Documents needed to open a savings account online

Opening a savings account online is quick when the customer is prepared. Share this checklist before sending your link.

Core documents

• PAN card: usually required for a full KYC account.
• Aadhaar: for eKYC, linked to a working mobile number for OTP.
• Email and mobile number: belonging to the customer.

For video KYC

• Original PAN card to show on camera
• A plain white paper and pen if the bank asks for a signature
• Good light and a quiet place

Other details asked

• Occupation and income range
• Address (from Aadhaar or current address if different)
• Nominee details
• Purpose of the account in some cases

Common delays and fixes

• Aadhaar OTP not received: the Aadhaar mobile may be outdated. See why the Aadhaar mobile link matters.
• Name mismatch: names on PAN and Aadhaar should match.
• Video KYC failure: poor light or a photocopy instead of the original PAN.
• Address differences: the bank may ask for an extra proof.

Minimum KYC vs full KYC

Some banks first open accounts with limited features based on OTP-based eKYC, then upgrade to full KYC after video verification. Limited accounts may have balance or time limits. Encourage customers to complete full KYC promptly.

What partners should never do

• Collect PAN, Aadhaar or photos
• Ask for OTPs
• Use their own phone number or email for the customer

A ready-to-send message

"To open the account, keep your PAN card, an Aadhaar linked to your mobile, and 15 minutes free. The bank may do a short video call; sit in good light with your original PAN."

A short example

Imran keeps his PAN and Aadhaar-linked phone ready, sits near a window and completes the online form and video KYC in one go. His account is active the same day. His friend started without checking his Aadhaar mobile, got stuck at OTP and had to visit an Aadhaar centre first.

Questions customers ask

"Can I open an account without PAN?"

Some basic accounts may be possible with Form 60 or limited features, but PAN is generally needed for full KYC.

"Do I need to visit a branch?"

Not for most digital accounts with video KYC.

Key points to remember

• PAN, Aadhaar-linked mobile and email are the basics.
• Video KYC needs the original PAN and good light.
• Complete full KYC promptly if a limited account is opened first.
• Names should match across documents.
• Customers enter everything themselves.

Summary

Preparation turns a frustrating process into a 15-minute task. Share this list with every customer. Learn more on the bank account earning page.

Special situations

Students who just turned 18

They need their own PAN and an Aadhaar linked to their own mobile. Many have an Aadhaar linked to a parent's number from childhood, which needs updating first.

People who recently moved

The Aadhaar address may be old. The bank may accept it with a declaration of current address, or ask for additional proof. The customer should follow the app's instructions.

Name changed after marriage

If PAN and Aadhaar show different surnames, one document may need updating before a smooth online opening.

Why banks ask about occupation and income

These questions are part of standard know-your-customer rules. Answering accurately helps the bank set up the right account and avoids later reviews or restrictions.