term-insurance-for-nri

Term Insurance for NRIs

A simple guide to term insurance plans designed for NRIs. Get coverage, flexibility, and peace of mind today.

A simple guide to term insurance plans designed for NRIs. Get coverage, flexibility, and peace of mind today.

Term insurance remains one of the most affordable and effective ways to protect your loved ones, regardless of where you live. With increasing flexibility, digital access, and plans designed specifically for NRIs, now is the perfect time to explore how term insurance can offer you not just financial security but true peace of mind.

Let’s find out more about it.

Key Takeaways

  1. NRIs can purchase term insurance in India while residing abroad

  2. Term plans for NRIs offer global coverage with payouts in INR

  3. Premiums can be paid in INR or foreign currency, depending on the insurer

  4. Insurance is available for NRIs aged 18 to 60 years

  5. Online application and digital KYC make the process hassle-free

What is Term Insurance for NRIs?

Term insurance for NRIs is a type of life insurance policy specifically designed for Non-Resident Indians. It provides financial support to their beneficiaries in the event of the policyholder's untimely demise during the policy term. It works much like term insurance for residents in India but is tailored to accommodate the needs, circumstances, and legal status of those living abroad.

Calculate Term Insurance Premium

A term insurance calculator is a useful online tool that helps you determine how much coverage you need based on your income, lifestyle, and family’s needs.

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My Income
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My current Cover
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Additional Details
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Our Recommendation
My Income
My current Cover
Additional Details
Our Recommendation
Total Life Cover Recommended
50 Lakh
12.5 Lakh
75 Lakh
Zero
1 Crore
Where do you stand
Additional Life Cover
Hi {name}
To secure your family’s financial future and protect their dreams,
you’ll need an additional cover of
rs 10,000
Note: This is a very brief calculation of HLV
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Desclaimer-

The above calculation and illustration of figures are indicative only and not on actual basis.

What is the Requirement of NRI Term Insurance?

For NRIs, life often moves between two worlds. The one they live in and the one they call home. While income might come from overseas, responsibilities like dependent parents or property loans remain domestic. In such cases, having term life insurance for NRIs in India can do wonders in the following ways:

  • Financial Security for Indian Dependents: Having a term plan in India ensures that those dependent on you are still taken care of without disruptions. The annual tax exemption benefits on the policy premiums can provide additional financial support.
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Did You Know?

Under the new tax regime, Section 115 BAC, income up to ₹3,00,000 is tax-free for NRIs.
 

Source: Incometax

Young Term Plan - 1.5 Crore
  • Asset Protection: You may have a home loan, business loan, or other financial liabilities in India. Term insurance acts as a shield, preventing your assets from being liquidated to pay off debts.
  • Peace of Mind Across Borders: Living away from home comes with added stress. Knowing that your family is financially protected back in India allows you to focus on your life abroad without constant worry.

Key Benefits of Term Insurance for NRIs

Term insurance plans for NRIs are structured to accommodate the unique financial realities of non-residents. Take Rakesh, for example, an NRI software engineer based in Singapore. While he earns in SGD, his parents continue to live in India. 

To secure their future, he is purchasing NRI term insurance in India. Now, his parents thought it was not worth it until Rakesh explained how his decision was driven by the following benefits such a policy offers:

One of the first things that appealed to Rakesh was the cost. Since term insurance premiums can be paid in Indian Rupees, they are a more affordable option when converted from a stronger currency like the Singapore Dollar.

This affordability doesn't compromise the cover. It simply reflects the cost advantage of India’s insurance market. For NRIs earning in stronger currencies like USD, GBP, or AED, this makes Indian term insurance plans extremely cost-effective.

Rakesh travels frequently for work, sometimes to Singapore, Europe, or even Australia. A major advantage of his Indian term insurance policy is that the life cover extends globally. This means that no matter where he is in the world, the protection remains intact.

This is particularly valuable for professionals whose career paths span multiple countries or those considering an eventual return to India. The policy stays relevant and active regardless of geographical shifts.

Despite living abroad, Rakesh still has rental income and fixed deposits in India, making him liable to pay taxes under Indian law. Since he files income tax, he’s also able to avail of tax deductions under Section 80C for the premiums he pays. This way, his family would receive the claim amount tax-free under Section 10(10D).

This dual benefit, income security for his parents and tax savings for himself, reinforces the value of keeping an Indian term policy.

Features of Term Insurance for NRIs

Term insurance for NRIs is designed with built-in flexibility to suit international lifestyles and Indian responsibilities.

FeatureDescription
Availability of Add-On RidersOptions like critical illness, accidental death, waiver of premium, etc
Worldwide CoverageLife cover remains active even if you relocate abroad
Nominee FlexibilityYou can nominate a beneficiary residing in India or overseas
Flexible Policy TermsChoose a term that suits your financial responsibilities
Tax BenefitsEligible under Sections 80C and 10(10D) of the Indian Income Tax Act
Medical ExaminationsRequired based on age, health, and insurer’s underwriting norms
Online Policy ManagementManage policy documents and renewals digitally via app or portal
High Sum Assured at Low PremiumsOffers large cover amounts at affordable rates compared to other insurance types
Flexible Premium Payment OptionsMultiple frequencies and modes to suit your budget and cash flow
Multiple Payout OptionsChoose between lump sum, monthly instalments, or a mix based on the nominee's needs

Documents Required to Buy Term Insurance for NRIs

Getting a term insurance policy as an NRI is simple and requires basic documentation.

  • Identity and Residence Proof: You’ll need documents such as a valid passport, a visa copy, and recent photographs.
  • Income Proof: Salary slips, bank statements (India or abroad), or income tax returns help determine eligibility and premiums.
  • Medical Reports: Most insurers request medical tests. These can be done in India or at approved international clinics.
  • Proposal Form and Declaration: A digitally signed application form and an NRI declaration form complete the process.

Eligibility Criteria for NRIs to Buy Term Insurance

Not every NRI needs to meet the same criteria. However, the basic conditions that remain standard across most insurers are:

  1. Age Range: Most term insurance plans are available to NRIs aged between 18 and 60 years.

  2. Country of Residence: The applicant must reside in a country approved by the insurer (usually excluding conflict zones or sanction-listed countries).

  3. Medical Underwriting: Health condition has a major role to play in the approval process. Full disclosures and recent reports are mandatory.

How Does Term Insurance for NRIs Work?

Understanding how the process works can simplify decision-making and ensure smoother onboarding. So, when you begin the chase for a suitable term life insurance for NRIs in India, here are the steps to be followed:

  • Choose Your Sum Assured and Term: Start by figuring out how much financial protection your loved ones would realistically need if something were to happen to you. Think long-term, including periodic expenses, big milestones like education or weddings, and any loans that need clearing. Then, choose a term that ensures this cover lasts through your major responsibilities.
  • Apply Online or via an Indian Representative: You don’t have to be in India to apply. At Canara HSBC Life Insurance, we provide a seamless digital application journey. If you're more comfortable with a human touch, authorised Indian representatives can walk you through every step.
  • Submit Documents: You’ll be required to upload documents that prove your identity, address, and income. These typically include your passport, PAN card, bank statements, and income proof. The proposal form captures important personal and financial details, so fill it with care.
  • Medical Test and Underwriting: Depending on your age, medical history, and coverage amount, you might need to undergo a medical examination. Nevertheless, here’s the good news. We offer telemedical check-ups, so you can get assessed from the comfort of your home, often over a simple video call.
  • Policy Issuance and Digital Copy: After your application clears underwriting, the policy is officially issued, often without delay. A digital copy is shared with you, and you can access and manage the policy anytime using a customer portal or mobile app, whether you're in Toronto or Tokyo.

How to Choose the Best Term Insurance for NRIs?

The Indian insurance market has grown over the years, and so has the number of plans it offers. While the essence of term plans remains the same, the features differ for what each insurance company offers. Hence, with so many plans available, the following checklist can help you find the best NRI term plan:

Reputation of the Insurer

Check for high claim settlement ratios, strong market presence, and positive reviews

Digital Experience

Since you're applying from abroad, ensure the insurer has a smooth digital platform for policy purchase, management, and claims

Flexibility of Add-ons

Look for critical illness cover, accidental death benefit, and income payout options. These enhance the basic term plan

Currency and Payment Flexibility

The ability to pay in INR or foreign currency can simplify premium payments and reduce conversion charges

Why Choose Us for an NRI Term Insurance Plan?

At Canara HSBC Life Insurance, we have garnered the trust of a lot of people when it comes to offering insurance. For NRIs, our official website is the most reliable gateway to explore plans, manage policies, and access secure, credible solutions, all in one place. 

Apart from that, the following points are where our strength lies in offering term life insurance plans:

  • Personalised Plans for NRIs: We understand the dual nature of your life. Our term plans can be tailored based on your dependents, location, and financial goals.
  • Digital Convenience: From proposal form submission to claim tracking, everything is online. You can even consult an insurance expert over a video call.
  • Excellent Claim Support: Our 99.43% claim settlement ratio speaks for our commitment. Plus, your nominee can file a claim from anywhere in the world.
  • Tax Efficiency: If you still earn in India or file returns here, our policies help you maximise savings under relevant tax sections.

Conclusion

Choosing the right term insurance as an NRI means more than just ticking off a financial checkbox. It reflects a commitment to those you care about, no matter the miles in between. A term plan ensures that no matter where life takes you, your family remains protected and your responsibilities are honoured. With trusted providers like us, you get the coverage, convenience, and credibility you deserve.

Glossary

  1. Telemedical: A remote health evaluation process via call or video to assess the applicant’s health status
  2. Sum Assured: The guaranteed amount paid to the nominee if the policyholder passes away during the term of the insurance plan
  3. NRI Declaration: A formal statement confirming an individual’s non-resident status for tax or investment purposes
  4. Income Payout Options: The different ways an insurer disburses maturity or annuity proceeds, such as lump sum, regular instalments, or a mix of both
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Uncertain About Insurance

FAQs

Yes, NRIs can buy term insurance plans in India. They must provide necessary documents such as a passport, a visa, and proof of income.

NRIs can usually pay in Indian Rupees (INR) or foreign currency, depending on the insurer’s payment flexibility and country regulations.

The term insurance remains valid even if you return to India permanently. You can add your updated address and payment details without affecting coverage or benefits.

The death benefit is paid to the nominee, who can reside anywhere. The payout is in INR unless stated otherwise in the policy.

Yes, if the NRI has taxable income in India, deductions can be claimed under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act.

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