Investing in US stocks has become one of the most attractive opportunities for Indian investors in recent years. Global giants like Apple, Google, Tesla, Amazon, Microsoft, Meta and thousands of other international companies are listed on US stock exchanges. With rapid technology growth and dollar appreciation, many Indians now look toward the US market to diversify and grow their wealth.
If you’re wondering how to invest in US stocks from India, this detailed guide will walk you through everything — methods, requirements, charges, taxation, pros & cons, and best platforms to get started safely.
Why Should Indians Invest in US Stocks?
Before learning how, it’s important to know why investing in US markets can be beneficial.
1. Global Diversification
Relying only on Indian stocks keeps your portfolio limited to one economy. US stocks allow you to balance risks and gain exposure to global businesses.
2. Invest in World-Leading Companies
Most trillion-dollar corporations are American. As these companies grow, investors benefit through price appreciation and dividends.
3. Dollar Appreciation Advantage
Historically, the USD has strengthened against INR. Even if stocks remain stable, currency appreciation can increase your returns.
4. Access to Innovative Sectors
AI, Electric Vehicles, Cloud computing, Gaming, Space tech — most innovation happens in the US first. Early investment can bring high rewards.
5. Better Long-Term Wealth Building
US stock market (S&P 500) has shown strong long-term growth. Investing regularly can build impressive wealth over time.
Can Indians Legally Invest in US Stocks?
Yes. Under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) of RBI, Indians can invest up to $250,000 (approx. ₹2 crore) per year in foreign assets including US stocks legally.
Ways to Invest in US Stocks from India
There are two main methods:
1. Direct Investment in US Stocks
You buy shares listed on Nasdaq or NYSE through international brokerage platforms.
Steps to follow:
1. Create an account on a US brokerage platform
2. Complete KYC (PAN, Aadhar, bank details)
3. Transfer funds in USD
4. Buy individual stocks or ETFs as per your preference
Popular US stock broking platforms for Indians:
- Vested
- INDmoney
- Groww (US stocks section)
- Upstox (global investing)
- Interactive Brokers
- Charles Schwab
These platforms provide fractional shares, meaning you can buy even $10 worth of Tesla or Apple stock, which makes investing easy for beginners.
2. Indirect Investment via Indian Brokers/ETFs
If you don’t want to deal with currency conversion or funding accounts, you can invest indirectly.
Options include:
- US-focused Mutual Funds
- US Index Funds (S&P 500, Nasdaq 100)
- ETFs tracking US markets
Examples:
- Motilal Oswal Nasdaq 100 ETF
- Mirae Asset NYSE FANG+ ETF
- ICICI Prudential US Bluechip Equity Fund
These funds are simpler because you invest in INR, and fund houses handle foreign transactions.
Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners
Step 1: Select your investment route
Choose between:
✔ Direct US Stocks
✔ US Mutual Funds/ETFs
If you want full control → go with direct investment.
If you want hassle-free investing → choose Mutual Funds/ETFs.
Step 2: Choose a platform
For direct investment, compare platforms based on:
| Feature | Best Choice |
|---|---|
| Low brokerage | Interactive Brokers |
| Beginner friendly | Vested / INDmoney |
| Fractional shares | Groww / Upstox / Vested |
| Advanced traders | Interactive Brokers |
Step 3: Complete KYC
Documents required:
- PAN card
- Aadhar card
- Bank details
- Mobile & email verification
Approval usually takes 24–48 hours.
Step 4: Add Funds
You need to remit money in USD to your trading account. Platforms guide you through the process. Charges may include:
- Bank transfer fee
- Forex conversion fee (3–5%)
- GST/Taxes depending on service
Step 5: Start Investing
Once the amount reflects in your account, search for stocks and start investing. You can buy:
- Individual stocks (Tesla, Apple, Amazon etc.)
- US ETFs (S&P 500, Nasdaq 100)
- Fractional shares (even $1 investment possible)
Tip: Start small and invest gradually through SIP-style monthly investing.
Costs & Charges Involved
Charges vary by broker, but the common fees include:
- Forex conversion fee
- Bank remittance charges
- Brokerage/commission per trade
- Withdrawal fee
- Annual/maintenance charges (varies by platform)
Check fee details before you start.
Taxation on US Stocks for Indians
Taxes are applied in two countries:
1. Tax in the US
25% tax is deducted on dividends (refundable using DTAA)
2. Tax in India
- Capital gains tax applies when you sell shares
- Short-term (< 24 months) → Slab rate
- Long-term (> 24 months) → 20% with indexation
Consult a tax expert for detailed planning.
Risks You Should Know
Like every investment, US stocks also involve risks:
- Currency fluctuation
- Market volatility
- Higher transfer charges
- Sector-specific risks
Do proper research and invest wisely.
Best US Stocks & ETFs for Beginners (2026)
Not financial advice — research before investing
Bluechip Stocks
- Apple (AAPL)
- Microsoft (MSFT)
- Alphabet / Google (GOOGL)
- Amazon (AMZN)
- Meta (META)
- Nvidia (NVDA)
High-growth Picks
- Tesla
- AMD
- Netflix
- Shopify
Popular ETFs
- S&P 500 (SPY, VOO)
- Nasdaq 100 (QQQ)
- Total Stock Market (VTI)
- FANG+ ETF
Final Thoughts
Investing in US stocks from India is easy, legal, and highly beneficial for long-term portfolio growth. With digital brokers supporting fractional investing and seamless fund transfer, even beginners can start with small amounts like ₹1,000–₹5,000 per month.
If your goal is to diversify globally, gain exposure to world-leading companies, and benefit from dollar appreciation, then US stock investing is a smart choice for 2025 and beyond.
Start slow, stay consistent, and think long-term.