KYC Update: Complete Guide.
Everything you need to know about updating your KYC — online methods, offline process, required documents, RBI deadlines, and what happens if you don't update on time.
KYC is not optional — it's mandatory.
Know Your Customer (KYC) is a regulatory requirement by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. Every bank account holder must complete and periodically update their KYC. Failure to do so can result in account freezing, transaction restrictions, or even account closure. This guide covers every method to update your KYC — online and offline.
What is KYC & Why is it Required?
Identity & Address Proof
KYC establishes your identity and address through officially valid documents (OVDs). This prevents fraud, money laundering, and terrorist financing through the banking system.
Periodic Updation Required
RBI mandates periodic KYC updation — every 2 years for high-risk customers, every 8 years for medium-risk, and every 10 years for low-risk customers. Banks send reminders via SMS and email.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
If KYC is not updated, banks can freeze your account — no withdrawals, no transfers, no cheque clearance. The account becomes "inoperative" and can only be reactivated after completing KYC.
Central KYC (CKYC) Registry
India now has a Central KYC (CKYC) registry managed by CERSAI. Once your KYC is registered with CKYC, you get a 14-digit KYC Identification Number (KIN) that works across all financial institutions.
Documents Required for KYC Update
| Category | Accepted Documents (OVDs) | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Identity Proof | Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, Passport, Driving License, NREGA Job Card | Lifetime (Aadhaar/PAN) |
| Address Proof | Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, Driving License, Utility Bill (≤3 months old), Bank Statement (≤3 months old) | 3 months (utility bills) |
| Photograph | Recent passport-size photograph (not older than 6 months) | 6 months |
| PAN Card | Mandatory for all bank accounts (as per RBI circular). Form 60 if PAN not available. | Lifetime |
| Mobile Number | Active mobile number linked with Aadhaar for OTP-based e-KYC verification | Must be active |
| Email ID | Active email address for receiving KYC status updates and bank communications | Must be active |
How to Update KYC Online
Most banks now support online KYC updation through net banking, mobile apps, or video KYC. No branch visit required for most updates.
Method 1: Net Banking
- Log in to your bank's net banking portal
- Go to "Profile" or "Service Requests" section
- Click on "Update KYC" or "Re-KYC"
- Upload scanned copies of required documents
- Submit and note the reference number
- KYC updated within 24–72 hours
Method 2: Mobile Banking App
- Open your bank's mobile app
- Navigate to "Services" → "Update KYC"
- Verify with OTP sent to registered mobile
- Upload documents or use DigiLocker integration
- Confirm submission
- Instant acknowledgment via SMS
Method 3: Video KYC (V-CIP)
- Schedule a video call via bank's website/app
- Keep original documents ready
- Show documents to the bank officer on video
- Answer verification questions
- Sign digitally or provide verbal consent
- KYC completed instantly on the call
How to Update KYC Offline (Branch Visit)
Step-by-Step Branch Process
- Visit your home branch during banking hours (10 AM – 4 PM)
- Request a "KYC Updation Form" from the help desk or download it from the bank's website beforehand
- Fill the form with your current details — account number, name, address, contact information
- Attach self-attested copies of identity proof, address proof, and a recent photograph
- Carry original documents for verification by the bank officer
- Submit the form and documents at the counter
- Collect the acknowledgment receipt with reference number. KYC is typically updated within 2–5 working days.
Tips for Smooth Branch KYC
- Carry originals: Bank officers must verify original documents against copies. Photocopies alone won't be accepted.
- Self-attest copies: Sign every photocopy with "Self Attested" and the date. Unsigned copies may be rejected.
- Aadhaar-linked mobile: Ensure your mobile number is linked with Aadhaar. Many banks now require Aadhaar OTP verification even for branch KYC.
- Avoid month-end rush: Visit between the 5th and 20th of the month for shorter queues and faster processing.
KYC Update by Major Banks
| Bank | Online KYC Method | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| State Bank of India (SBI) | YONO App / Net Banking → Service Requests → KYC Update | 3–5 working days |
| HDFC Bank | Net Banking → Profile → Update KYC / Video KYC available | 24–48 hours |
| ICICI Bank | iMobile App → Services → Re-KYC / Video KYC available | 24–48 hours |
| Axis Bank | Axis Mobile App → Service Requests → Re-KYC | 2–3 working days |
| Punjab National Bank (PNB) | PNB ONE App / Net Banking → Requests → KYC Update | 3–5 working days |
| Kotak Mahindra Bank | Kotak App → Service Requests → Re-KYC / Video KYC | 24–48 hours |
Common KYC Update Scenarios
🏠 Address Change After Moving
Update your address within 30 days of moving. Submit a new address proof (utility bill, rental agreement, or Aadhaar with updated address). Most banks allow online address change through net banking.
💡 Tip: Update Aadhaar address first — it's accepted as both identity and address proof by all banks.
📱 Mobile Number Change
Mobile number change typically requires a branch visit for security reasons. Carry your new SIM card, Aadhaar card, and passbook. Some banks allow online mobile number update if your old number is still active for OTP verification.
⚠️ Never ignore SMS alerts about mobile number changes — it could indicate fraud.
👤 Name Change (Marriage/Legal)
Submit a gazette notification, marriage certificate, or affidavit along with updated identity proof showing the new name. This requires a branch visit and may take 7–10 working days.
📋 Update PAN and Aadhaar with the new name first, then approach the bank.
👴 Senior Citizen Status Update
If you've turned 60, update your status to "Senior Citizen" to avail higher FD/RD interest rates and other benefits. Submit age proof (PAN, Aadhaar, or passport) — can be done online in most banks.
💰 Senior citizens get 0.50% extra interest on FDs and RDs across all major banks.
What is Central KYC (CKYC)?
One KYC, All Institutions
Central KYC (CKYC) is a centralized repository managed by the Central Registry of Securitisation Asset Reconstruction and Security Interest of India (CERSAI). Once your KYC is registered with CKYC, you receive a 14-digit KYC Identification Number (KIN). This single KIN can be used across banks, mutual funds, insurance companies, and other financial institutions — eliminating the need to submit KYC documents repeatedly.
🔍 Check your CKYC status: Visit https://www.ckycindia.in and enter your PAN to verify if your KYC is already registered.
Benefits of CKYC
- Single KYC for all financial products — bank accounts, mutual funds, insurance, demat accounts
- No need to submit documents repeatedly to different institutions
- Faster account opening — just provide your KIN
- Secure, government-backed registry with encrypted data storage
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know if my KYC is due for update?
Banks send SMS and email reminders when your KYC is due. You can also check in your net banking portal under "Profile" or "KYC Status". If you haven't updated in the last 2 years, it's good practice to verify your status.
Q: Is Aadhaar mandatory for KYC update?
Aadhaar is not mandatory but is the most widely accepted document. You can use other OVDs like Passport, Voter ID, or Driving License. However, Aadhaar-based e-KYC is the fastest method for online updation.
Q: Can I update KYC for my joint account online?
Yes, but both account holders must complete KYC individually. Each holder needs to log in with their own credentials and submit their documents separately. For branch visits, both holders should be present.
Q: What happens if my account is frozen due to incomplete KYC?
Complete your KYC immediately — online or at the branch. Once KYC is verified, the freeze is lifted within 24–72 hours. There are no penalties, but you cannot transact until KYC is completed.
Q: Is there any fee for KYC update?
KYC updation is free of charge as per RBI guidelines. Banks cannot charge any fee for KYC compliance. If a bank demands payment, you can file a complaint with the RBI Ombudsman.
Keep your account active and compliant.
Don't wait for the reminder SMS. Update your KYC today through your bank's net banking portal or mobile app. It takes less than 10 minutes.