Sending Money to Kochi, India
How to send USD to a recipient in Kochi, Kerala. Bank transfer tips, IFSC codes, delivery times, and how Root makes it easy.
Kochi, a vibrant coastal city in Kerala, is a key destination for NRIs in the USA sending money back home. Whether supporting family, investing in real estate, or funding local businesses, the USD to INR remittance corridor to Kochi is both frequent and essential. This guide covers everything you need to know about securely transferring money from the United States to Kochi — including fees, transfer times, tax implications, and best practices for a smooth transaction.
Kochi, located on the southwestern coast of India in Kerala, is a major commercial and cultural hub. Its thriving port, growing startup ecosystem, and strong expat ties make it a common destination for NRI remittances. NRIs often send money to Kochi for family support, property investments, education expenses, and business operations.
Quick Facts
Transfer Fee
$0 — Root charges zero fees
Exchange Rate
CHECK_LIVE (interbank rate)
Transfer Time
1-4 business days to Kochi
Banks in Kochi
HDFC, SBI, ICICI, Axis — all supported
How to Send — Step by Step
Log in to Your Root Account
Access your Root account via the web or mobile app. If you're new, sign up with your U.S. ID and proof of address.
Pro tip: Enable two-factor authentication for added security.
Enter Transfer Amount in USD
Choose how much you'd like to send from your U.S. bank account. The app shows the live USD to INR exchange rate and estimated INR amount the recipient will receive.
Add Recipient’s Bank Details
Provide the recipient’s full name, Indian mobile number, and Kochi bank account number. Ensure the name matches exactly with their bank records.
Find the Correct IFSC Code
Enter the 11-character IFSC code for the recipient’s specific bank branch in Kochi. You can find this on the bank’s website, passbook, or via online IFSC lookup tools.
Pro tip: An incorrect IFSC code can delay or cancel your transfer — double-check it.
Review & Confirm Transfer
Verify all details, including the total USD amount and expected INR credit. Agree to terms and confirm the transaction using your authentication method.
Track Transfer Status
Root provides real-time updates via email and app notifications. Most transfers reach Kochi banks within 1–4 business days.
Local Tips
Kochi is in Indian Standard Time (IST), 10.5 hours ahead of New York and 13.5 ahead of California — share updates with your recipient considering the time difference.
Major banks like SBI’s Ernakulam Main Branch and HDFC’s Marine Drive branch handle high volumes of NRI remittances — ensure you have the correct IFSC for their exact branch.
For real estate or large family fund transfers, recipients in Kochi may need to provide PAN for compliance when amounts exceed ₹7,00,000 in a financial year.
Send Money to Kochi with Root
Zero fees, interbank rate. Your family in Kochi receives INR directly.
Send to Kochi NowFrequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for money to reach a bank in Kochi?
Most transfers to banks in Kochi arrive within 1–4 business days after successful processing. Delays can occur if recipient details like account number or IFSC code are incorrect.
Can I send money to any bank in Kochi using Root?
Yes, Root supports transfers to major banks in Kochi including SBI, HDFC, ICICI, and Axis Bank. Just ensure you have the correct account number and IFSC code for the specific branch.
Is TCS applicable when I send money to Kochi?
Yes, 5% TCS is deducted at source if the total remittances under LRS (including all transfers by an Indian resident recipient) exceed ₹7,00,000 in a financial year. This applies regardless of destination, including Kochi.
Does the recipient in Kochi need a PAN card?
Indian banks may require the recipient to provide a PAN card for large transfers, especially above ₹7,00,000 in a financial year, for compliance with tax regulations.
Are NRE accounts supported for transfers to Kochi?
Root currently supports NRO and regular savings or current accounts. Support for NRE accounts is coming soon — check updates in the app for latest features.