The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) has introduced new rules to make opening a National Pension System (NPS) account faster and simpler.
Now, anyone can open an NPS account within a few minutes — without submitting extra documents. You only need one of the following:
Central KYC (CKYC) number – a 14-digit number that integrates KYC for all financial services.
Savings bank account number – provided that KYC has already been completed for that bank account.
Two Methods for KYC Verification
KYC (Know Your Customer) verification for NPS can now be completed in two ways:
Face-to-Face Verification
Document-based: The officer verifies your identity using documents like Aadhaar, Passport, or Voter ID.
Video call: Your identity is confirmed through a live video session.
Non-Face-to-Face Verification
Aadhaar Biometric KYC: Identification is done through fingerprint, facial, or iris scan.
Ways to Open an NPS Account
You can now open an account online or offline.
Online Method
Visit the official NPS website or app.
Complete KYC verification using Aadhaar or bank account details.
No need to visit any authorized center.
There are several digital options for verification:
Aadhaar OTP: Verify through the OTP sent to your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
DigiLocker/CKYC: If your data is already stored in a government database, it will be auto-fetched.
Video KYC: Record a video through the secure app for verification.
Offline Method
Visit any authorized bank or post office (POP) branch.
Fill out the new NPS registration form.
Submit your documents for verification to the official present.
How the Process Has Improved
Earlier, opening an NPS account was time-consuming and required visiting an authorized center with multiple documents like Aadhaar, PAN, and proof of address.
Separate KYC verification was mandatory.
Filling forms and completing the process could take 2–3 days.
Many people, especially in rural areas, found it difficult.
Now, the process is completely digital — taking only a few minutes to complete.
Step-by-Step: How to Open an NPS Account
Visit the official NPS website (www.npscra.nsdl.co.in) or an authorized agency’s mobile app.
- Click on “New Account” or “Quick Digital Onboarding.”
- Fill in the required details and enter your email and CKYC number or bank account number.
- The system will automatically fetch your name, address, and date of birth from government records. Verify these details.
- Complete KYC verification using your preferred method.
- Add a nominee and make your first contribution.
- Once the process is complete, you’ll receive your Permanent Retirement Account Number (PRAN).
