REVEALED: SEBI’s New Certification Courses Could Transform How India Fights Financial Crime
Aditi Chaurasia
12/03/2025
Table of Contents
In a significant move to strengthen India’s financial regulatory framework, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has unveiled new specialized certification courses focused on Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Combating Financing of Terrorism (CFT). This development comes amid growing global concerns about financial crimes and regulatory compliance.
Key Highlights
- SEBI introduces dedicated certification courses on AML and CFT for financial sector professionals
- Courses aim to enhance compliance standards and detection capabilities within regulated entities
- Certifications will become mandatory for designated professionals by 2026
- Training will cover risk assessment, due diligence procedures, and suspicious transaction reporting
Eligibility Criteria
SEBI has outlined specific eligibility requirements for professionals seeking these certifications:
- Employees working in compliance, risk management, or audit departments of SEBI-regulated entities
- Minimum educational qualification of graduation in any discipline
- At least two years of experience in the financial sector
- No prior disciplinary actions related to financial misconduct
Course Structure and Examination Pattern
The certification programs have been structured to provide comprehensive training on international best practices and Indian regulatory requirements.
Application Process
Interested professionals can apply through the following steps:
- Visit the official SEBI website (www.sebi.gov.in)
- Navigate to the “Certification & Training” section
- Complete the online application form
- Upload required documents (ID proof, educational qualifications, experience certificates)
- Pay the examination fee (₹5,000 for AML, ₹4,500 for CFT)
- Schedule examination date and center
Implementation Timeline
SEBI has announced a phased implementation approach:
- Phase 1 (June 2025): Voluntary certification period begins
- Phase 2 (January 2026): Certification becomes mandatory for senior compliance professionals
- Phase 3 (July 2026): Extended to all eligible employees in designated roles
Expert Opinion
Financial crime experts have welcomed SEBI’s initiative, suggesting these specialized certifications will significantly improve the capability of Indian financial institutions to detect and prevent money laundering and terrorism financing.
“This is a much-needed step toward aligning India’s financial sector with global standards,” commented a senior compliance officer at a leading financial institution. “The specialized focus on AML and CFT will help professionals develop the technical expertise needed to combat increasingly sophisticated financial crimes.”
FAQs
Q: Are these certifications replacing existing NISM certifications? A: No, these are additional specialized certifications focused specifically on AML and CFT compliance.
Q: Can professionals based outside India apply for these certifications? A: Yes, professionals working for Indian entities or subsidiaries abroad can apply.
Q: Is there an exemption for professionals with existing international AML certifications? A: SEBI is evaluating equivalence with international certifications. Announcements are expected soon.
Q: What happens if designated professionals fail to obtain certification by the deadline? A: Non-compliance may result in regulatory action against both individuals and their employing entities.
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