What is an FFMC License?

If you are an entrepreneur looking to tap into India’s growing foreign exchange market, getting a Full-Fledged Money Changer License (FFMC), also known as a Foreign Exchange License, is one of the most important steps. An FFMC license, granted by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), authorizes the companies to deal in foreign exchange services legally. Unlike unauthorized operators, it enables businesses to buy and sell foreign currency, issue forex prepaid cards, and encash traveller’s cheques in compliance with RBI guidelines.

In India, the grant of an FFMC License online serves as a gateway for businesses to expand into the lucrative forex services industry while ensuring full regulatory compliance. Confused about how to get an FFMC license? Connect with our experts and make the registration process seamless.

Facilitates legal foreign currency exchange for corporates

Enables issuance & encashment of forex cards and traveller’s cheques

Drives growth opportunities in the forex & travel industry

Builds credibility with an RBI-authorized license

Doubled the Forex market in India in 4 years

Current Forex market value is $60 billion

Power Your Forex Business with FFMC License Registration

Get RBI authorization to provide currency exchange, traveller’s cheques, and forex card services with Enterslice. With us, securing the FFMC license registration is a charm.

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Role of Authorized Money Changers in Forex Transactions

The authorized money changers play a crucial role in facilitating foreign exchange transactions for tourists and residents, in the manner discussed below:

Trade in Foreign Currency

Trade in Foreign Currency

The authorized money changers are a type of licensed AMCs, authorized to conduct trade in foreign currency and traveller’s cheques.

Issue Encashment Certificate

Issue Encashment Certificate

The authorized money changers enable issuing an encashment certificate for non-residents to later reconvert any upsent local currency back into foreign currency.

Facilitate Reconversion

Facilitate Reconversion

The authorized money changers enable the conversion of local currency held by non-residents into foreign currency, provided a valid encashment certificate is produced.

Manage Prepaid Forex Cards

Manage Prepaid Forex Cards

The authorized money changers enable issuing prepaid forex cards to residents travelling abroad, subject to the appropriate anti-money laundering and know your customer guidelines.

Appoint Franchisees

Appoint Franchisees

The authorized money changers enter into franchise agreements to expand their reach, appoint agents or franchisees to convert restricted money-changing activities.

Provide Convenient Access to Foreign Currency

Provide Convenient Access to Foreign Currency

The authorized money changers enable setting up easily accessible locations like cities and travel hubs to provide cash and prepaid forex cards for tourists arriving in or departing from the country.

Comply with FFMC regulations

Comply with FFMC regulations

The authorized money changers must ensure secure and legal transactions, operated under strict regulations mandated by the country’s central bank.

Types of Money Changers in India

The different types of money changers or dealers granted the RBI authorization under section 10 of the FEMA Act, 1999, are as discussed below-

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  • Authorized Dealer Category I The category I authorized dealers are permitted to carry out all current and capital account transactions. The RBI issues directions from time to time for regulating the transactions carried out by AD Category I, including all nationalized, lending-non-nationalized, and foreign banks.
  • Authorized Dealer Category II The category II authorized dealers are permitted to carry out specific trade-related current account transactions and any other activities of the FFMC or decided by the RBI. The upgraded FFMC, cooperative banks, and rural banks are some of the entities required to acquire a Forex License in India.
  • Authorized Dealer Category III The category III authorized dealers are permitted to carry out specific foreign exchange transactions, especially remittance services, travel-related foreign exchange services, and retail foreign exchange services incidental to the business.
  • FFMCs The FFMC, including the Department of Posts and urban cooperative banks, is authorized to purchase and sell foreign exchange for specified purposes.

Benefits of Acquiring a Full-Fledged Money Changer License

Acquiring a full-fledged money changer license offers various benefits for businesses registered as an FFMC business. Have a look at the following are the key benefits of a Full-Fledged Money Changer License in India:

Facilities Foreign Exchange Facilities

The grant of a Full-Fledged Money Changer License authorizes the companies to facilitate foreign currency exchange facilities and services comprehensively.

Authorizes Money Changing

The Full-Fledged Money Changer license granted to the companies authorizes them to carry forward the money-changing facility for both the residents and non-residents of India.

Issuance of Certificate of Encashment

The certificate of encashment for traveller's cheques and foreign currency notes is issued by the companies holding the Foreign Exchange license in India.

Facilitates Cross-Border Transactions

The issuance of an FFMC license online enables companies to facilitate cross-border transactions to support international trade and commerce.

Enables FEMA Services for Tourists

The benefit of holding a Full-Fledged Money Changer License enables the FEMA services for tourists to conduct foreign currency exchange activities as specified in the FEMA Act of 1999.

Handles Currency Transactions

The Full-Fledged Money Changer License holders are entitled to handle various currency transactions, including coins, traveller’s cheques, and foreign currency.

Store Value/Charge/Smart Card Services

The FFMC license holders ensure the simplification of the issuance of store value, charge, and smart cards for Indian residents travelling abroad.

How to Apply for FFMC License Online in India?

The process of securing an FFMC license registration in India involves compliance with the following steps. Given below is the stepwise guide to apply for FFMC license online in India-

Check Eligibility Criteria

The first step requires applicants to fulfil all the eligibility criteria as specified by the Reserve Bank of India.

Prepare Mandatory Documentation

The next step requires the applicant to prepare and compile all the mandatory documents needed for acquiring the regulatory FFMC license in India.

Draft and Submit Application to RBI

Next, the applicant must draft and prepare all the necessary documents required for acquiring an FFMC license online and processing currency exchange in India.

Review of Application by RBI

Next, the RBI is authorized to review and examine the application and documents duly submitted by the applicant companies.

Conduct Background Verification

Upon successful review of the application, a detailed background verification and relevant checks of the financial stability of the company must be conducted.

Grant of License Clearance Certificate

After the vigilant inspection is complete, the RBI is authorized to grant the license clearance certificate for a full-fledged money changer in India.

Start your RBI-approved forex business today. Apply for an FFMC License online with Enterslice.

How Long Does it Take to Apply for FFMC License Online?

The timeframe to apply for an FFMC license online typically takes around 2 to 3 months, depending on the accuracy of documentation, financial eligibility, and the RBI’s review process.

Initial Planning: 2 to 3 Weeks

This stage, which requires the review of RBI’s eligibility and adequate net owned fund criteria, takes around 2 to 3 weeks.

Documentation Preparation: 2 to 3 Weeks

It typically takes around 2 to 3 weeks for the preparation of necessary documents, including the incorporation certificate, M&AOA, audited financials, board resolution, etc.

Application Submission: 1 Week

It takes approximately 1 week to make a submission of the formal application to the concerned regional office of the RBI, along with all supporting documents.

RBI Review & Assessment: 3 to 4 Weeks

The timeline for conducting a thorough RBI review and assessment, which includes an eligibility check, financial soundness, and compliance with FEMA guidelines, takes around 3 to 4 weeks.

Background Verification and Testing: 3 to 4 Weeks

The RBI takes around 4 to 8 weeks to conduct due diligence background verification of the promoters, directors, and the financial background of the company.

Issuance of FFMC License: 2 to 3 Weeks

Once all checks are cleared, the RBI issues an FFMC license online, authorizing the company to conduct foreign exchange activities within 2 to 3 weeks.

Post-License Compliance: Varies

After reviewing the license, the time required for the companies to ensure compliance with RBI’s operational guidelines, maintain proper records, and submit periodic returns varies.

What Documents are Needed for Obtaining an FFMC License?

The following is the list of documents required for acquiring an FFMC License in India:

Certificate of incorporation & business commencement

MOA (with a clause to carry out money-changing activity)

Copy of the banks’ confidential report

Copy of the audited balance sheet of the company

Details of associated financial companies, like NBFCs

Certificate from statutory auditors (for net-owned funds)

Last 3 years audited P&L accounts

Details of the nature of the company

Copy of previous application for FFMC (if any)

Details of the board resolution for acquiring FFMC

Declaration that no proceeding is initiated by the Directorate of Enforcement/ Directorate of Revenue

Recent Updates on FFMC License RBI

As India’s economic landscape continues to evolve, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) consistently revises the FFMC regulatory framework, ensuring transparency, compliance, and effective regulation of the foreign exchange sector. Staying updated with these FFMC License RBI guidelines is crucial for businesses engaged in currency exchange, forex cards, and traveller’s cheque services.

Keeping track of recent updates on FFMC licensing guidelines emphasizes the importance of preventing penalties and helps maintain long-term credibility in the forex service market. Here, we enable businesses to explore the RBI updates on FFMC licensing norms and what they mean for current and aspiring full-fledged money changers in India:

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Stricter KYC & ALM Compliance

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Digitalization of Licensing Process

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Expanded Scope of Permissible Transactions

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Revised Reporting Requirements

RBI Permitted Activities for FFMCs in India

In India, the RBI permitted activities for FFMCs, and authorized entities to carry out specific foreign exchange services under the FEMA Act, 1999. These activities allow FFMCs to legally facilitate forex services for individuals, corporates, and institutions, ensuring smooth currency exchange operations in India’s growing forex market.

Have a look at the specific foreign activities permitted by the RBI under section 10 of the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999:

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Purchase of Foreign Currency

FFMCs are allowed to purchase foreign currency notes, coins, and traveller’s cheques from both residents and non-residents visiting India.

Encashment Services

In addition, the FFMCs are allowed to issue an encashment certificate, only upon the purchase of foreign currency, required for reconverting unspent Indian currency for non-residents.

Sale of Foreign Exchange

FFMCs are allowed to sell foreign exchange to Indian residents for specific purposes such as private and tourist travel, business travel, overseas education, and medical expenses abroad.

Sell Indian Rupees

The FFMCs are allowed to sell Indian rupees to foreign tourists and visitors against international credit and debit cards.

Penalties for Non-Compliance with FFMC Registration Norms

For any non-compliance with the FFMC registration requirements, the RBI reserves the right to impose a penalty, revoke or cancel the license granted to the authorized money changers. The following are the circumstances under which the RBI holds the right to revoke or penalize the Full-Fledged Money Changer license holders.

  • If the licensee conducts activity against the public interest
  • For any contravention of a statutory or regulatory provision
  • Fails to comply with any condition authorizing the grant of the FFMC license
  • Contravenes any provision of the FEMA Act, 1999

Eligibility Criteria for Obtaining a Money Changer License

The eligibility criteria for obtaining a money changer license in India are as discussed below:

Checklist for Applicants Obtaining a Money Changer License

  • Mandatory registration of the company under the Companies Act
  • Minimum NOF of Rs. 25 lakhs for single-branch licenses
  • Minimum NOF of Rs. 50 lakhs for multiple branch licenses
  • Comply with fit and proper criteria as specified
  • No ongoing legal cases or disputes with the Department of Revenue Intelligence
  • Ensure inclusion of the object clause in the MOA
  • Promoters and directors must have a clean financial background
  • Furnish a board resolution with the intent to engage in forex business
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Checklist of Fit and Proper Criteria for FFMC License RBI

  • Individuals must not be more than 60 years of age
  • Applicants must not be a member of any Legislative body
  • Applicants must have a clean record with no history of fraud
  • Must not hold the office of a Member of Parliament
  • Must be free of any past criminal history
  • Must not carry any sanctions or restrictions from regulatory bodies

Post-FFMC Licensing Compliance Requirements

After acquiring the forex license in India, certain requirements must be complied with. The following is the list of mandatory post-FFMC licensing compliance requirements:

  • Ensure business commencement within 6 months of successful acquisition of FFMC license online
  • Ensure submission of all documentary evidence after FFMC license registration
  • Maintain records and registers for carrying out money-changing activities in India
  • Comply with a system of concurrent audit to regulate transactions undertaken by FFMC businesses
  • Be prepared for inspection of books of accounts
  • Ensure submission of the last 3 years’ audited balance sheet & P&L account at the RBI’s regional office
  • Ensure compliance with the ongoing reporting requirements
  • Apply for additional branches to carry out money-changing activities in remote areas
  • Make use of the license and franchise agreement to appoint franchises
  • Ensure renewal of FFMC license within 2 months from the date of its expiry
  • Ensure a prominent display of a copy of the money-changing licenses at each business place
  • Ensure at least 75% of foreign currency notes purchased are sold to the public each quarter
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Why Trust Enterslice for Obtaining an FFMC License?

As a leading consulting firm, Enterslice specializes in acquiring an FFMC license and provisioning a franchise agreement. Connect with us and choose our legal advisory services for obtaining a full-fledged money changer license in India:

  • Holds an in-depth knowledge of RBI and FEMA regulations
  • Access to a strong network of 10,000+ CAs, CS, and lawyers
  • Impressive 99.9% success rate in completing the FFMC registration process
  • Provides professional technology-based legal services for FFMC licensing
  • Ensures hassle-free documentation for obtaining an FFMC License online
  • Ensures fulfilment of additional regulatory and legal compliance
  • Provides a 30% quicker processing time than the industry norm
  • Promotes transparency by providing a clear picture of the expenses and charges
  • Provides PAN India services for acquiring an FFMC license
  • Provides expert assistance for conducting audits and inspections, as required
  • Provides professional consultancy services for its timely renewal

FAQs on Full-Fledged Money Changer License

FFMC stands for Full-Fledged Money Changer, an RBI-authorized entity that deals in the sale and purchase of foreign exchange from non-residents visiting India and residents, and sells it solely to fulfil personal and business travel needs.

The entities eligible to apply for the FFMC license in India must comply with the following criteria:
  • Mandatory registration of the company under the Companies Act
  • Minimum NOF of Rs. 25 lakhs for single-branch licenses
  • Minimum NOF of Rs. 50 lakhs for multiple branch licenses
  • Comply with the fit and proper criteria as specified
  • No ongoing legal cases or disputes with the Department of Revenue Intelligence
  • Ensure inclusion of the object clause in the MOA
  • Promoters and directors must have a clean financial background
  • Furnish a board resolution with the intent to engage in foreign exchange business

The RBI-authorized FFMC license is generally valid for a period of 1 year and must be annually renewed at least 2 months before expiry.

Yes, an FFMC can issue a forex card only if it holds the necessary licenses from the RBI.

Yes, a full-fledged money changer license can be renewed annually by submitting updated documents to the RBI.

No, banks are not eligible. Only non-bank entities engaged in foreign exchange operations can apply for an FFMC license.

Minimum capital requirements: Rs. 25 lakhs for single-branch, Rs. 50 lakhs for multiple-branch licenses.

The application must be filed at the regional office of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) where the company is located.

Forex Correspondents is a new emerging category introduced by the RBI.

To provide legitimate and regulated foreign exchange services to travellers, students, and businesses.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) regulates FFMCs and grants licenses under section 10 of FEMA, 1999.

FFMCs earn by charging margins on buying and selling foreign currencies and fees for services like issuing prepaid forex cards, handling remittances, and offering affiliated financial services.

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