Global investing is no longer limited to institutional investors. Today, Indian investors can easily invest in US stocks like Apple, Google, Amazon, Tesla, and Microsoft directly from India. Investing in US equities allows portfolio diversification and exposure to some of the world’s largest and most innovative companies.

This guide explains how to invest in US stocks from India, the available methods, taxation, benefits, and risks.

Why Invest in US Stocks?

The US stock market is home to global leaders across technology, healthcare, finance, and consumer sectors. Investing in US equities helps Indian investors gain exposure to mature markets, global currencies, and innovation-driven companies.

How to Invest in US Stocks from India ?

1. Invest via International Trading Platforms

Indian investors can open accounts with platforms that offer direct access to US markets. These platforms allow fractional investing, meaning you can buy a portion of a US stock instead of one full share.

2. Invest Through Indian Brokers Offering US Stocks

Some Indian brokerage platforms partner with global custodians to enable US stock investing directly through an Indian interface.

3. Invest via US-Focused Mutual Funds & ETFs

If you prefer indirect exposure, you can invest in:

• International mutual funds
• US index ETFs (like S&P 500 or Nasdaq-focused funds)

This method suits investors who prefer managed exposure over direct stock selection.

Step-by-Step: How to Invest in US Stocks from India

1. Choose a platform offering US stock access

2. Complete KYC and documentation
3. Enable international investing feature
4. Transfer funds in INR (auto-converted to USD)
5. Search and invest in US stocks or ETFs
6. Track portfolio and dividends

Minimum Investment Required

• No fixed minimum investment

• Fractional investing allows starting with small amounts
• Costs depend on brokerage, forex conversion, and platform fees

Taxation on US Stock Investments for Indian Investors

• Capital gains taxed in India

• Short-term and long-term taxation depends on holding period
• Dividends taxed as per Indian income tax slab
• Foreign tax credit may be available for US taxes paid

(Consult a tax advisor for accurate filing.)

Advantages of Investing in US Stocks

• Global diversification
• Exposure to world-leading companies
• Dollar-denominated investments
• Access to innovative sectors
• Hedge against INR depreciation

Risks of Investing in US Stocks

• Currency fluctuation risk
• Global market volatility
• Regulatory and tax complexity
• Platform and compliance risk
• Geopolitical and economic risks

FAQs – Investing in US Stocks from India

1️. Is it legal for Indians to invest in US stocks?

Yes, Indian residents can legally invest in US stocks under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS).

2️. What is the LRS limit for investing in US stocks?

Under LRS, Indian residents can remit up to USD 250,000 per financial year for overseas investments.

3️. Do I need a US bank account to invest in US stocks?

No, most platforms allow funding directly from Indian bank accounts.

4️. Can I invest in US stocks with a small amount?

Yes, fractional investing allows you to start with small amounts.

5️. Are US stock investments safe?

US markets are regulated, but investments are subject to market, currency, and global risks.

6️. How are dividends from US stocks taxed in India?

Dividends are taxed as per your income tax slab in India, with possible foreign tax credit.

7️. Can I invest in US ETFs from India?

Yes, investors can invest in US ETFs either directly or via Indian mutual funds offering overseas exposure.