Deposits under FCNR scheme were accepted by banks for maturities from 6 months to 3 years. Acceptance of deposits for shorter maturities was discontinued, in a phased manner and with effect from 15^th February, 1994, deposits under FCNR scheme can be accepted only for a maturity period of 3 years. However, to enable to NRI depositors to continue with foreign currency deposits of shorter maturities, a new scheme known as Foreign Currency (Non-resident) Accounts (Banks) Scheme (FCNR (Banks) was introduced, with effect from 15^th May, 1993. There is basically no difference for the depositor between these two schemes except the period of deposits.

For the banks accepting deposits under this scheme, there are a few changes. Exchange risk cover from Reserve Bank will not be available and will have to be borne by the banks themselves. There will be no obligation under the ‘Statutory Liquidity Ratio’ or priority sector lending. There is also no obligation for Cash Reserve Ratio. Resources mobilised under the scheme can be invested by the banks without any interest rate stipulation. However, non-resident depositors are not affected by these provisions.