Pre-paid Wallet License
In India, the issuance and operation of prepaid payment instruments, commonly known as prepaid wallets, are regulated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Prepaid wallets are digital payment instruments that allow users to store money electronically and make various types of transactions. Here are the general requirements and procedure for obtaining a prepaid wallet license:
Requirements for Prepaid Wallet License:
Company Registration: The applicant must register a company under the Companies Act, 2013 or any other relevant law in force. The company should be registered as a public limited company.
Capital Requirement: The applicant must fulfill the minimum net worth requirement specified by the RBI. The specific amount may vary and is subject to change based on RBI guidelines.
Management Team: The applicant should have a competent management team with relevant experience and expertise in financial services and technology.
Technology Infrastructure: The applicant must have a robust and secure technology infrastructure to support the prepaid wallet operations and ensure the safety of customer funds.
Compliance Framework: The applicant should have a well-defined compliance framework in place, including policies and procedures to prevent money laundering, fraud, and ensure customer data protection.
Customer Grievance Redressal Mechanism: The applicant should have a customer grievance redressal mechanism to address customer complaints and disputes effectively.
Procedure for Prepaid Wallet License:
Application Submission: Prepare the necessary documents and submit the application for the prepaid wallet license to the Regional Office of the RBI.
Background Verification: The RBI conducts background checks on the applicant, including the directors and key management personnel, to ensure their eligibility and compliance with regulatory requirements.
Capital Contribution: The applicant must contribute the required net worth as per the guidelines specified by the RBI.
Documentation: Provide all the required documents, such as the company's incorporation certificate, memorandum and articles of association, board resolutions, business plan, technology infrastructure details, KYC documents of directors, proof of office address, and other relevant documents as specified by the RBI.
System Audit: The RBI may require the applicant to undergo a system audit conducted by an independent auditor to assess the technology infrastructure and security measures.
Grant of License: Upon satisfactory fulfillment of all requirements and successful completion of the evaluation process, the RBI will grant the license to operate as a prepaid wallet issuer.
Compliance and Reporting: After obtaining the license, the prepaid wallet issuer is required to comply with the terms and conditions specified by the RBI. This includes reporting requirements, maintenance of records, adherence to customer protection guidelines, and compliance with the prepaid wallet regulations.