How to Transfer Shares from CDSL to NSDL Offline: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

22 December 2025 ·

A Detailed Guide to Offline Inter-Depository Share Transfer from CDSL to NSDL

Introduction

Investors often maintain demat accounts with different brokers, some registered with CDSL and others with NSDL. When you change brokers or consolidate holdings, you may need to understand how to transfer shares from CDSL to NSDL offline.

While online facilities like MyEasiest exist, offline transfer remains relevant in cases where online access is unavailable, restricted, or not activated. This guide explains the complete offline process in a clear, step-by-step manner.

Understanding CDSL and NSDL

India has two depositories:

CDSL (Central Depository Services Limited)

NSDL (National Securities Depository Limited)

Both hold securities in electronic form, but they operate independently. A transfer between them is known as an inter-depository transfer.

When Do You Need to Transfer Shares from CDSL to NSDL Offline

You may need offline transfer in the following situations:

Your new broker operates only on NSDL

MyEasiest or online transfer is not enabled

Joint account restrictions exist

Large-value transfers requiring physical authorisation

Account closure or compliance-driven transfers

In such cases, knowing how to transfer shares from CDSL to NSDL offline becomes essential.

Online vs Offline CDSL to NSDL Transfer

Online transfer methods are faster, but offline transfers are still widely used.

Offline transfer is preferred when:

Digital authentication fails

Investor prefers physical documentation

Broker mandates DIS for inter-depository transfers

Prerequisites Before Initiating Offline Transfer

Before starting the process, ensure:

Both demat accounts are active

Shares are free and not pledged

ISINs are identical in both depositories

Beneficiary NSDL account details are correct

You have a valid CDSL DIS booklet

Without these, the transfer may be rejected.

What Is a Delivery Instruction Slip (DIS)

A Delivery Instruction Slip (DIS) is a physical form provided by your CDSL Depository Participant. It authorises debit of shares from your CDSL demat account.

For inter-depository transfers, DIS is mandatory in offline mode.

Step-by-Step Process: How to Transfer Shares from CDSL to NSDL Offline

Below is the complete step-by-step explanation of how to transfer shares from CDSL to NSDL offline.

Step 1: Obtain DIS from Your CDSL Broker

Collect a valid DIS slip from your CDSL broker if you do not already have one.

Ensure:

Slip is unused

Serial number is intact

Linked to your demat account

Step 2: Fill Execution Date

Mention the date on which you want the transfer to be executed.

Avoid holidays

Avoid post-dated slips unless allowed

Step 3: Enter CDSL DP ID and Client ID

Fill in your:

DP ID (CDSL)

Client ID

These details represent your source demat account.

Step 4: Select Inter-Depository Transfer

Clearly mention or tick:

“Inter-Depository Transfer”

“Off-Market Transfer”

This is crucial for CDSL to NSDL movement.

Step 5: Fill ISIN and Quantity

For each security:

Enter correct ISIN

Mention exact number of shares

Only free and unlocked shares can be transferred.

Step 6: Enter Target NSDL Account Details

Carefully fill:

Target DP ID (NSDL)

Target Client ID

Double-check these details, as errors can cause rejection or delays.

Step 7: Mention Reason for Transfer

Examples include:

Own account transfer

Broker change

Account consolidation

This is often required for regulatory clarity.

Step 8: Sign the DIS Slip

Sign exactly as per records.

Joint holders must all sign

Signature mismatch leads to rejection

Step 9: Submit DIS to CDSL Broker

Submit the filled DIS:

In person at broker office

Or via courier (as per broker policy)

Keep acknowledgment or receipt for tracking.

How to Fill DIS for CDSL to NSDL Transfer

Key points while filling DIS:

Use black or blue ink only

Do not overwrite

Do not use correction fluid

Write legibly

Cross-check beneficiary details

Most rejections occur due to incorrect filling.

Timeline for CDSL to NSDL Offline Transfer

Typical timeline:

DIS submission: Day 0

DP verification: 1–2 working days

Debit from CDSL & credit to NSDL: 3–5 working days

Offline transfers take longer than online transfers.

Charges Involved in Offline Inter-Depository Transfer

Charges depend on the broker and DP.

Common charges include:

Inter-depository transfer fee

DP transaction charges

Handling or processing fees

Always check the broker’s tariff sheet in advance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these frequent errors:

Wrong ISIN

Incorrect NSDL DP ID

Quantity mismatch

Missing signatures

Submitting blank signed DIS

Even small mistakes can delay the transfer significantly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Is offline transfer mandatory for CDSL to NSDL?

No, online methods exist, but offline is used when online is unavailable.

Q2. Can I cancel an offline DIS after submission?

Generally, no once processing begins.

Q3. Are ISINs same in CDSL and NSDL?

Yes, ISIN remains identical across depositories.

Q4. How do I confirm transfer completion?

Check demat statement of NSDL account.

Q5. Is offline transfer safe?

Yes, if DIS is filled and submitted correctly.

Conclusion

Knowing how to transfer shares from CDSL to NSDL offline is essential for investors changing brokers or consolidating demat accounts. While digital options are faster, offline transfer remains a reliable and widely accepted method when done carefully.

By following the correct DIS filling process, double-checking beneficiary details, and adhering to broker guidelines, investors can ensure a smooth inter-depository share transfer without complications.