The Securities and Exchange Board of India has proposed changes that could allow eligible NRIs, OCI cardholders and other individuals living overseas to complete the investment-account KYC process digitally from their country of residence.
Under the proposed framework, regulated intermediaries could accept KYC forms and officially valid documents electronically. SEBI is also considering relaxing the existing location requirement that can prevent applicants from completing digital verification while outside India.
Other proposals concern electronic signatures, verification of overseas mobile numbers, self-declaration of current addresses and an expanded list of officials permitted to certify identity documents.
The proposed system could reduce reliance on physical paperwork and international courier services when opening Indian investment accounts. However, the consultation may not cover every overseas investor; conditions connected with residency, documentation and the applicant’s jurisdiction could apply.
This is a public consultation—not a final regulation. Existing KYC requirements remain in effect until SEBI issues and implements a formal circular.
