NPS Vatsalya (pension account for children)
Start with₹1,000
Minimum per year₹1,000
EligibleChildren below 18
Who runs the accountParent/guardian
⚠️ Withdrawal and annuity rules were inconsistent on one page (80% vs 40%). Check the latest FAQ on npstrust.org.in before opening.
What is the scheme?
In NPS Vatsalya a parent or guardian opens an NPS account in the name of a child below 18. At 18 the account can convert into a normal NPS account in the child's name.
Key benefits
- Account can be opened with just ₹1,000, with no upper limit
- Long-term savings and pension for the child
- At 18, conversion to an NPS Tier-I All Citizen account or another scheme
Eligibility – who can apply
- Indian, NRI and OCI children below 18
- The account is opened and run by the parent/guardian, the child is the sole beneficiary
Who is not eligible / things to note
- People aged 18 or more
- Those who do not make the minimum yearly contribution
Documents required
- Guardian's KYC (Aadhaar/PAN)
- Child's birth certificate or age proof
- Bank account details
- Photo
How to apply (step by step)
- On the eNPS website choose NPS Vatsalya (Minors) and click 'Register Now'
- Verify the guardian by OTP and fill in the child's and guardian's details
- Pay ₹1,000 and authenticate by OTP/eSign; a PRAN is issued in the child's name
- Or visit a major bank, India Post or a PFRDA-registered centre
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum to deposit?
₹1,000 to open and at least ₹1,000 each year.
Can money be withdrawn before 18?
Limited partial withdrawal (up to 25% of contributions, for reasons like education or serious illness) is allowed after 3 years, as reported.
What happens at 18?
The account becomes a normal NPS account in the child's name and fresh KYC is required within three months.
Beware: Do not pay any agent or website in the name of applying for a government scheme. Applying on the official portal is generally free. Do not share OTP, PIN or confidential bank details with anyone.