxable income in India might lessen their tax obligations while still getting insurance. The tax benefit is subject to change in tax laws.
The tax benefits mentioned in the article may not apply if you opt for the new tax regime since many tax exemptions and deductions have been scrapped within the new regime.
Consider allocating your funds in a term plan if you are an NRI. Calculate the appropriate level of coverage with the term insurance calculator. You can choose coverage to look after your family even if you aren’t there.
Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.
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