OTP based e-KYC for Savings Account

The RBI's recent decision to provide OTP-based e-KYC verification has the potential to speed and streamline the process of opening a bank savings account by doing away with the necessity for in-person bank visits. 

Updated On - 03 Oct 2025
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 Explain e-KYC 

The process known as ‘e-KYC’ uses fingerprint recognition and other Aadhar-based biometric authentication techniques to electronically verify your identity and personal data. 

Why does it matter? 

All bank account holders and those investing in mutual funds are required to complete the KYC (Know Your Customer) process in accordance with the criteria established by the RBI and SEBI.

What is the OTP-based e-KYC process and how does it work? 

In accordance with a recent directive, you can now ask the bank to complete the KYC verification process when opening an account by sending an OTP to your mobile phone. However, there are particular rules pertaining to accounts formed in this way: 

  1. For these accounts, the maximum deposit amount is Rs.1 lakh. 
  2. Within a fiscal year, the total amount of money deposited in these accounts cannot exceed Rs. 2 lakhs. 
  3. In a year, term loans up to Rs.60,000 can be approved. 
  4. Banks must finish the official KYC process within the allotted time limit, or the account will be cancelled. The account must be transformed into a regular account within a year. 
  5. A declaration stating that you haven't opened and won't open another account using OTP-based KYC—with the same bank or with a different one—must be submitted.

Benefits of OTP-based eKYC 

The benefits of OTP-based eKYC are given below: 

  1. Paperless Process: This approach eliminates the necessity for physical documents, reducing paper consumption and contributing to environmental sustainability. Banks can foster a greener ecosystem by replacing traditional paper-heavy processes. Additionally, customers are relieved of the burden of physically storing or carrying vital documents like the Aadhaar card and PAN card, reducing inconvenience and risk. 
  2. Regulatory Compliance and Efficiency: OTP-based e-KYC helps banks align with regulatory requirements while expediting the account opening procedure. 
  3. Accessibility: OTP-based e-KYC empowers individuals to open various savings accounts from the comfort of their homes, offices, or any location with a mobile phone, internet access, and Aadhaar card details. This is especially beneficial for those residing in remote areas or individuals with limited mobility, expanding financial access to a broader audience. 
  1. Cost-Efficiency: Traditional account opening processes involve manual paperwork and labor-intensive steps, increasing operational costs for banks. By embracing OTP-based e-KYC technology, banks can eliminate physical documentation, streamline operations, and reduce expenses. These savings can be transferred to customers in the form of more attractive interest rates and reduced fees. 
  2. Enhanced Security: This method enhances security by sending a one-time password to the customer's registered mobile number. This extra layer of security verifies the customer's identity, helping to prevent identity theft and fraudulent activities. Customers can confidently explore savings account options without concerns about the safety of their personal information. 
  3. Customer Satisfaction: OTP-based e-KYC enables customers to complete the verification process swiftly and conveniently, eliminating the need for extended waiting times and complex paperwork. The process is transparent and efficient, simplifying the process of opening a new bank account for customers. The accuracy and validity of customer information are easily confirmed through the OTP, resulting in expedited processing times. This, in turn, leads to contented customers who appreciate the efficiency of the service. 

In essence, OTP-based e-KYC offers a paperless, accessible, cost-effective, and secure method that enhances customer satisfaction while streamlining the account opening process for both banks and their valued customers.

FAQs on OTP based e-KYC for Savings Account

  • Can I use e-KYC to open a bank account?

    You can open an account digitally with Aadhaar OTP based E-KYC instead of going to a bank in person. After that, you can click to connect on a video call with a bank official for an audio-video based verification. 

  • Does KYC require visiting a bank?

    To safeguard the financial system, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has mandated that users update their KYC information on a regular basis. Without going to the bank, users can update their KYC online if they have proper documents and haven't changed their residence. 

  • Is OTP-based e-KYC available for residents in remote areas with limited access to bank branches?

    Yes, OTP-based e-KYC is accessible to individuals in remote areas or those with limited mobility, provided they have a mobile phone and an internet connection to receive the OTP. 

  • Can I apply for loans with a savings account opened using OTP-based e-KYC?

    Yes, you can usually apply for term loans, subject to specific limits, with a savings account opened through OTP-based e-KYC. The maximum loan amount may be restricted. 

  • Can I open various types of savings accounts through OTP-based e-KYC?

    Yes, OTP-based e-KYC allows you to open different types of savings accounts, such as regular, salary, or specialized savings accounts, depending on the bank's offerings. 

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