Sebi Eases Re-KYC Rules for NRIs, Drops India Presence Requirement
- NRIs can now complete re-KYC digitally from abroad
- Physical presence in India no longer needed for verification
- Digital checks like geo-tagging and time-stamping will continue
India’s markets regulator Sebi has simplified the re-KYC process for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) by removing the earlier requirement for clients to be physically located in India during digital verification. The move aims to make re-KYC faster, smoother, and more accessible for millions of NRIs worldwide.
In a new circular, Sebi said it has revised the existing framework after receiving multiple requests from stakeholders seeking easier access for NRI investors. The regulator noted that while digital onboarding for new clients will still require them to be in India, re-KYC for existing NRI clients can now be completed from any country.
Re-KYC involves updating a customer’s identity and address details with a financial institution or intermediary. For NRIs, this process often required travel or workarounds due to strict location-based rules. The new relaxation removes that hassle.
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Despite the eased requirement, Sebi has maintained strict security measures. The digital KYC app must continue using random prompts, time-stamping, and geo-tagging to confirm the authenticity of the interaction. It also needs to ensure that the GPS location matches the country listed in the client’s address proof. Any attempts to spoof IP addresses must be blocked.
The updated rule is expected to benefit NRI investors who manage Indian market accounts but live overseas, reducing compliance delays and improving convenience without compromising security.
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