✅ How to Open a Demat Account in India (2025 Step-by-Step Guide)
📌 Introduction
To buy or sell stocks, mutual funds, ETFs, or apply for IPOs in India, you must have a Demat account. In 2025, opening a Demat account is 100% paperless and takes less than 10 minutes online using your Aadhaar and PAN.
This guide walks you through the complete process to open a Demat account in India with top brokers like Zerodha, Upstox, Groww, and others.
🤔 What is a Demat Account?
A Demat (Dematerialized) account holds your shares and securities in electronic form. It is similar to a bank account, but instead of money, it stores your stocks, mutual funds, bonds, etc.
You need a Demat account to:
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Buy/sell shares on stock exchanges (NSE/BSE)
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Apply for IPOs
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Invest in ETFs and bonds
✅ Documents Required
You’ll need these to open a Demat account:
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✅ PAN Card
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✅ Aadhaar Card (linked with mobile number)
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✅ Bank Account proof (cancelled cheque or statement)
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✅ Passport-size photo (in digital format)
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✅ Signature (on blank white paper)
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✅ Active Mobile Number & Email ID
🧾 Step-by-Step Guide to Open Demat Account Online (2025)
Let’s take Zerodha as the example broker. The steps are similar across Groww, Upstox, Angel One, etc.
🔹 Step 1: Visit Broker’s Website or App
Go to the official website or download the app:
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Zerodha: https://zerodha.com/open-account
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Upstox: https://upstox.com
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Groww: https://groww.in
Click on “Open Account”.
🔹 Step 2: Enter Basic Details
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Mobile number (you’ll receive an OTP)
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Email ID
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PAN Number
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Date of Birth
🔹 Step 3: Upload Documents
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Upload scanned PAN, Aadhaar, Bank proof
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Upload Photo and Signature
🔹 Step 4: Complete eKYC with Aadhaar
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Authenticate via OTP-based eSign using Aadhaar.
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Ensure your mobile number is linked with Aadhaar.
🔹 Step 5: In-Person Verification (IPV)
Some brokers may ask for a quick video:
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Read a line on camera or show your PAN card.
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This is a regulatory requirement.
🔹 Step 6: E-Sign Application
Use Aadhaar-based eSign via NSDL or Digio.
You’ll receive an OTP again.
🔹 Step 7: Account Activation
Once verified, your Demat & Trading account is activated in 24–48 hours. You’ll receive:
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Demat ID (16 digits)
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Client ID
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Login credentials
🏦 Top 5 Brokers to Open Demat Account in India (2025)
| Broker | AMC (Annual Fee) | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Zerodha | ₹300/year | Trusted, Fast, Low-cost |
| Upstox | ₹0 (limited) | Free for 1st year |
| Groww | ₹0 | Easy UI, Best for IPOs |
| Angel One | ₹0 (offers) | Good research tools |
| ICICI Direct | ₹700+/year | Integrated with bank |
⚠️ Things to Keep in Mind
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Always use your own PAN and Aadhaar.
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Avoid multiple applications with same PAN.
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Keep email ID and mobile number active for updates.
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Check broker charges before choosing.
🧠 FAQs
❓Can I open a Demat account without trading account?
Yes, but trading account is required to buy/sell shares. Most brokers provide both together.
❓Is Aadhaar mandatory?
Yes, for paperless eKYC and faster process.
❓Is it safe to open online?
Yes. Top brokers use bank-level security and SEBI compliance.
🏁 Conclusion
Opening a Demat account in India in 2025 is fast, secure, and essential for stock market investment. Whether you’re a beginner or investor applying for IPOs, start your journey today with brokers like Zerodha, Groww, or Upstox.