IFSCA Mandates AML/CFT Certification for Designated Directors and Principal Officers

Circular No. e.F. No.IFSCA-DAC/8/2024-AMLCFT, Dated: 17.11.2025

1. Background

The International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) has issued a directive requiring mandatory certification for key personnel responsible for compliance under the IFSCA (Anti-Money Laundering, Combating the Financing of Terrorism and Know Your Customer) Guidelines.

This step aims to strengthen the AML/CFT governance framework across financial institutions operating in IFSCs.

2. Mandatory Certification Requirement

All Designated Directors and Principal Officers appointed under the AML/CFT/KYC Guidelines are now required to undergo the specialised certification titled:

“NISM-IFSCA-01 – Certification on AML/CFT”

This certification:

• Has been jointly developed by the National Institute of Securities Markets (NISM) and the IFSCA Academy,
• Is tailored to provide comprehensive knowledge on AML/CFT obligations, risk assessment, reporting standards, and regulatory expectations within the IFSC ecosystem.

3. Availability and Timeline

• The certification will be available from 18 November 2025,
• All existing Designated Directors and Principal Officers must complete the certification within four months from the launch date,
• Newly appointed individuals must complete the certification within four months from their date of appointment.

4. Purpose of the Mandate

The requirement is intended to:

• Enhance technical competence of senior compliance officers,
• Promote consistent and high-quality AML/CFT practices,
• Strengthen regulatory adherence across entities supervised by IFSCA, and
• Support India’s alignment with global standards, including FATF recommendations.

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