AI Overview
How to open a demat account in India (2026): You can open a demat account online in 10–30 minutes. You need a PAN card, Aadhaar card, bank account details, and a smartphone or computer. Choose a SEBI-registered broker (Zerodha, Upstox, Angel One), complete the online KYC process, finish video verification, and your account activates within 24–48 hours. There is no minimum balance requirement.
Introduction: Your First Step Into the Stock Market
A demat account is the starting point for everything in Indian investing — stocks, IPOs, mutual funds, bonds, and ETFs. Without one, you cannot apply for a single IPO or buy a single share.
The good news: opening a demat account in 2026 is entirely paperless, takes under 30 minutes, and can be done from your phone.
What You Need Before You Start
- PAN card (mandatory — must be linked to Aadhaar)
- Aadhaar card (for digital KYC and e-signature)
- Bank account details (account number, IFSC code, cancelled cheque or bank statement)
- Smartphone or computer with camera (for video KYC or selfie verification)
- Mobile number linked to Aadhaar (for OTP-based verification)
Step-by-Step: How to Open a Demat Account Online
Step 1: Choose Your Broker Select a SEBI-registered stockbroker. The three most popular options:
- Zerodha — most reliable, best platform
- Upstox — lowest charges, beginner-friendly
- Angel One — best in-app research
See our Best Demat Account guide for a detailed comparison.
Step 2: Visit the Broker’s Website or App Go to zerodha.com, upstox.com, or angelone.in. Click “Open Account” or “Get Started.”
Step 3: Enter Your Mobile Number and PAN A one-time password (OTP) is sent to your registered mobile number. Enter your PAN to begin the application.
Step 4: Complete Personal Details Fill in your full name (as per PAN), date of birth, email address, and residential address.
Step 5: Aadhaar-Based e-KYC Enter your Aadhaar number. An OTP is sent to your Aadhaar-linked mobile number. This step verifies your identity and address digitally — eliminating the need for physical document submission.
Step 6: Bank Account Linking Enter your bank account number and IFSC code. Some brokers verify this instantly via penny deposit (₹1 credited and debited to confirm the account). Others accept a cancelled cheque upload.
Step 7: Choose Account Type Select whether you want a basic demat + trading account, or a 3-in-1 account (demat + trading + savings bank). For most retail investors, the standard demat + trading account is sufficient.
Step 8: Nominee Details (Optional but Recommended) Add a nominee who will inherit your securities in case of your demise. This is optional but strongly advisable.
Step 9: In-Person Verification (IPV) / Video KYC SEBI mandates a one-time identity verification. In 2026, most brokers handle this through:
- A short video call (30–60 seconds) where you show your PAN card and Aadhaar to the camera
- Or an automated selfie + liveness check
Step 10: e-Sign the Application The final application is signed digitally using Aadhaar OTP-based e-Sign — fully legally valid under the IT Act.
Account Activation: Your demat account is typically active within 24–48 hours after the broker processes your KYC. You will receive your Client ID (login credentials) via email and SMS.
Charges to Be Aware Of
| Charge | Zerodha | Upstox | Angel One |
| Account Opening | ₹200 | ₹0 (often) | ₹0 |
| Annual Maintenance | ₹300/yr | ₹150/yr | ₹240/yr |
| Transaction Charges | Exchange-based | Exchange-based | Exchange-based |
| Delivery Brokerage | ₹0 | ₹0 | ₹0 |
There is no minimum balance required to maintain a demat account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a demat account without a PAN card?
No. PAN is mandatory for all demat accounts in India.
How long does it take to open a demat account?
The online application takes 15–30 minutes. Account activation takes 24–48 hours after KYC processing.
Can a minor open a demat account?
Yes, a minor can have a demat account operated by a guardian (parent). This requires additional documentation.
Can I have multiple demat accounts?
Yes. There is no limit on the number of demat accounts you can hold, provided each is with a different broker and linked to your PAN.
Is there a minimum balance requirement?
No. There is no minimum balance for a demat account.
Summary
- Open a demat account online in 30 minutes with PAN, Aadhaar, and bank details
- Choose from Zerodha, Upstox, or Angel One based on your needs
- Account activates in 24–48 hours after KYC completion
- No minimum balance required
- IPO applications, share trading, and mutual fund investments all flow through your demat account
