Regulatory

SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS)

By G R Hari3 min read

Quick Answer

SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS) Online India is the mandatory licensing process for entities seeking to operate as Alternative Investment Funds, Merchant Bankers, or Portfolio Managers under the Securities and Exchange Board of India Act, 1992. This registration ensures compliance with SEBI regulations and is essential for fund managers, investment advisors, and financial intermediaries.

SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS) — detailed explanation below

Governing Act — SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS) Online India

The primary legislation governing SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS) Online India is the Securities and Exchange Board of India Act, 1992. Additionally, specific regulations apply: SEBI (Alternative Investment Funds) Regulations, 2012 for AIFs, SEBI (Merchant Bankers) Regulations, 1992 for merchant bankers, and SEBI (Portfolio Managers) Regulations, 2020 for portfolio managers. These regulations prescribe eligibility criteria, capital requirements, and ongoing compliance obligations.


Government Department & Website for SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS) Online India

The regulatory authority is the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). Applications are submitted online through the SEBI Intermediary Portal at https://siportal.sebi.gov.in. The portal allows applicants to track the status of their SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS) Online India application.


SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS) Online India Application Process

The process for SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS) Online India involves the following steps:

  1. Preparation: Gather required documents such as incorporation certificate, board resolution, net worth certificate, and key personnel details.
  2. Online Application: Log in to the SEBI Intermediary Portal, fill the relevant form (e.g., Form A for AIF, Form A for Merchant Banker, Form A for PMS), and upload documents.
  3. Fee Payment: Pay the non-refundable application fee and registration fee as prescribed.
  4. Scrutiny: SEBI reviews the application and may seek clarifications or additional information.
  5. Grant of Registration: Upon satisfaction, SEBI issues a certificate of registration.

Key Forms Required for SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS) Online India

The key forms for SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS) Online India are:

  • For AIF: Form A (Application for grant of certificate of registration as an Alternative Investment Fund)
  • For Merchant Banker: Form A (Application for grant of certificate of registration as a Merchant Banker)
  • For PMS: Form A (Application for grant of certificate of registration as a Portfolio Manager)

These forms are available on the SEBI website and require details about the applicant, sponsors, key personnel, and financials.


Eligibility Criteria for SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS) Online India

Eligibility for SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS) Online India varies by category:

  • AIF: Must be a company, LLP, or trust; have a minimum corpus of ₹20 crore; and have at least one sponsor with a minimum contribution of 2.5% of the corpus.
  • Merchant Banker: Must be a company; have a minimum net worth of ₹5 crore; and employ at least two qualified professionals.
  • PMS: Must be a company; have a minimum net worth of ₹2 crore; and have at least one fund manager with relevant experience.

Timeline for SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS) Online India

The timeline for SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS) Online India depends on the completeness of the application and SEBI's processing. The process involves submission, scrutiny, and issuance of registration. No specific time estimate can be provided as it varies case by case.


Fees for SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS) Online India

The fees for SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS) Online India are prescribed by SEBI and are subject to change. Below are the indicative government fees:

CategoryApplication Fee (₹)Registration Fee (₹)
AIF (Category I & II)1,00,0005,00,000
AIF (Category III)1,00,00010,00,000
Merchant Banker50,00020,00,000
Portfolio Manager50,0005,00,000

Note: Fees are subject to revision by SEBI. Please check the official SEBI website for current rates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS) Online India?

SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS) Online India is the mandatory licensing process for entities to operate as Alternative Investment Funds, Merchant Bankers, or Portfolio Managers under SEBI regulations. It involves submitting an online application through the SEBI Intermediary Portal.

Who needs SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS) Online India?

Any entity that intends to act as an Alternative Investment Fund, Merchant Banker, or Portfolio Manager in India must obtain SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS) Online India. This includes fund managers, investment advisors, and financial intermediaries.

What are the documents required for SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS) Online India?

Common documents include incorporation certificate, board resolution, net worth certificate, details of key personnel, and audited financial statements. Specific requirements vary by category and are listed in the respective SEBI regulations.

How long does SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS) Online India take?

The timeline for SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS) Online India depends on the completeness of the application and SEBI's review. No fixed timeline can be guaranteed as it varies case by case.

Can I apply for SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS) Online India without a lawyer?

While it is possible to apply directly, the process involves complex regulatory requirements. Engaging an advocate experienced in SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS) Online India can help ensure compliance and avoid delays.

What is the fee for SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS) Online India?

The government fees vary by category. For example, the application fee for AIF is ₹1,00,000 and registration fee ranges from ₹5,00,000 to ₹10,00,000. Merchant Banker registration fee is ₹20,00,000. Check the SEBI website for current rates.

What happens after SEBI Registration (AIF/Merchant Banker/PMS) Online India is granted?

After registration, the entity must comply with ongoing requirements such as periodic filings, maintenance of net worth, and adherence to SEBI regulations. Non-compliance may lead to penalties or suspension of registration.