In this article, we’re explaining how to navigate an application for opening a bank account in India.
This will include how to apply for an account, the information you need to provide in an application, and answers to common questions we receive from applicants.
That said, if you’re looking for a detailed (and actionable) look at banking in India as a non-resident, click here and access our free guide on NRI bank account opening right now.
Feel free to use the table of contents to jump ahead to the sections most relevant to you.
Table of Contents
- Application for Opening Bank Account
- How to Apply For Bank Accounts in India?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Do You Want Help Opening Bank Accounts?
Application for Opening Bank Account
An application for opening a bank account in India will include a completed account opening form and submission of government-issued identification. It may also include the submission of a personal letter. If requested, this letter will include your name, city of origin, and type of account you wish to open.
Below, we will detail the exact information and format that prospective clients should follow when completing an application for opening a bank account in India.
Some financial institutions issue official certificates, such as bank solvency certificates to individuals involved in certain government and legal proceedings. If you require a bank solvency certificate, it’s important to understand how to request it from your bank.
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How to Apply For Bank Accounts in India?
To apply for bank accounts in India, you first need to determine which bank you want to apply to and which account type you want to open. This is the most important step as different banks will have different account opening requirements. Next, you’ll start the process of collecting account opening documents and submitting them to the bank.
In addition to choosing where you want to open, you also need to meet the bank’s specific requirements. Here’s a look at the common requirements you should expect to meet when submitting an application for opening a bank account in India.
Application Requirements for Opening a Bank Account
- Completed application form
- Photo identification (e.g. PAN card, Passport, Aadhar)
- Proof of address (e.g. Voter ID, Aadhar)
- Two passport-size photographs
When it comes time to apply for an account, you can either start the process at a local branch or through the bank’s website. Of course, certain banks will have unique requirements, and if you are applying to open an account with a local bank, you may be asked to provide an account opening letter.
Here is a look at the common information and format included in an account opening letter to open a bank account in India.
Account Opening Letter Format
First of all, an account opening letter is a simple declaration of your intent to open an account with a financial institution. In other words, the account opening letter is not complicated. So, if you have been asked to provide a letter as part of your application for opening a bank account, you can use the following format to guide your writing.
PERSONAL SAMPLE:
Dear sir,
My name is [insert your name] from [insert your city of residence]. I am requesting to open an account with [bank name] and have attached a completed application form along with all of the necessary documents.
Sincerely,
[insert your signature]
[insert your name]
BUSINESS SAMPLE:
Dear sir,
My name is [insert your name]. I am requesting to open an account with [bank name] for my company, [insert company name]. [insert company name] is engaged in [insert business activities]. I have attached a completed application form for [insert company name] along with all of the necessary documents.
Sincerely,
[insert your signature]
[insert your name]
[insert your title in the company]
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are three of the most common questions that we receive from people looking to submit an application for opening a bank account in India. If you have further questions you would like answered, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us directly.
How Do I Write an Application Letter to Open a Bank Account?
You write an application letter to open a bank account with a bank by including your name, your place of residence, and confirming that you have provided all of the necessary documentation. If you are completing an application for opening a business bank account, you will also need to include the name of the company and the business activities that it is engaged in.
What Are the 7 Steps to Open a Bank Account?
The seven steps to open a bank account include (1) selecting the bank, (2) choosing the account type, (3) determining the account opening requirements, (4) collecting the necessary documentation, (5) completing the account opening application, (6) submitting your completed account opening package, and (7) signing the account opening documents.
How to Write a Letter to the Bank Manager to Open a Current Account?
To write a letter to a bank manager to open a current account you will need to include your name, place of residence, interest in opening an account, and that you have included all necessary requirements. That said, certain banks may have specific requirements so it’s important to confirm with the bank before submitting your application.
Do You Want Help Opening Bank Accounts?
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