Understanding Prepaid Wallet License

A prepaid wallet license, also known as a Prepaid Payment Instrument (PPI), is a license granted allowing a significant instrument to facilitate the purchase of goods and services against the stored value of such instruments. PPI, also known as pre-loaded cards or digital wallets, are used for making digital transactions. They simply serve as a reliable mode of payment that promotes transparency, versatility, and financial accountability.

Prepaid payment wallet, also termed as e-wallets has increasingly become popular as a convenient substitute for cash transactions. It enables users to transfer funds and pay for goods and services, which can be loaded through cash, bank transfers, or credit cards.

The PPIs, which is an instrument that enables users to conduct digital transactions, have emerged as an effective strategy for cashless exchange in today’s digital age. Connect with Enterslice to get expert assistance in launching and managing your digital payment solutions with ease.

100% online RBI-Compliant licensing process

Access to India’s regulatory growing digital payment markets

Enhanced customer loyalty through prepaid cards and wallet offers

Open to startups, NBFCs, corporates and aggregators

Regulatory approval from RBI for trust and credibility

Seamless integration with UPI, QR codes and payment gateways

Eligibility for fintech partnerships and government schemes

Supports multiple use cases, bill payments, transfers, and e-commerce

Partner with Enterslice and Get a PPI License!

Connect Enterslice to obtain a PPI License, enabling you to launch and scale your digital payment brand into the booming fintech space of India.

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Types of Prepaid Wallets in India

The different types of prepaid wallets, also referred to as the old electronic wallets or e-wallets, each having unique characteristics and purposes as defined under the 2017 Regulation, are as discussed below:

closed wallet

Closed Wallet

A closed wallet is a type of mobile or electronic wallet designed to make payments for services provided by the issuer. This type of wallet is not capable of sending money or making payments to external service providers.

Semi-closed Wallet

Semi-closed Wallet

A semi-closed wallet enables users to conveniently conduct transactions at designated merchants and places. This particular wallet is restricted in terms of its coverage area. Merchants must enter into a contract or agreement with the issuer to be able to accept payments from a semi-closed wallet.

Open Wallet

Open Wallet

An open wallet can be a prepaid payment tool that is accepted for purchasing products and services at any location. The individuals who own these wallets can also withdraw cash from ATMs.

Mobile Wallet

Mobile Wallet

Mobile wallets are digital versions of physical wallets, storing payment information on mobile devices. It guarantees easy integration with multiple payment systems, ensuring contactless payment using their mobile devices.

Procedure to Apply for Prepaid Wallet License Registration

Obtaining a prepaid wallet license registration in India involves a structured process regulated by the Reserve Bank of India. Below is a step-by-step overview that helps understand the entire procedure for obtaining a prepaid wallet license RBI in India:

File an Online Application

Initially, the applicants must make an online application in Form A to obtain approval under Regulation 3(2) of the Payment and Settlement System Regulations, 2008, along with the prescribed government fee. We help you file an online application.

RBI Screening and Eligibility Check

Once the application is submitted, the RBI must conduct a thorough screening process to ensure compliance with the necessary eligibility criteria, the applicant’s financial stability, customer service framework, operational efficiency, technological readiness, and data security measures.

Obtain In-Principal Approval

After the RBI is satisfied with eligibility criteria and fit & proper status, the applicants obtain an in-principal approval, valid for six months from the date of approval. At Enterslice, we help you get in-principal approval.

Submit an Audit Report

Within 6 months, the applicants must prepare and submit an audit and system audit report (SAR) to the RBI, otherwise, automatic in-principal approval will lapse. Submitting an advance written appeal with pertinent justification, grants a single 6 months extension to the applicants

Obtain a PPI License

After considering all the particulars furnished by entities, the applicants obtain a final approval, allowing the issuance of a prepaid wallet license, taking into account all the information provided by the applicant

Timeline to Obtain a Prepaid Wallet License Registration

The timeline for obtaining a prepaid wallet license registration in India, which typically takes around 4 to 6 months, varies depending on the multiple regulatory and documentation checks conducted by the RBI.

Document Preparation & Application Filing: 1 to 2 Weeks

It takes around 1 to 2 weeks for the preparation of documents, business model and submission of Form A to the RBI.

Preliminary Screening by RBI: 3 to 6 Weeks

It takes around 3 to 6 weeks to conduct a preliminary screening to verify the completeness of documents and eligibility of the applicant.

Detailed Evaluation of Business Model: 7 to 12 Weeks

Upon successful completion of preliminary screening, the detailed evaluation of the business model and proposed business activities takes around 7 to 12 weeks.

Inspection of Safety and Operational Readiness: 2 to 3 Months

Upon satisfactory review, the RBI takes around 2 to 3 months to conduct a thorough inspection of the technical, safety, and cybersecurity preparedness of the applicants.

Grant of License: 1 Month

Within 1 month of the satisfaction of all evaluations conducted, the RBI ensures the granting of the prepaid wallet license, ensuring the operation of PPI issuers in India.

Documents Needed to Apply for Prepaid Wallet License RBI

These are the documents required for obtaining a prepaid wallet license RBI, as mentioned below:

Name and address proof of the applicant

Address proof of the registered office of the business

Copy of certificate of incorporation and other constitutional documents

A complete report of the principal business of the entity

Details of managers and directors appointed

Appointment of statutory auditor of the company

Details of the statutory auditor of the company

Detailed business plan and project reports

The audited balance sheet of the financial year

Expected profits for the Indian financial system

The details of the proposed capital amount

Payment system details with process flow, technology, security features and interoperability

Details of bank account and bankers of the company

Any other information required by RBI (if any)

Benefits of Obtaining a Prepaid Wallet License Online

The benefits of obtaining a prepaid wallet license online, which offers budget management, safety, and ease of doing business, are as discussed below:

china trademark registration benefits

Promote Convenient Cashless Transactions

Obtaining a prepaid wallet license effectively promotes safe and convenient cashless transactions, reducing the risk of losing physical money in hand.

Eliminates Hassle of Exact Change

Obtaining a prepaid wallet license enables users to transfer funds digitally, resolving the common issue of not having change during transactions.

Fast Money Transfer with Prepaid Wallets

Having a prepaid wallet enables fast and instant money transfer, compared to traditional net banking, further simplifying everyday transactions in human life.

Low Operating Cost

The operating cost of a prepaid wallet is typically low, which involves no activation fees, monthly charges, or annual maintenance costs, making it an affordable option for both businesses and customers.

Customer Benefit and Incentives

Customers using a prepaid wallet get added benefits and incentives, including bonuses, cashback, and reward points, making digital payment not only convenient but also rewarding.

Enhances Brand Credibility

Obtaining a prepaid wallet license from the RBI significantly boosts customers' trust and confidence, positioning your brand as a credible and compliant player in the digital payment space.

Integration with Payment Systems

Obtaining a prepaid wallet license enables platform integration with key payment systems like UPI, bank APIs, and card networks, allowing for smooth and secure digital transactions.

Revenue Growth Opportunities

Obtaining a prepaid wallet license empowers businesses to offer digital payment solutions, helping them expand market reach and enhance potential revenue streams in the rapidly growing fintech ecosystem.

Eligibility Criteria to Obtain Prepaid Wallet License Online

The eligibility criteria to obtain a prepaid wallet license online, which differ based on the country/ jurisdiction, financial regulations and requirements of local regulatory bodies, are as discussed below:

  • NBFCs and Scheduled Banks: Registered NBFCs & scheduled banks authorized by the RBI to offer mobile banking transactions can introduce mobile-based prepaid payment instruments such as mobile wallets and mobile accounts.
  • Companies registered under the Companies Act: A prepaid wallet can only be issued by a company registered under the Companies Act if it is allowed in the object clause of the MOA.
  • Net Worth Required: The minimum positive net worth required for securing a Prepaid Wallet License is Rs 15 Crore.
  • Other Organization: Organisations outside the above-mentioned categories must possess a minimum net worth of the amount of Rs.25 Crore. The organization has to maintain this minimum net worth in association with its most recent audited balance sheet.
  • Requirement of Details of Infrastructure: Applicants must give detailed information about their IT infrastructure setup for operating Prepaid Payment Instruments.
  • Business Plan & Project Report: The applicant also needs to submit the details regarding their business plan and project reports to RBI. The plans will include strategies for establishing access points in scheduled areas and a customer grievance portal.

Top Industries & Businesses for a PPI License in India

The list of top 10 industries and businesses permitted to obtain a PPI license in India are as provided below:

Top 10 Industries Permitted to Apply for PPI License

  • Fintech and Payment Industry
  • E-commerce and Online Retail Industry
  • Telecommunication Industry
  • Power Generation Industry
  • Transport and Mobility Industry
  • Tourism Industry
  • Healthcare & Healthtech Industry
  • Manufacturing Industry
  • Gaming and Entertainment Industry
  • Educational Technology Industry
  • Banking and NBFCs

Top 10 Businesses Permitted to Apply for PPI License

  • Mobile Wallet Applications
  • Merchant/ Payment Aggregator Platforms
  • Digital Gift Cards or Loyalty Programs
  • Expense Management Solutions for Corporates
  • Prepaid Cards for Employees or Students
  • Online Gaming Wallets
  • Online Travel Booking Payment Solutions
  • Remittance and Cross-Border Payment Platforms
  • Utility Billers and Smart City Payment Systems
  • Payment Gateways & Checkout Service

Post Compliance Requirements for Prepaid wallet license online

Given below are the post-compliance requirements after securing a Prepaid Wallet License online-

  • Must submit quarterly and annual compliance reports to the RBI
  • Conduct regular IT and cybersecurity audits to ensure the security of the payment system
  • Follow updated KYC, ALM, and CFT policies
  • Mandatorily handle customer complaints and grievances
  • Report suspicious transactions to the Financial Intelligence Unit- India
  • Maintain a good record of all transactions
  • Must be held valid for a period of 1 year from the last loading date
  • Maintain an escrow account with a scheduled commercial bank
  • Conversion of small PPIs to full KYC PPIs within 24 months
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New Classification of Prepaid Wallet Licenses

The RBI introduced new classification for prepaid wallet licenses, determined based on the type of transactions and the level of verification required for the users.

Features Small PPIs Full KYC PPIs Gift Card PPIs PPIs for MTS
Meaning Small PPIs which include, both cash loaded and non-cash loaded facilities, are instruments used to purchase goods and services at a specific list of businesses or retailers. Full KYC PPIs are instruments used to transfer money or withdraw cash, as well as to buy goods and services from various vendors. Gift Card PPIs are instruments used to purchase by one person and redeemed by another person or group individuals of specified businesses or merchants. PPIs for Mass Transit Systems (MTS) are instruments used to collect fares and at merchant outlets that ensure conducting their operations within MTS boundaries.
Conversion Within 24 hours of the issue date, small PPIs must be converted into full KYC PPIs Not Applicable Not Applicable Not Applicable
Cash Withdrawal/ Fund Transfer Not allowed in both the cash loading and non-cash loading small PPIs. Restriction on PPIs issued by the banks. For PPIs not issued by banks, a restriction of Rs. 2000 per transaction and a total of Rs. 10000 each month. Not Applicable Not Applicable
Monthly or Yearly Loading Limits Monthly Rs. 10,000/- and Yearly 1,20,000/- There is no separate limit the PPI issuer may decide. The maximum the amount shall not exceed Rs. 10,000/- There are no separate limit the PPI issuer may decide.
Limits of Fund Transfer Not Applicable A monthly limit of fund transfers to pre-registered beneficiaries is Rs. 2,00,000 per beneficiary. Not Applicable Not Applicable
Interoperability Mandatory Mandatory They can choose to offer interoperability, but not mandatory. Exempted from providing interoperability

Why is Enterslice Best Choice for PPI e wallets License?

Opting Enterslice for obtaining a prepaid e wallets license comes with numerous benefits, making the procedure more streamlined, effective, and trustworthy. Connect us to know the reasons why Enterslice offers the best services for you to help you get prepaid wallet license in India:

  • 10+ years of expertise while obtaining PPI e wallets license
  • Trusted by 5000+ fintech clients across India
  • Secure platform setup & KYC/AML advisory
  • Custom solutions for startups, NBFCs, and enterprises
  • Seamless integration with UPI and Bharat QR
  • End-to-end support with documentation and application filing
  • Provide professional technology-based legal services
  • Ensures fulfilment of additional regulatory and legal compliance
  • Offers PAN India services for applying for PPI license RBI
  • Helps develop connections with regulatory agencies and financial institutions 
  • Offers strong industrial connections and assistance
  • Holds a committed support group and talented resources
  • Offers post-licensing and ongoing compliance support
  • Provide recent updates as published by the RBI from time to time
  • Offers transparent pricing with no hidden costs

FAQs on Prepaid Wallet License RBI

Have a look at the following answers to the most asked questions:

A prepaid wallet license, also known as a Prepaid Payment Instrument (PPI), is a license granted allowing a significant instrument to facilitate the purchase of goods and services against the stored value of such instruments.

A payment wallet is a compact software tool utilized for conducting transactions on the Internet. Many payment solution providers offer complimentary Wallet software that allows users to set up various payment methods.

It is mandatory to obtain clearance from the Reserve Bank of India for obtaining a Payment Wallet License.

RBI reserves the right to authorize Payment Wallet License to companies incorporated under the Companies Act, 2013.

Google Pay and Paytm can be considered the best mobile wallets in India.

Examples of a PPI wallet are PhonePe, Google Pay, Paytm and Amazon Pay.

The closed wallet is a kind of mobile or e-wallet designed to pay in part or full for the services offered by the wallet provider.

The Indian digital payments market, including mobile wallets, is projected to reach ₹315.33tn (approximately $4.21 trillion USD) by 2030, with a projected annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.88% from 2025, propelled by the wide acceptance of digital payments and encouraging government regulations. Key players such as Paytm, PhonePe, and Gpay play a significant role in the market's growth.

Prepaid wallets make money by levying charges on sellers and customers, receiving interest on the money held by users, and collecting transaction fees for converting currencies. They also make money through ads, deals with companies, exclusive benefits, and the sale of anonymous information. These strategies ensure that prepaid cards remain financially successful while providing easy-to-use services.

The timeframe for obtaining a prepaid wallet license takes around 4 to 6 months, varies based upon the multiple regulatory and documentation checks conducted by the RBI.

The business must maintain a net worth of the amount of Rs.15 Crores every financial year depending upon the date of final authorisation. As per the recent amendment, the new applicant should have 15 Crore NOF must be attained by 31st March, 2023 if authorised on 1st March 2021. A net worth of Rs.15 Crores must be attained by 31st March, 2024 if authorised on 31st March, 2024.

The entities eligible to obtain a PPI license in India must have a minimum positive net worth of Rs. 15 crores at all times. However, it can be either a banking or non-banking institution, provided they meet the specific criteria as specified by the RBI.

No, UPI which stands for Unified Payment Interface which can be used with a prepaid wallet is only a real-time payment system used for instant bank-to-bank transfers between bank accounts using a mobile device.

In India, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is the primary regulatory authority responsible for regulating e-wallets, also known as prepaid payment instruments in India.

The benefits of obtaining a PPI license are as discussed below:

  • Promote Convenient Cashless Transactions
  • Eliminates Hassle of Exact Change
  • Fast Money Transfer with Prepaid Wallets
  • Low Operating Cost
  • Customer Benefits and Incentives
  • Enhances Brand Credibility
  • Integration with Payment Systems
  • Revenue Growth Opportunities

Yes, Paytm is a type of semi-closed prepaid payment instrument (PPI) that functions as a digital wallet or prepaid card, allowing users to make payments through multiple methods, including UPI.

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