IRDAI has introduced new rules that will shape how insurance intermediaries operate and report. Two of the most notable rules include the mandatory disclosure of the Point-of-Sale Agent and a reduced renewal burden. Both rules are different, yet have the potential to transform the insurance distribution network. This article takes a closer look at these rules and how they influence the insurance sector.
What are IRDAI’s new rules all about?
IRDAI has introduced the IRDAI (Registration of Insurance Intermediaries) (Amendment) Regulations, 2026[1], which bring transformative changes to strengthen the insurance sector. These changes will influence
- How insurance intermediaries maintain transparency, especially when it comes to selling and managing policies.
- Renewal of insurance intermediaries
The implementation of these changes will help intermediaries to align with the Sakha Bima Sabki Rakha (SSR) Act.
What is meant by disclosing the details of a point-of-sale agent?
The new rules mandate intermediaries to tag an authorized salesperson to every policy and insurance certificate. This way, the IRDAI will have access to a record of every sale and the policies sold to consumers. This will significantly boost accountability on the intermediary’s part, mandating that they protect consumers’ interests. This will also reduce mis-selling or customer grievances, which, in turn, makes the intermediaries more productive and efficient.
What about perpetual registration under new rules?
New rules have gotten rid of the existing renewal system that was complex, redundant, and prone to red tape, increasing the compliance burden for insurance intermediaries. The new rules have eased the process by allowing companies to stay registered by paying a prescribed fee and maintaining compliance. This specific rule will boost the ease of doing business.
What else has changed with the new rules?
IRDAI, with its new set of rules, wants intermediaries, including brokers, agents, and aggregators, to align themselves with revised governance requirements, which also bring increased disclosure.
How exactly will new rules transform the insurance distribution network?
- The new rules will make all intermediaries answerable for the sales and service of each insurance product
- Selling fabricated or illegal products will be practically impossible, as IRDAI will continuously track the company’s salespeople and sales trails.
- Renewal will become seamless and swift, allowing intermediaries to focus on core tasks
These rules are geared toward the betterment of the insurance sector while ensuring protection for policyholders. The intermediaries will become more transparent about how they proceed with the marketing and sale of insurance products, allowing the IRDAI to have better oversight of who is selling what and when.
Also Read: How to obtain a General Insurance Broker License in India
Frequently asked questions
1. Do new rules apply to the insurance marketing firm (IMF)
Yes, IMFs do fall under the ambit of these rules
2. When should intermediaries implement these changes?
As soon as possible, but IRDAI has provided a dedicated timeline for hassle-free implementation.
3. Will these rules backfire or reduce sales?
No, not for legitimate, compliant intermediaries.
4. What if the company ignores these changes?
The consequences will be harsh, including steep monetary penalties and cancellation of a license
5. What is the professional way to adopt these changes quickly?
You can contact Advisou for post-registration compliance
