The Rise of Payments Banks: A Comprehensive Guide to Setting Up Your Own

With digital banking on the rise, payments banks have emerged as a vital financial service, bridging the gap between traditional banking and modern financial technology. If you are considering starting a payments bank, this guide will walk you through the fundamentals, required documents, and the step-by-step process to obtain the necessary approvals.

A payments bank is a specialized financial institution that provides basic banking services such as deposits, money transfers, bill payments, and digital transactions. Unlike commercial banks, payments banks cannot offer loans or issue credit cards. Examples include Airtel Payments Bank, India Post Payments Bank, and Paytm Payments Bank.

1. Limited Deposit Facility – Payments banks can accept deposits up to ₹2 lakh per individual account, as per RBI guidelines.

2. No Credit Services – They cannot provide loans or issue credit cards but can offer debit cards.

3. Digital & Mobile Banking – Payments banks operate primarily through mobile apps and digital platforms, making transactions seamless.

4. Financial Inclusion – These banks target unbanked and underserved populations, especially in rural areas.

5. Bill Payments & Fund Transfers – Customers can pay utility bills, recharge mobile services, and transfer funds using UPI and NEFT/IMPS.

To set up a payments bank in India, businesses must comply with RBI regulations. Below is a list of essential documents:

• Business Registration Certificate (Private Limited Company or LLP)

• PAN & GST Registration

• Directors’ KYC Documents (Aadhaar, Passport, or Voter ID)

• Detailed Business Plan (Includes market strategy and projected financials)

• Minimum Capital Requirement of ₹100 Crore (As per RBI regulations)

• RBI Application & License Fee

• Cybersecurity Compliance Report

• IT Infrastructure Details (Server security, encryption, and data protection measures)

• Customer Grievance Redressal Policy

To legally operate a payments bank in India, follow these steps:

1. Company Incorporation – Register your business entity as per Indian laws.

2. Apply for RBI’s In-Principle Approval – Submit your application along with a business plan and financial details.

3. Set Up IT & Security Framework – Implement necessary cybersecurity measures.

4. Meet Minimum Capital Requirements – Maintain a net worth of ₹100 crore.

5. Obtain RBI’s Final Approval – After compliance checks, RBI grants the final license.

6. Launch the Bank – Develop the digital banking platform, onboard customers, and integrate payment gateways.

• Growing Digital Economy – India’s rapid shift to digital transactions increases demand for payments banks.

• Revenue Opportunities – Earn through transaction fees, partnerships, and account management services.

• Financial Inclusion – Serve unbanked populations and expand financial accessibility.

Starting a payments bank requires thorough regulatory compliance, financial structuring, and digital infrastructure setup. At FinFit Advisor, we provide expert consulting services, including:

• Assistance in obtaining an RBI license

• Legal and regulatory advisory

• IT & cybersecurity framework implementation

• Digital banking platform development

Ready to launch your payments bank? Contact FinFit Advisor today!

📩 Email: finfitadvisor@gmail.com