KYC for NRIs is the first essential step for anyone looking to invest in Indian mutual funds. By completing KYC, you verify your identity and ensure you can start new investments, add money to existing funds, or redeem units without delays.
In 2025, KYC for NRIs has become faster, simpler, and more transparent. For instance, Aadhaar-based e-KYC is now the quickest option, allowing NRIs to complete the process fully online in just a few days. For those who cannot use Aadhaar, non-Aadhaar options remain available, offering flexibility while ensuring compliance with SEBI regulations.
Overall, this guide explains both Aadhaar and non-Aadhaar methods and highlights the latest regulatory updates. Platforms like SB NRI let you manage the entire process online, from document submission to verification, so you can focus on growing your investments.
What’s New in 2025: Key Changes You Must Know
Several regulatory and procedural changes in 2025 directly affect KYC for NRIs.
| Change | What It Means | Impact on NRIs |
| KYC Registered vs KYC Validated | “Registered” status allows existing investments, but “Validated” is required for new investments across AMCs | NRIs wanting to expand or add new AMCs must upgrade |
| Aadhaar-validated KYC is universal | Once Aadhaar-based KYC for NRIs is validated, it is accepted across all fund houses | Encourages Aadhaar users to adopt this route |
| Mandatory re-KYC deadline | Investors with weak proofs must update by March 31, 2025 | NRIs must act early to avoid transaction blocks |
| Temporary relief for NRIs | Relaxation until April 30, 2025 for those with only “Registered” status | Short grace period, but compliance is inevitable |
Also, read more: NRI Mutual Fund KYC in India – The Ultimate Guide with the Latest Re-KYC Rules.
Invest in Mutual Funds: Complete or Update Your NRI KYC 100% Online
The SB NRI app allows NRIs to complete or update KYC for NRIs, apply or update PAN, and start investing in Indian mutual funds fully online. Here’s how:
Step 1: Download & Sign Up
- Download the SB NRI app.
- Sign up and enter your PAN to create your account.
Step 2: Provide Required Documents
Your next steps depend on your current KYC status.
1. RI KYC (Resident Indian KYC) – Needs Upgradation:
If your KYC is still registered as a Resident Indian, submit the following documents through the app:
Documents to Submit in the App:
- PAN Card
- Personal details: income, marital status, etc.
- Passport (front & back)
- Overseas address proof (electricity bill, mobile bill, rent agreement, or bank statement)
- Valid Visa / OCI / Work Permit
- NRE/NRO bank statement or canceled check
- Signature
- Nominee details
Processing Time: 15–20 working days
Bonus: Link your Aadhaar to an Indian mobile number, and your KYC gets approved in just 3–4 working days.
2. NO KYC – No Prior Registration:
If you haven’t done KYC at all, follow the same steps as RI KYC above to complete your KYC for NRI status and start investing.
3. NRI KYC – Already Approved/Registered:
If your NRI KYC is already validated, you are ready to invest. Simply upload the following:
- Personal details: income, marital status, etc.
- NRE/NRO bank statement or canceled check
- Signature
- Nominee details
Processing Time: 24–48 working hours
Note: SEBI requires these documents to verify your identity and let you invest as an NRI.
Step 3: Start Investing in Mutual Funds
Once you update your KYC, you can:
- Access 1,500+ mutual fund schemes from top fund houses
- Invest with as little as ₹5000 via SIP or one-time investment
- Manage your portfolio completely online through the SB NRI app
Pro Tip: Make the most of the SB NRI app:
- Connect with a dedicated wealth manager for personalized guidance
- Get a free portfolio review from experts
- Invest, monitor, and manage all your holdings seamlessly in one place
Pro Tip: The SB NRI app ensures SEBI-compliant KYC verification, prevents mismatches, and sends real-time updates to your email or app notifications, making mutual fund investing seamless.
Download the app to invest now!
Apply or Update Your PAN Card Online
Many NRIs need a PAN card for investments, property transactions, or tax compliance in India. If you don’t have a PAN card, SB NRI will apply or update it for you fully online, and deliver it to your overseas address.
Documents Required:
- Passport (any country) / OCI card
- Passport-sized photo
- Overseas address proof (bank statement only)
Why NRIs & OCIs trust us:
- 100% digital, no India/embassy visits required
- Expert verification ensures zero rejection risk
- PAN card shipped to your overseas address with real-time updates
How It Works:
- Start your application online
- Documents verified by experts
- Track progress and receive PAN card at your overseas address
Pro Tip: Combine your KYC and PAN application through SB NRI for a completely online, hassle-free setup. Chat with a PAN expert.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Having mismatched names across PAN, passport, and KYC forms
- Submitting low-quality or unclear document scans
- Omitting FATCA or CRS declarations required for NRIs
Conclusion
Completing KYC for NRIs in 2025 is crucial to ensure uninterrupted access to Indian mutual funds. NRIs can do this either through Aadhaar e-KYC or non-Aadhaar methods.
Additionally, with platforms like SB NRI simplify the process by assisting with document submission, verification, and real-time tracking. By completing KYC early and ensuring all documents are accurate, NRIs can invest, redeem, and add funds seamlessly without any compliance issues.
FAQs
Q1: Can an NRI get a PAN card?
Yes, NRIs can apply for a PAN card online and receive it at their overseas address, which is often required to complete KYC for NRIs.
Q2: Is a PAN card mandatory for NRIs?
Yes, you need a PAN card to invest in mutual funds, conduct property transactions, and comply with taxes in India, and it’s also required to complete KYC for NRIs.
Q3: Is the NRI PAN card different from the normal PAN card?
No, it’s the same as a regular PAN card; only the application process and documents may vary slightly for overseas applicants.
Q4: Can an OCI holder have a PAN card?
Yes, OCI holders are eligible to apply for a PAN card, which they can use for banking, investments, and KYC for NRIs compliance.
Q5: How to do KYC for NRIs?
NRIs can complete KYC online by submitting passport, overseas address proof, bank statements, and nominee details through platforms like SB NRI.
Q6: Can NRIs complete KYC outside India?
Yes, NRIs can complete the entire KYC process fully online using the SBNRI app, without ever needing to visit India.
Q7: Can Aadhaar be used for NRI KYC for NRIs?
NRIs with a valid Indian mobile number can use Aadhaar e-KYC; otherwise, non-Aadhaar options are available for completing KYC for NRIs.
Q8: What is the RBI rule on KYC for NRIs?
NRIs must maintain updated KYC for NRIs to comply with mutual fund and banking regulations.
Q9: How often should KYC for NRIs be updated?
NRIs should update their KYC whenever their personal details change.
Q10: Can NRIs invest immediately after KYC for NRIs approval?
Yes, once KYC for NRIs is validated, NRIs can start investing online instantly.
