Mutual Funds video-kyc

Video KYC for mutual funds

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Video KYC enables mutual fund investors to complete KYC via a real-time video call with an authorised AMC agent rather than physical document submission or branch visits. The framework was introduced and accelerated during the 2020 COVID period when physical KYC became operationally challenging, and has since become an established alternative to Aadhaar OTP eKYC and physical KYC.

Framework

Regulatory basis

Per SEBI / AMFI guidance:

  • Video KYC permitted as alternative to physical KYC.
  • Authorised AMC personnel conduct the video call.
  • Identity verification documents shared during call.
  • Live verification of identity and signatures.

Operational mechanics

  1. Investor requests video KYC via AMC / direct-plan platform.
  2. Schedules video appointment.
  3. Authorised agent conducts call.
  4. Investor presents Aadhaar / PAN / other IDs to camera.
  5. Live signature capture (where required).
  6. KYC completed within 10 to 15 minutes.

Use cases

Higher-value subscriptions

For investments above the Aadhaar OTP eKYC limit (Rs 50,000):

  • Video KYC provides the next-tier verification.
  • No physical-presence requirement.
  • Faster than in-person KYC.

NRI onboarding

  • For NRI investors abroad.
  • No need to visit Indian branch.
  • Verifies identity and address.

Non-Aadhaar residents

  • Investors who do not have Aadhaar.
  • Verification via passport, voter ID, other documents.

Comparison

MethodSpeedVerificationBest for
eKYC Aadhaar OTP2 minMidSmall-amount retail
Video KYC10-15 minHighHigher-value / NRI
In-person KYCHours / daysHighSpecific scenarios

Industry adoption

  • Most major AMCs and direct-plan platforms offer video KYC.
  • Particularly important for HNI and NRI onboarding.
  • Continues to evolve with new verification technologies.

See also

External references

References

  1. AMFI public records and industry data.
  2. SEBI (Mutual Funds) Regulations 1996.
  3. Indian financial press coverage.

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