GIFT City is India's international financial hub — purpose-built for NRIs and global investors to invest in Indian and global markets with full regulatory clarity, in US dollars, without the usual complications.
GIFT City stands for Gujarat International Finance Tec-City — India's first International Financial Services Centre (IFSC), located in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Think of it as India's answer to global financial hubs like Singapore or Dubai, but right here in India.
From a regulatory standpoint, GIFT City is treated as a separate financial zone. All transactions here happen in foreign currencies (primarily US dollars), and the rules are designed to match global standards — making it easy and familiar for NRIs and international investors.
It is governed by a single regulator called IFSCA (International Financial Services Centres Authority) — so you don't have to navigate the usual maze of SEBI, RBI, and FEMA regulations separately. One regulator, one framework, full clarity.
Transactions in foreign currency. Treated as a foreign territory for FEMA and tax purposes — so your USD stays in USD.
One authority oversees all activities: funds, banking, insurance, and capital markets. Simpler compliance for everyone.
Access India's fast-growing economy without NRE/NRO accounts, TDS complications, or repatriation delays.
Foreign capital can flow into India (Inbound), and Indian capital can flow into global markets (Outbound) — all from the same regulated hub.
Depending on who you are and where your money is, GIFT City offers two distinct paths. Here's how to tell which one applies to you.
Certain GIFT City funds — particularly Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) — are open only to Accredited Investors. Here's what that means and whether you qualify.
You have earned above a defined income threshold in the last financial year, and expect the same level this year.
Your total net assets cross a defined threshold — with a significant portion in financial assets such as stocks, mutual funds, or bank deposits.
Banks, insurance companies, AMCs, pension funds, registered family offices, and corporates with adequate capital can qualify as institutional accredited investors.
Good news for US-based NRIs: If you already qualify as an SEC Accredited Investor in the United States (net worth over $1 million excluding your primary home, or annual income above $200,000 individually / $300,000 with your spouse), you are likely eligible for accredited investor funds at GIFT City as well. Our team can help you confirm your eligibility quickly.
Several leading Indian fund houses have set up IFSCA-registered entities at GIFT City. Here are some of the key funds available for NRIs and global investors today.
USD-denominated fund investing in India's leading large-cap companies. Ideal for NRIs who want stable, long-term participation in India's growth story — in dollars.
A hedge fund-style strategy that takes both long and short positions in Indian markets. Designed to generate positive returns across different market cycles.
Diversified exposure across large, mid, and small-cap Indian companies. Captures a broad slice of India's economy — from established leaders to emerging businesses.
The most accessible GIFT City inbound option — open to NRIs and global investors with a very low entry threshold. Actively allocates across Indian market caps.
Invest in 30–50 of the world's strongest large-cap companies across the US, Europe, Japan, South Korea, and Hong Kong — through a single USD-denominated fund.
Funds targeting emerging global themes — AI, semiconductors, biotech, and clean energy — across the US, Europe, and Asia Pacific. Built for macro-driven, long-term investors.
Fund availability, minimums, and terms are subject to change. Please contact us for the latest fund details and suitability assessment.
GIFT City was designed with one goal in mind — making cross-border investing in India simple, transparent, and tax-efficient. Here's what it means for you.
No forced rupee conversion. Wire USD from your US bank account directly — your investment stays in dollars from start to finish.
Unlike direct Indian mutual funds, GIFT City requires no special Indian bank account. Your existing overseas account is sufficient.
No tax is deducted at source when you redeem. You receive your full proceeds and declare income per your country's tax rules.
GIFT City funds enjoy capital gains tax exemption in India. Tax is applicable only in your country of residence — in line with the applicable DTAA.
You can move your money back anytime without RBI approval or FEMA restrictions — unlike the NRO account route, which has limits.
For US-based NRIs, PFIC classification is a critical concern. GIFT City fund structures are being designed with US tax compliance in mind.
One regulator (IFSCA) instead of the usual tangle of SEBI, RBI, and FEMA — making ongoing compliance straightforward and transparent.
Participate in India's multi-decade economic story — now the world's 4th largest economy — without geography being a barrier.
The entire process is digital and can be completed from anywhere in the world. Here's how it works.
Connect with our team at Manavi Wealth. We understand your investment goals, risk profile, and US tax situation to recommend the right GIFT City fund for you.
Complete IFSCA-compliant KYC digitally. You'll need your passport, overseas address proof, and PAN (or Form 60). Typically completed within 1–3 business days.
Choose from IFSCA-registered fund schemes based on your goals — India equity, debt, hybrid, or global funds. We help you review the fund's SID and KIM before investing.
Wire USD from your US bank to the fund's GIFT City USD account using a standard SWIFT transfer. No Indian bank account involved. Typically settles in 1–2 business days.
Units are allotted at the applicable NAV on T+1 to T+3. You receive a confirmation and can track your portfolio online. SIP and SWP options are available.
Request redemption anytime online. USD proceeds are credited to your overseas bank via SWIFT — zero TDS deducted at source. Settlement in T+3 to T+5.
Our advisors at Manavi Wealth are here to guide you through the entire GIFT City investment journey — from eligibility to execution.
This page is intended solely for educational and awareness purposes and does not constitute investment advice, a solicitation, or an offer to buy or sell any securities. Mutual fund and other investments are subject to market risks. Please read all scheme-related documents carefully before investing. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Tax treatment is subject to change and depends on individual circumstances and applicable laws in your country of residence. US-based NRI investors should consult a US-qualified tax advisor regarding PFIC implications and FBAR/FATCA reporting obligations before investing. Manavi Wealth Pvt Ltd is an AMFI Registered Mutual Fund Distributor (ARN-106294), SIF Distributor (SIFD), and APMI Registered PMS Distributor (APRN-00260). We are a distributor, not a SEBI Registered Investment Adviser (RIA).