Regulator mulls single window check-in for foreign investors

Discussions held with RBI, I-T dept and tax consultants; observers say time ripe for such a move

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) is working on a plan to ease entry norms for foreign investors.
 
According to sources, it might grant a single-window clearance mechanism, without having to get separate approvals from various regulatory bodies.  This is after representations and is aimed at easing the process of foreign portfolio investor (FPI) registration at the time of account opening.
 
At present, an investor from abroad needs clearances from Sebi, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the income tax (I-T) department. The process takes at least 45-50 days. Issuance and verification of a PAN