We've already looked at different FD options from YES Bank, Indian Overseas Bank, Federal and Canara Bank and even LIC.
Let's take a look at how Union Bank fares. First, some statistics.
₹12,39,933 crore crores – Union Bank of India's total deposits as of June 30, 2025
8,600+ branches spread across India with 11,200+ ATMs
106 years of banking heritage since 1919
AAA credit rating for fixed deposits
But here's the number that matters most to you as an NRI: 7.10% – the highest FD rate Union Bank currently offers to resident senior citizens, while general NRI customers can earn up to 6.60% - Senior citizen benefits do not apply to NRI FDs.
These aren't just statistics in a bank brochure. They represent one of India's largest nationalized banks offering moderate returns in an increasingly competitive FD market.
(Source: Union Bank of India - Financial Report 2025 About Us Page) ,
Why NRIs Are Choosing Union Bank FDs
Union Bank of India has carved a unique position in the NRI banking space, not through the highest rates, but through comprehensive service and government backing. With over a century of banking experience and strong regulatory oversight, it appeals to NRIs who prioritize stability over maximum returns.
Recent data shows Union Bank's NRE deposits ranging from 6.40% to 6.60%, positioning it in the middle tier of NRI banking options. But the real story lies in their diverse product portfolio and digital banking improvements.
👉 Tip: Union Bank's strength lies in its wide network and government backing, but their rates trail behind many modern alternatives designed specifically for today's NRIs.
Current Union Bank FD Interest Rates (September 2025)
Regular Domestic FD Rates
Tenure | General Customers | Senior Citizens | Super Senior Citizens (80+) |
|---|---|---|---|
7 days to 14 days | 3.40% | 3.90% | 4.15% |
15 days to 45 days | 4.25% | 4.75% | 5.00% |
46 days to 179 days | 5.50% | 6.00% | 6.25% |
180 days to 364 days | 6.00% | 6.50% | 6.75% |
1 year to 2 years | 6.30% | 6.80% | 7.05% |
2 years to 3 years | 6.40% | 6.90% | 7.15% |
3 years to 5 years | 6.60% | 7.10% | 7.35% |
5 years to 10 years | 6.40% | 6.90% | 7.15% |
Source: Union Bank official rates, effective September 2025
NRI FD Rates Overview
NRE Fixed Deposits:
- Interest rates: 6.40% to 7.15% (tax-free)
- Minimum tenure: 1 year
- Minimum deposit: ₹1,000
NRO Fixed Deposits:
- Interest rates: Similar to domestic rates
- TDS: 30.90% applicable (33.99% if interest > ₹10 lakh)
- Can be reduced with DTAA benefits
FCNR Deposits:
- Available in 5 currencies: USD, GBP, EUR, JPY, CAD, AUD
- Protects against currency fluctuation
- Interest rates vary by currency
How Union Bank's 106-Year Legacy Affects Your Returns
Historical Performance vs Modern Reality
Union Bank's journey from 1919 to becoming one of India's largest nationalized banks brings both advantages and limitations for today's NRIs:
Legacy Advantages:
- Deep understanding of government banking regulations
- Extensive branch network for family banking in India
- Strong compliance frameworks
- DICGC insurance coverage up to ₹5 lakh
Modern Limitations:
- Conservative approach to rate setting
- Slower digital innovation compared to private banks
- Traditional customer service approaches
- Limited high-tech NRI-specific products
Aspect | Union Bank | |
|---|---|---|
Highest Rate | 7.35%% (Super seniors) (But note Senior citizen benefits do not apply to NRI FDs.) | Up to 8.50% (small finance banks) |
Digital Experience | Improving but traditional | Fully digital, NRI-optimized |
Currency Options | 5 FCNR currencies | |
Account Opening | Branch-heavy process |
Pros for Gulf-Based NRIs
Strong Government Backing: As a nationalized bank with 83.49% government ownership, Union Bank offers the safety that many NRIs prioritize.
Comprehensive NRI Services: Beyond FDs, Union Bank provides complete NRI banking including remittances, loans, and investment services.
Multiple Currency Options: FCNR deposits in 5 major currencies provide some currency hedging options.
Flexible Schemes: From 7-day short deposits to 10-year long-term plans, plus specialized schemes like Union Monthly Plus for regular contributions.
Family Banking Integration: Strong domestic network makes it easier for your family in India to handle banking needs.
👉 Tip: Union Bank's NRO deposit flexibility allows joint accounts with resident relatives, making family financial management easier.
Risks and Limitations You Must Consider
Rate Competitiveness Issues
Union Bank's 6.60%-7.10% rates lag significantly behind:
- Small finance banks offering 8.5%+
- GIFT City USD FDs with currency protection
- High-yield mutual fund options
Note:
7.35% – the highest FD rate Union Bank currently offers to resident super senior citizens (80+).
While resident senior citizens can earn up to 7.10%, and general customers up to 6.60%.
“But” Senior citizen benefits do not apply to NRI FDs.)
Currency Exposure Risk
All rupee-denominated FDs expose you to INR depreciation. Historical data shows INR has weakened approximately 3-5% annually against major currencies.
Digital Banking Lag
While improving, Union Bank's digital infrastructure still feels dated compared to:
- Modern private banks with advanced mobile apps
- Fintech platforms designed for NRI needs
- Digital-first banking solutions
Opportunity Cost Analysis
With Union Bank FD at 7.10% for seniors:
- Real returns after 4% INR depreciation: ~3.1%
- Compare with GIFT City options offering currency-stable returns
- Consider tax-efficient mutual funds for long-term wealth building
Special Union Bank FD Schemes Worth Knowing
Union Flexi Deposit
Auto-sweep facility where savings above ₹50,000 automatically move to FD in ₹10,000 multiples. Provides FD returns with savings account liquidity.
Union Tax Saver Deposit
5-year lock-in with tax benefits under Section 80C. Rates: 6.40% (general) and 6.90% (senior citizens). Maximum investment: ₹1.5 lakh annually.
Union Monthly Plus
Allows monthly SIP-style contributions to build FD corpus. Minimum ₹50 monthly investment with flexible tenures.
Short Deposit Receipt (SDR)
7-179 day tenure for short-term parking of funds. Minimum ₹1,000 investment with quarterly interest calculation.
👉 Tip: While these schemes offer flexibility, compare returns with modern SIP options that might provide better long-term growth.
Step-by-Step: Opening Union Bank FD as NRI
Online Process:
- Login to Union Bank Internet Banking or Vyom app
- Navigate to 'Fixed Deposit' section
- Choose deposit amount and tenure
- Select interest payout frequency
- Add nominee details
- Submit request and receive instant confirmation
For New NRI Customers:
- Visit Union Bank NRI banking section online
- Download account opening forms
- Submit documents to designated NRI branches
- Complete KYC verification
- Fund account and book FD
Required Documents:
- Valid passport and visa
- Overseas address proof
- PAN card or Form 60
- Employment/income proof
- NRI status proof
👉 Tip: Union Bank's account opening process is more traditional compared to banks offering fully digital NRI onboarding.
Tax Implications and Compliance
For NRE FDs:
- Completely tax-free in India
- No TDS applicable
- Full repatriation allowed
- Must report in home country as per local tax laws
For NRO FDs:
- 30.90% TDS on interest income
- 33.99% TDS if interest exceeds ₹10 lakh annually
- Can be reduced with DTAA documentation
- Repatriation up to $1 million per financial year
Real Example:
For ₹10 lakh in Union Bank NRE FD at 7.10% for 3 years:
- Total interest: ₹2,30,517
- Tax: Zero
- Net return: 7.10% annually
However, if INR depreciates 4% annually against your base currency, real returns reduce significantly.
Action Plan: Should You Choose Union Bank FDs?
Data-Driven Decision Framework:
Choose Union Bank if:
- You prioritize government bank safety over maximum returns (Weight: 40%)
- You need comprehensive family banking integration in India (Weight: 25%)
- You prefer traditional, relationship-based banking (Weight: 20%)
- You want multiple currency FCNR options (Weight: 15%)
Consider alternatives if:
- You seek highest possible returns (Weight: 35%)
- You prefer modern digital banking experience (Weight: 30%)
- You want currency-protected investments (Weight: 25%)
- You need advanced NRI-specific features (Weight: 10%)
Smart Strategy for Data-Conscious NRIs:
Emergency Fund (20%): High-yield NRE savings accounts for immediate liquidity
Stable Returns (40%): Mix of Union Bank FDs and GIFT City USD deposits for currency diversification
Growth Component (40%): Mutual funds and modern investment platforms for wealth creation.
What This Means for Your Investment Decision
Union Bank's century-plus legacy brings stability and comprehensive services, but their moderate 6.60%-7.10% rates reflect a conservative approach that may not optimize returns for growth-focused NRIs.
The data suggests Union Bank works best as part of a diversified strategy rather than a standalone solution. Their government backing and extensive network provide value, but modern alternatives offer better risk-adjusted returns.
Ready to make data-driven investment decisions? Join our WhatsApp community where 5,000+ NRIs share real experiences, rate comparisons, and performance data across different banks and investment options.
Looking for modern alternatives with better returns? Download the Belong app to explore GIFT City USD fixed deposits that offer competitive returns with zero currency risk – designed specifically for today's globally mobile Indians.
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