For Indians and NRIs living in the United States, access to Indian banks abroad brings familiarity, trust, and convenience. Whether it is managing NRE/NRO accounts, handling property transactions in India, or transferring funds, Indian banks with a presence in the US play a crucial role in cross-border financial life.
This guide covers major Indian banks that operate in the United States, the services they offer, and how NRIs can benefit from them.
Why Indian Banks Matter for NRIs in the US
Indian banks abroad help NRIs:
- Open and manage NRE, NRO, and FCNR accounts
- Transfer money between India and the US
- Handle property sale proceeds and repatriation
- Complete KYC, documentation, and compliance requirements
- Get assistance aligned with Indian banking and FEMA rules
While many services are now digital, physical branches in the US add an extra layer of trust and support
Indian Banks with Branches in the United States
State Bank of India (SBI)
State Bank of India is the largest Indian public-sector bank with a strong overseas presence. In the US, SBI operates through SBI California and SBI New York.
Key services include NRE/NRO account support, remittances, trade finance, and corporate banking. Many NRIs prefer SBI due to its direct integration with India-based branches
ICICI Bank USA
ICICI Bank has a significant footprint in the US through ICICI Bank USA. It is especially popular among NRIs for digital-first banking and smooth remittance services.
NRIs commonly use ICICI for NRE/NRO accounts, home loans in India, and online fund transfers.
Bank of Baroda
Bank of Baroda operates in the US primarily through its New York branch. It serves both retail and corporate customers.
The bank supports NRI banking services, trade finance, and cross-border transactions linked to India.
Punjab National Bank (PNB)
Punjab National Bank has a presence in the US through its representative offices.
PNB is often used by NRIs who already have long-standing banking relationships in India and require assistance with account maintenance and documentation
HDFC Bank (Representative Offices)
While HDFC Bank does not operate full-service branches in the US, it maintains representative offices.
These offices help NRIs with account opening guidance, loans in India, and coordination with Indian branches.
Types of Services Offered by Indian Banks in the US
Most Indian banks in the US provide:
- NRI account assistance (NRE/NRO/FCNR)
- Remittance and wire transfer services
- Property-related transaction support
- Documentation and compliance guidance
- Trade finance and corporate banking (in select branches)
It is important to note that not all branches offer retail walk-in services. Some focus mainly on corporate or representative functions.
Do NRIs Need to Visit a Branch?
n most cases, NRIs can open and manage accounts digitally or through courier-based documentation. However, visiting a branch may be helpful for:
- Complex property repatriation cases
- Large fund transfers
- Account regularization issues
- Power of attorney and KYC verification
Choosing the Right Bank
When selecting an Indian bank in the US, NRIs should consider
- Existing relationship with the bank in India
- Ease of digital banking
- Speed and cost of remittances
- Support for property and tax-related transactions
Conclusion
ndian banks with branches in the US provide NRIs with a reliable bridge between their financial lives in America and India. While digital banking has reduced dependency on physical branches, the presence of Indian banks abroad continues to offer reassurance, regulatory alignment, and personalized support.
For NRIs managing property, taxes, or large financial transactions in India, choosing the right banking partner is a critical decision.
