Why banks ask for video KYC
RBI's KYC rules let banks verify you over a live video call instead of a branch visit, a process RBI calls V-CIP. An Aadhaar OTP on its own only allows very small credit limits, so card issuers finish your KYC on video. The call is recorded, geotagged and run from the bank's own systems.
Keep these ready
- Your original PAN card. RBI's rules say a printout of an e-PAN isn't valid, and HDFC says colour copies aren't accepted.
- A blank, unruled white sheet and a blue or black pen. You'll sign on camera.
- Your Aadhaar-linked mobile number, for the OTP before the call.
- Another address document (passport, driving licence or voter ID) if your current address isn't the one on Aadhaar.
- A phone or laptop with a working camera, location access switched on and a steady internet connection.
- Good light on your face and a plain background. Sit facing a window or lamp, not with it behind you.
- Be in India, with no VPN. Banks must block calls from outside India.
Do it within three days
RBI requires the video call to happen within three working days of the Aadhaar verification step, which is why KYC links expire quickly. Axis says its link is valid for 72 hours; HDFC says three working days. If you can, finish the call the same day you fill in the form.
Bank by bank
| Issuer | Video KYC hours | Link valid for | If the link expired |
|---|---|---|---|
| HDFC Bank | 10 am to 11:59 pm daily, except national holidays (HDFC's video KYC page) | 3 working days | Check status on HDFC's tracker and contact the bank for a new link |
| Axis Bank | 8 am to 10 pm | 72 hours | Restart it yourself on Axis's card video KYC page with the application ID sent by SMS and an OTP |
| ICICI Bank | Not stated on ICICI's pages | Not stated | Resume from ICICI's application status page with your mobile or reference number |
| IndusInd Bank | Part of the online application | Not stated | Resume through IndusInd's official application journey |
| SBI Card | By appointment; a link is sent | Not stated | Use "Retrieve Application" on SBI Card's tracker |
| American Express | 9 am to 9 pm, except public holidays | Reopen the same email link | New applications are paused in India |
Hours are from each issuer's own pages, checked 28 Oct 2026. Some banks state them only for account KYC; if a link opens outside these hours, try again during them.
What happens on the call
- The agent confirms your name, date of birth and application details.
- You hold your original PAN card up to the camera so it can be read and photographed.
- The agent takes a live photo and matches it with your Aadhaar and PAN.
- You sign on the white sheet and show it to the camera.
- You may be asked a few questions about your job, income or address. Answer them yourself.
Why video KYC calls fail
- Someone else answering for you. RBI requires the bank to reject the call if it sees prompting, so do it alone.
- A copy or e-PAN printout instead of the original PAN card.
- Poor light or a blurred PAN the system can't read.
- Location off, a VPN, or being outside India.
- A dropped call. RBI's rules say a fresh session must start, so open the same link again rather than waiting.
- Name or address mismatches between your PAN, Aadhaar and application.
Stay safe
Questions people ask
How long is a credit card video KYC link valid?
Usually about three days. RBI requires the call within three working days of Aadhaar verification; Axis states 72 hours and HDFC three working days.
Can I use an e-PAN or a photocopy for video KYC?
No. RBI's KYC Directions say a printed copy of an e-PAN isn't valid. Use your original PAN card.
My video KYC call disconnected. What now?
Reopen the same link. RBI's rules say a fresh session must start after a call drop. If the link has expired, get a new one from the bank's application tracker.