Setting Up Payment Service Providers (PSPs) in GIFT City IFSCA

Last Updated on: 17th June 2025, 01:20 pm

Overview of GIFT City and IFSC

What is GIFT City and the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC)?

GIFT City (Gujarat International Finance Tec-City) in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, is a world-class financial hub offering cutting-edge infrastructure for businesses in sectors like banking, insurance, and asset management. The International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) within GIFT City facilitates global financial transactions by providing tax benefits, regulatory flexibility, and access to international markets.

Strategic Importance of Setting Up PSPs in GIFT IFSC for Businesses

Setting up Payment Service Providers (PSPs) in GIFT IFSC offers significant advantages:

1. Regulatory Ease

• Governed by IFSCA, GIFT IFSC provides a streamlined regulatory process, ensuring global compliance with reduced complexities.
  

2. Tax Benefits

• Income tax exemptions, GST relief, and other financial incentives make GIFT IFSC a cost-effective location for PSPs.
  

3. Access to Global Markets

• PSPs can serve cross-border clients as well as Indian clients looking to remit funds abroad, facilitating international transactions and expanding their global reach.
  

4. Advanced Infrastructure

• State-of-the-art facilities and innovative technologies like tech platforms and AI-powered payment systems support PSP operations.
  

5. Quick and Efficient Setup

• A simplified setup process allows PSPs to begin operations quickly, with minimal regulatory hurdles.

Understanding Payment Service Providers (PSPs)

What are Payment Service Providers (PSPs)?

Payment Service Providers (PSPs) are companies that facilitate the processing of financial transactions between buyers and sellers. PSPs enable businesses and individuals to send and receive payments through various platforms, such as websites, mobile apps, or point-of-sale terminals. These providers play a crucial role in the financial ecosystem by offering a secure, reliable, and efficient way to transfer money and conduct transactions.

Role of PSPs in the Global and Indian Financial Ecosystem

PSPs are integral to both the global and Indian financial systems, enabling businesses to accept payments from customers worldwide. The role of PSPs includes:

• Facilitating cross-border payments: PSPs bridge the gap between different countries and currencies, allowing businesses to engage in international trade and customers to make payments seamlessly.
• Driving digital payments growth: With the shift to digital platforms, PSPs are central to enabling online transactions, particularly in the context of cross border remittances, escrow services, etc.
  

PSPs are essential for extending India’s digital payment revolution at a global stage, considering the success of platforms like Google Pay, PhonePe, and Paytm which has led to a surge in online transactions domestically..

Different Types of PSPs

PSPs come in various forms, each offering a specific set of services to meet the needs of businesses and consumers. Here are the primary types:

1. Cross border Remittance Service Providers
   • Definition: Cross border Remittance service providers enable cross-border money transfers, helping individuals send money to their families or businesses to transfer payments internationally.
     
2. E-money issuance Services
   • Definition: E–money issuance services allow users to store, send, and receive funds digitally. These platforms can be used for online shopping, bill payments, and peer-to-peer transfers.
     
3. Merchant Acquisition services
   • Definition: Merchant acquisition services the processing of card payments for businesses. They enable businesses to accept payments via credit or debit cards through Point-of-Sale (POS) systems or online payment systems.
     
4. Escrow Services
   • Definition: These are services where a third party holds funds in a secure account until the transaction conditions are met.
     

Significant Payment Service Providers (SPSPs)

Significant Payment Service Providers (SPSPs) are entities that have a major impact on the market, either due to their size, scale, or operational reach. These PSPs are subject to stricter compliance and oversight standards to ensure that their operations remain transparent and secure.

Conditions for PSPs to be Designated as Significant PSPs:

Criteria	Condition	Threshold
Payment Services	The PSP must provide one or more payment services (excluding e-money account issuance service)	$2 million (for one service) or $4 million (for two or more services)
E-money Account Issuance Service	If the provider offers e-money account issuance	Average daily value of all e-money stored exceeds $3 million
E-money Issuance Service	If the provider offers e-money issuance service	Average daily value of e-money issued exceeds $3 million

Note:

• All thresholds are calculated based on averages over a calendar year.
• The values are measured in Specified Foreign Currency.
  

Regular Payment Service Providers (RPSPs)

Regular Payment Service Providers (RPSPs) are entities that offer designated payment services but do not meet the criteria to be classified as significant PSPs. These providers contribute to the financial ecosystem by offering various payment services but do not have the same level of operational impact as significant PSPs.

Eligible Activities of RPSPs:

• Account Issuance Service (including e-money account issuance)
• E-money Issuance Service
• Escrow Service
• Cross-Border Money Transfer Service
• Merchant Acquisition Service

RPSPs can still play a pivotal role in the economy by enabling small to medium-sized businesses to accept payments digitally and offer financial services in niche markets.

Net worth 

Type of Provider	Initial Net Worth Requirement	Net Worth Requirement by 3rd Financial Year
Regular Payment Service Provider	Regular Payment Service ProviderUSD 100,000 (or equivalent in a specified foreign currency)	USD 200,000 (or equivalent in a specified foreign currency)
Significant Payment Service Provider	USD 250,000 (or equivalent in a specified foreign currency)	USD 500,000 (or equivalent in a specified foreign currency)

Steps for Setting Up Payment Service Providers (PSPs) in GIFT City 2025

Setting up a Payment Service Provider (PSP) in GIFT City involves a structured process with several steps. Each step is crucial for ensuring legal compliance and operational readiness. This guide outlines the steps involved in setting up a PSP in GIFT City, starting from engaging with regulators to commencing operations.

Pre-Registration Process

1. Discuss Use Case with Regulators
   • Initial Consultation: Before applying, businesses must first discuss their use case with the regulators, ensuring that the business model complies with GIFT City’s regulatory framework. Engaging with regulators early ensures that the proposed operations align with the requirements set by the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA).
     
2. Name Reservation for New Company
   • Legal Requirements for Name Registration: The name must be unique and should not conflict with existing entities. It should also align with GIFT City’s branding guidelines.
     
   • Steps to Reserve a Company Name in GIFT City:
     • Choose a Name: Select a name that reflects your business type and aligns with the brand of GIFT City.
     • Apply Online: Submit your application via the SWIT portal (GIFT City’s official registration platform).
     • Approval: Once approved, the name will be reserved for a specified period during which company incorporation must be completed.
       
3. Premises Allotment and Issuance of PLOA (Possession Letter of Allotment)
   • Role of SEZ Developer: The SEZ developer plays a crucial role in providing the land and premises within GIFT City. They will assist in the allocation of office space and ensure the property adheres to SEZ regulations.
     
   • How to Obtain PLOA in GIFT City:
     • Submit Application: Apply for office space allocation through the SEZ developer.
     • Document Submission: Provide necessary documents such as your company’s incorporation certificate and proof of address.
     • Receive PLOA: Once approved, you will receive the Possession Letter of Allotment (PLOA), confirming your right to occupy the premises.
       
4. Incorporation of the Company
   • Legal Structure for Setting Up a PSP: Most PSPs opt for a Private Limited Company or Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) as the legal structure.
     
   • Essential Documents Required:
     • Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA)
     • Identity and address proofs of directors
     • Business plan outlining the services offered
     • PLOA from the SEZ developer
       

Application and Approval Process

1. Application Before SEZ (IFSCA Admin) and IFSCA via SWIT Portal
   • Detailed Explanation of the Application Procedure:
     • Submit Application: Submit the detailed application via the SWIT portal, describing your business and the proposed PSP operations.
     • Application Form: Provide information about your company, key personnel, business structure, and services.
     • Key Documents Required:
       • Company incorporation certificate
       • PLOA
       • Business plan and financial details
       • KYC details for directors and shareholders
         
2. Review and Grant of In-Principle Approval
   • What is In-Principle Approval, and Why is it Crucial?: In-principle approval is a preliminary step by IFSCA that confirms the initial acceptance of the business model and operations plan, moving the application closer to final approval.
     
   • Timeline and Expected Steps Post-Approval:
     • Approval Timeline: The in-principle approval process typically takes 4 to 6 weeks.
     • Post-Approval Steps: After obtaining in-principle approval, businesses must meet certain regulatory requirements to advance to the final approval stage.
       

Final Approval and Certification

1. Complying with IFSCA Conditions for Final Approval
   • Key Conditions to Be Met for Final Certification:
     • Ensure compliance with all IFSCA regulatory requirements.
     • Submit final documentation, including tax filings, operational plans, and internal controls.
       
   • Role of IFSCA in Ensuring Compliance: IFSCA conducts thorough checks to ensure that your company complies with financial, operational, and data security regulations.
     
2. Granting of Certificate of Authorisation (Final Approval)
   
   • What Does the Certificate of Authorisation Signify?: The Certificate of Authorisation signifies that the PSP is fully authorized to operate within GIFT City under IFSCA’s regulations.
     
   • Post-Approval Steps and Timelines: Upon receiving the Certificate of Authorisation, PSPs can begin their operations. However, they must meet final operational readiness checks within six months.
     

PSP Operation Commencement in GIFT City

1. Commencing Operations Within Six Months
   
   • Overview of Operational Readiness: After final approval, PSPs must ensure that all operational infrastructure, such as payment systems and customer support, is set up and functioning.
     
   • Final Checklist for Beginning PSP Services in GIFT City:
     • Install technology infrastructure (payment gateways, security systems, etc.)
     • Set up a local team for operations and customer service
     • Test payment systems and security protocols
     • Complete all legal and tax registrations to comply with GIFT City regulations

Payment Service Providers(PSPs) Regulation in GIFT City

Regulatory Framework for Payment Service Providers in GIFT City

GIFT City offers a comprehensive regulatory framework designed to support Payment Service Providers (PSPs), governed by the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA). This framework aims to foster innovation while ensuring PSPs comply with global standards for financial services.

IFSCA Regulatory Guidelines for PSPs

• Overview of IFSC Regulations for PSPs:
  • IFSCA provides a flexible yet robust regulatory structure for PSPs, offering a favorable environment for businesses engaged in payments, remittance services, e-wallets, and digital financial services.
  • The regulations are tailored to ensure that PSPs operate efficiently, with a focus on financial integrity, consumer protection, and market stability.
    

Key Compliance Requirements for PSPs in GIFT City

PSPs must meet specific compliance obligations to operate in GIFT City:

• Know Your Customer (KYC): PSPs must implement strict KYC protocols to verify the identities of customers and prevent fraud.
• Anti-Money Laundering (AML): PSPs are required to have measures in place to detect and prevent money laundering activities.
• Data Security: Compliance with data protection laws is essential, ensuring customer data is secure and transactions are protected.
• Operational Requirements: PSPs must establish robust financial systems to handle transactions, settlements, and reconciliations efficiently.
  

Payment Service Providers’ Operational Requirements

• Mandatory Licenses and Registrations:
  • PSPs must obtain licenses from IFSCA to provide payment services, including remittance and digital wallet operations.
    
• Ongoing Compliance and Reporting Obligations:
  • PSPs in GIFT City must adhere to ongoing reporting and audit requirements, including regular financial disclosures, compliance reports, and updates on operations.
  • Regular inspections by IFSCA ensure that PSPs remain compliant with all regulatory standards.
    

Tax Benefits for PSPs in GIFT City

One of the most attractive aspects of setting up a PSP in GIFT City is the tax incentives and financial benefits that businesses can leverage. These incentives are designed to encourage growth, innovation, and investment within the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC).

Tax Incentives in GIFT IFSC

• Income Tax Exemptions and Deductions Available for PSPs:
  • 100% Income Tax Exemption for any ten consecutive years out of first fifteen years of operation
  • GST Exemption on services provided within GIFT IFSC and abroad.
    
• Other Financial and Operational Incentives:
  • No Minimum Tax: PSPs operating in GIFT City are not subject to minimum taxes, enhancing profitability where the PSPs are opting for a beneficial taxation regime.
  • Customs Duty Exemptions: Businesses can import equipment and technology needed for payment processing without incurring customs duties subject to conditions.
    

FEMA Compliance and Guidelines for PSPs in GIFT IFSC

• Cross-Border Financial Regulations for PSPs:
  • FEMA (Foreign Exchange Management Act) ensures that cross-border transactions adhere to India’s foreign exchange guidelines, enabling PSPs to process international payments smoothly.
  • PSPs must comply with IFSC regulations and FEMA guidelines when dealing with foreign currency transactions and international money transfers pertaining to resident indians.
    
• Foreign Exchange Management for International Transactions:
  • PSPs are required to manage foreign exchange operations in compliance with FEMA regulations, ensuring that foreign currency transactions are handled efficiently and securely.
  • PSPs in GIFT IFSC can offer foreign exchange services for global transactions, remittances, and cross-border payments with fewer regulatory barriers compared to other regions in India.

Minimum Net Worth Requirements

The net worth requirements for Payment Service Providers (PSPs) in GIFT IFSC depend on whether they are classified as a Regular or Significant PSP.

Category	Minimum Net Worth Requirement	Timeline
Regular PSP	₹8,200,000 (on commencement)	At start of operations
	₹16,400,000 (by end of the third financial year)	By March 31 (third year)
Significant PSP	₹20,500,000 (within 90 days of designation)	Within 90 days of designation
	₹41,000,000 (by end of the third financial year)	By March 31 (third year)

Regulatory Fees for PSPs in GIFT IFSC

IFSCA Fees

Particulars	Regular PSP	Significant PSP	Payment System Operators (PSO)
Application Fees (One-Time)	USD 1000	USD 1000	USD 1000
Authorization Fees	USD 25,000 (One-Time)	USD 25,000 (One-Time)	(a) Real time or deferred large value payment system – USD 15,000(b) Trade Repository – USD 5,000(c) Issuers of Legal Entity Identifier (LEI) – USD 10,000(d) Card Payment Networks – USD 15,000(e) TREDS platforms authorised under the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007 – USD 5,000(f) Any Other – USD 15,000
Recurring Fees	USD 5,000 (Annual)	USD 10,000 (Annual)	(a). Real time or deferred large value payment system – USD 10,000(b). Trade Repository – USD 5,000(c). Issuers of Legal Entity Identifier (LEI) – USD 5,000(d). Card Payment Networks – USD 15,000(e). TREDS platforms authorised under the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007 – USD 10,000(f). Any Other – USD 10,000 Note: All the fees mentioned above is on annual basis

SEZ Authorities’ Fees

Particulars	Amount (INR)
Application Fees (One-Time)	₹5,000
Registration Fees (One-Time)	₹25,000
Recurring Fees (Annual)	₹5,000

These net worth requirements and regulatory fees ensure that PSPs in GIFT IFSC are financially stable and compliant with local regulations.

Main Functions of Payment Service Providers (PSPs)

Payment Service Providers (PSPs) play a critical role in enabling businesses to accept payments and manage financial transactions. Their main functions include:

• Payment Processing: Facilitates businesses and merchants in receiving payments via credit and debit cards from customers.
• Global Transactions: Ensures safe, efficient, and cost-effective international transactions, solidifying GIFT City as a key fintech hub.
• Digital Wallets & Prepaid Cards: Provides consumers with digital wallets and prepaid cards to carry, send, and spend virtual money seamlessly.
  

Pre-Requisites for PSPs in GIFT IFSC

Before applying for approval in GIFT City, PSPs must meet the following requirements:

1. Infrastructure: Adequate office space, equipment, and communication facilities within the GIFT City investment zone.
2. Net Worth: Must satisfy the financial net worth criteria.
3. Financial Soundness: Applicants must demonstrate financial stability and meet fit and proper requirements.
4. Authorization History: The applicant or its affiliates must not have been denied authorization in the past.
5. Relevant Experience: The applicant’s team must have adequate experience, including previous authorizations for similar services.

Benefits of Setting Up Payment Service Providers in GIFT City

Tax and Legal Benefits

Tax Benefits for PSPs in GIFT City

Setting up a Payment Service Provider (PSP) in GIFT City offers significant tax benefits under the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) framework:

• Income Tax Exemption: PSPs are eligible for a 100% income tax exemption for any 10 consecutive years out of the first 15 years of operation.
• GST Benefits: Services rendered to entities within the GIFT IFSC or to clients outside India are exempt from GST.
• No Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT): PSPs in GIFT City are not subject to minimum tax provisions, allowing them to fully leverage the favorable tax structure and maximize profitability.
  

Legal Framework for PSPs in GIFT IFSC

• Simplified Legal Processes: The legal processes in GIFT City are designed to be business-friendly, with reduced red tape for PSPs.
• Ease of Doing Business: The IFSCA ensures a smooth regulatory environment, making it easier for PSPs to comply with legal requirements and start operations swiftly.
  

Access to Global Financial Markets

Global Market Connectivity

• Leverage GIFT City for International Integration: PSPs in GIFT City can easily integrate into global financial markets, facilitating cross-border transactions and serving international clients.
• Serving International Clients: GIFT City offers international connectivity, enabling PSPs to tap into global markets and increase their clientele.

Reduced Operational Costs and Time Efficiency

• Cost-Effectiveness: Establishing a PSP in GIFT City is more affordable compared to other locations, thanks to tax incentives and operational savings.
• Streamlined Operations: The operational procedures in GIFT City are designed for speed and efficiency, ensuring that businesses can start quickly and scale easily.