20 July 2025
Here's a clear explanation about registration of a CA firm with RBI after online submission of MEF (Member Enrolment Form):
1. What is MEF? MEF (Member Enrolment Form) is the online form submitted by CA firms to the ICAI (Institute of Chartered Accountants of India) as part of their process to be empanelled with RBI for statutory audits.
2. Procedure after submitting MEF online Submit MEF online on ICAI portal with all required documents and fees. ICAI processes the MEF and compiles a list of eligible firms who have met the criteria prescribed by RBI. ICAI sends the list of eligible firms to the RBI every year (usually annually). 3. Registration with RBI The actual registration or empanelment with RBI is done by the RBI itself based on the list provided by ICAI. RBI does not require separate application from CA firms; it empanels firms based on ICAI’s recommendations. Once empanelled, the firm will be eligible for appointment as statutory auditors of banks. 4. Is submission of MEF enough? Yes, submission of MEF online along with supporting documents and fees to ICAI is sufficient. ICAI handles the verification and sends the list to RBI. No direct application to RBI is required by the CA firm. Summary: Step Responsibility MEF submission online CA Firm Verification and compilation ICAI Forwarding eligible firms list ICAI to RBI Empanelment RBI