In January 2026, SEBI introduced the “Single Window Automatic and Generalised Access for Trusted Foreign Investors (SWAGAT-FI)” framework. The SWAGAT-FI framework is designed to streamline access for foreign investors by enabling a unified and automatic registration mechanism across multiple investment routes, thereby reducing procedural complexity. This piece of legislation makes it easier for foreign venture capital investors (FVCIs) and foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) to access the Indian market by providing an automated system for registration and KYC. This is a major overhaul of the existing Indian legislation regarding cross-border investments, as it waives the requirement for multiple filings with different intermediaries, enabling “Trusted Investors” to obtain operational approval within 48 hours. It will be effective from June 1, 2026, the framework is expected to significantly reduce compliance burdens while strengthening India’s capital market ecosystem.
