HDFC vs Axis Bank for NRI Banking: Which Is Better?

I don't think there is a universal winner between HDFC and Axis.

If you frequently need branch support in India, I’d look at which bank has a convenient branch where your family/property is located. If you mostly manage everything from abroad, compare the digital banking, remittance process, customer support, and forex rates.

Also, don’t choose solely based on the savings interest rate. For NRI banking, the cost of transferring money internationally and managing NRO funds can be more important.

I use Axis for my NRI accounts and have found it reasonably convenient for managing things from overseas.

One useful point is that Axis has a specific resident-to-NRO conversion process. Its documentation includes passport, overseas residence proof, PAN/Form 60, address proof, and FATCA/CRS information.

For someone who already has an Indian savings account and has become an NRI, I’d definitely speak to the bank about redesignating the account instead of continuing to operate it as a normal resident account.

Axis also offers NRE and NRO options, with NRE intended for repatriable funds and NRO for Indian income and expenses. 

I’ve been using HDFC for NRI banking and, for me, the biggest advantage has been the overall online banking experience. I mainly use my NRE account for overseas remittances and NRO for Indian expenses.

The process can still involve KYC and documentation, especially when converting an existing resident account. So I wouldn’t expect everything to be completed instantly just because the bank has online facilities.

I’d compare the actual NRE/NRO charges, minimum balance requirements and foreign exchange rates before deciding. Those can make more difference over time than the basic account features.