Who qualifies today
- Individuals, HUFs, family trusts and sole proprietors: income of ₹2 crore or more, or net worth of ₹7.5 crore (with ₹3.75 crore in financial assets), or ₹1 crore income plus ₹5 crore net worth.
- Body corporates and non-family trusts: net worth of ₹50 crore or more.
- Certificates issued by accreditation agencies set up by exchanges and depositories.
What the board approved
- Market-exposure route: qualify with securities-market exposure of at least ₹5 crore (individuals, HUFs, family trusts, sole proprietors) or ₹20 crore (body corporates and other trusts).
- Non-residents and FPIs deemed accredited — a big change for NRI angels.
- Manager-led accreditation: managers of AIFs, PMS and specialised investment funds can accredit their own investors.
- LLPs qualify if every partner is accredited; accreditation valid for three years and portable within a group.
Also approved
- Trust-style investor protection extended to AIFs in every legal form.
- New PMS Regulations 2026 — including IPO investing and foreign securities under LRS.
When it applies
These are board approvals. They take effect only once SEBI notifies the amended regulations and circulars — until then, the existing criteria apply.
What it means
- Angel funds — which since September 2025 can take only accredited investors — get a much bigger pool once NRIs are deemed accredited. See angel fund rules.
- AIFs can onboard accredited investors below the ₹1 crore minimum — see SEBI AIF registration.
- Launching a fund? See VC and AIF fund setup.
Frequently asked questions
Are NRIs accredited investors under SEBI rules?
SEBI's board approved on 24 September 2026 that persons resident outside India, including FPIs, will be deemed accredited investors. It applies once the amended regulations are notified.
What is the new ₹5 crore route for accredited investors?
Individuals, HUFs, family trusts and sole proprietors with securities-market exposure of at least ₹5 crore would qualify (₹20 crore for body corporates and other trusts), once notified.
Why does accredited investor status matter?
Accredited investors can invest in AIFs with no minimum ticket, are the only investors allowed in SEBI angel funds, and can access large value funds.
Please note: this guide is general information based on the rules as they stood on the review date above. Regulations and RBI/CBDT procedures change often — please get advice on your specific facts before acting.