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Is personal visit to any bank branch mandatory to reinstate bank accnt


03-Mar-2026 (In Recovery Law)
I had a personal bank account which became inactive due to non-usage, Then it went into unclaimed status. I contacted bank and gave them new KYC, and other notarized documentation, Since I am NRI, they insist to convert to NRE account which I did. Five month pass. Now they demand I need to visit branch in India with original documents to activate account. is bank demand legal or are they violating RBI guidelines?
Answers (3)

Answer #1
737 votes
Banks are required to follow RBI KYC and FEMA guidelines for NRI accounts. Asking for original documents or in-person verification to activate a dormant or unclaimed account, especially after conversion to an NRE account, is generally within the bank’s compliance requirements. However, in many cases banks may also allow video KYC or verification through the Indian embassy/consulate or authorized representative. You may request such alternatives. If the bank unreasonably refuses despite proper KYC, you can file a complaint with the bank’s grievance cell or the RBI Ombudsman.
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Advocate Raziya

Adv. Raziya

LawRato Delhi | 5+ Answers
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Answer #2
527 votes
You do not need to visit physically if you have valid reasons to prove that can not visit over there, I can understand your problem, pls do connect with me I can help you in your case , I am practising in delhi court and I am advocate
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Advocate Deepak Ranjan

Adv. Deepak Ranjan

LawRatoDelhi | 25+ Answers
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Answer #3
808 votes
it seems that the banks demand for you to personally visit the branch is a bit excessive. however I am not sure as to the type of bank that you are dealing with whether it is a private bank or a nationalised bank. in any case if the bank refuses to accept your KYC, civil courts can be approached for filing a suit for declaration should you have any queries please feel free to contact me
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Advocate Kunal Seth

Adv. Kunal Seth

LawRatoDelhi | 700+ Answers
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