Introduction: Switching from Upstox to Zerodha? Here’s the Safe Way
Many investors eventually decide to move their holdings from Upstox to Zerodha — often for Zerodha’s advanced charting tools, Kite’s smoother interface, or simply to consolidate their investments. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to sell your shares to make the switch.
Instead of going through the hassle of selling and repurchasing stocks (which can trigger capital gains tax and brokerage fees), you can directly transfer shares from Upstox to Zerodha — quickly, securely, and at zero cost.
Whether you’re looking to migrate your full portfolio or just a few stocks, this step-by-step guide explains how to move your shares from one Demat to another using two reliable methods:
CDSL Easiest (online)
DIS Slip (offline)
Let’s begin with the basics — is this transfer really possible without selling?
Can You Transfer Shares from Upstox to Zerodha Without Selling?
Yes, absolutely. You can transfer shares directly from your Upstox Demat account to your Zerodha Demat account without selling them.
This is known as an off-market transfer, and it’s completely legal, secure, and does not attract capital gains tax since there is no sale involved.
When you transfer shares from one Demat to another under the same PAN (for example, from your Upstox account to your Zerodha account), it is considered a non-commercial transfer. This means:
- No tax is triggered
- No brokerage is charged
- Your average buy price and holding period remain unchanged in Zerodha
- You retain all your stocks in the new Demat
To do this, you can use either:
- CDSL Easiest (an online platform provided by CDSL for secure share transfers between two CDSL-linked Demat accounts), or
- A physical DIS slip issued by Upstox, if you prefer the offline route.
Let’s begin with the faster and more convenient method — CDSL Easiest.
Method 1: How to Transfer Shares from Upstox to Zerodha Using CDSL Easiest (Online Method)
The CDSL Easiest platform allows you to transfer shares digitally between two Demat accounts — both registered with CDSL — without any paperwork or charges. Since both Upstox and Zerodha are CDSL depository participants, this is the fastest and most convenient method.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to complete the transfer:
🔹 Step 1: Register on CDSL Easiest with Upstox
- Visit https://web.cdslindia.com/myeasitoken/Home/Login
- Click “To Register for Easiest”
- Choose ‘Trusted Account (for off-market transfers)’
- Enter your Upstox 16-digit BO ID (Demat account number)
- Fill in your details and set a username/password
- Submit the registration request

🔹 Step 2: Wait for Upstox to Approve Your Registration
- Upstox will verify and approve your registration, usually within 24–48 working hours
- You’ll get an email and SMS confirmation when your account is activated
🔹 Step 3: Add Zerodha as a Trusted Demat Account
Once you’re logged into CDSL Easiest:
- Go to ‘Miscellaneous’ → ‘Trusted Account’
- Add your Zerodha BO ID (Demat number)
- Zerodha BO ID is a 16-digit number, available in the Kite app under Console → Profile → Demat
- Submit the request and wait for approval from CDSL and Zerodha
🔹 Step 4: Initiate the Share Transfer
- Log in to your CDSL Easiest account
- Go to ‘Transaction’ → ‘Setup’
- Select ‘Bulk Setup’
- Choose ‘Counter BO ID’ — your Zerodha Demat account
- Enter ISINs, quantity of shares, and reason for transfer (choose “Self” or “Own account”)
- Submit and verify via OTP or PIN
🔹 Step 5: Wait for the Shares to Reflect in Zerodha
- Your shares will be debited from your Upstox account and credited to your Zerodha account within 24 to 48 working hours
- You’ll receive alerts from CDSL confirming the movement
This method is 100% digital, free of cost, and requires no courier or paperwork.
Method 2: Transfer Shares from Upstox to Zerodha Using DIS Slip (Offline Method)
If you prefer a paper-based process or if your CDSL Easiest registration is delayed, you can still transfer shares from Upstox to Zerodha using a Delivery Instruction Slip (DIS) — the traditional way of transferring shares.
Here’s how it works:
🔹 Step 1: Request a DIS Booklet from Upstox
- Upstox doesn’t send DIS booklets by default.
- You need to raise a request through the app or support team to have a DIS slip couriered to your registered address.
🔹 Step 2: Fill in the DIS Slip Carefully
In the DIS slip, you’ll be asked to fill out:
- Your Upstox BO ID (pre-filled or available in the Upstox app)
- Zerodha DP ID: 12081600
- Zerodha Client ID: Your 8-digit Zerodha ID (available in Kite > Console > Profile)
- ISIN(s) of the shares you want to transfer
- Quantity of shares
- Reason for transfer: Write “Self” or “Own Account”
- Execution Date: Leave this blank if unsure — the broker will fill it
🔐 Make sure your signature matches Upstox records exactly to avoid rejection.
🔹 Step 3: Send the Filled DIS Slip to Upstox
- Courier the filled and signed slip to the Upstox head office address.
- Retain the tracking number until the transfer is complete.
🔹 Step 4: Wait for Confirmation
- It usually takes 5 to 7 working days for Upstox to process the DIS slip.
- Shares will then be credited to your Zerodha Demat account.
- You’ll receive SMS/email alerts from CDSL confirming the transfer.
While slower, this method is still safe and ideal if you prefer offline paperwork or face issues with CDSL Easiest.
Details You Need Before Starting the Transfer
Before you begin transferring shares from Upstox to Zerodha, make sure you have these details ready. This will help you avoid errors and delays:
🔸 1. Your Upstox BO ID
This is your 16-digit Demat account number with Upstox.
You’ll find it under:
Upstox App → Account → Profile → Depository Details
🔸 2. Your Zerodha BO ID
Zerodha’s Demat numbers start with 12081600, followed by your 8-digit Client ID.
Check it here:
Zerodha Kite → Console → Account → Demat
🔸 3. List of Stocks (ISINs) and Quantities
You’ll need the ISIN (International Securities Identification Number) for each stock you want to transfer.
Find ISINs using:
Groww, Upstox, or NSE website, or request a Demat Statement from Upstox.
🔸 4. Same PAN on Both Accounts
Ensure that your PAN is identical and verified in both Upstox and Zerodha accounts. This is required for off-market transfers.
🔸 5. Registered Mobile Number & Email
Both must be active and linked to your CDSL profile for OTP and alerts during the transfer process.
Once you have these, you’re ready to initiate the transfer — online or offline.
How Much Time Does It Take to Transfer Shares from Upstox to Zerodha?
The transfer timeline depends on the method you choose:
CDSL Easiest (Online Method)
- Processing Time: Typically 24 to 48 working hours after setup and OTP submission
- Best for: Fast, paperless, and hassle-free transfers
- Tip: Initiate your transfer before 5 PM on working days to avoid next-day processing
DIS Slip (Offline Method)
- Processing Time: Usually 5 to 7 working days after Upstox receives your signed slip
- Best for: Those who prefer physical forms or cannot access CDSL Easiest
- Tip: Make sure your signature matches Upstox’s records exactly to prevent delays
Both methods are safe and approved by CDSL. Choose based on your comfort and urgency.
Things to Keep in Mind to Ensure a Smooth Share Transfer from Upstox to Zerodha
When transferring shares from one Demat account to another — particularly from Upstox to Zerodha — it’s important to avoid common mistakes that may cause delays or rejections. Here are key points to ensure your transfer is smooth and successful:
- Verify BO IDs Carefully
Your 16-digit Demat account numbers (BO IDs) for Upstox and Zerodha must be entered accurately. Even a single incorrect digit can invalidate the transfer. - Ensure PAN Matches in Both Accounts
Your Permanent Account Number (PAN) must be identical across both accounts. Any mismatch, including differences in spacing or capitalization, may lead to rejection. - Use the Correct ISINs
Each stock has a unique ISIN (International Securities Identification Number). Confirm ISINs through your Demat statement or the NSE/BSE website to avoid transferring the wrong security. - Match Signatures on DIS Slips
If you’re using the offline method, make sure your signature on the DIS slip matches the one registered with Upstox. Signature mismatches are one of the most common reasons for rejection. - Initiate Transfers During Business Hours
If you’re using CDSL Easiest, submit your transfer request before 5 PM on working days. Requests after this time may be processed the next business day. - Expect a Temporary Hold on Transferred Shares
Once the transfer is initiated, those shares will be temporarily unavailable for trading until they reflect in your Zerodha account. This may take 1–2 working days (online) or 5–7 days (offline).
Following these best practices will help ensure that your share transfer is smooth, accurate, and processed without unnecessary delays.
Conclusion: Transfer Shares from One Demat to Another Seamlessly
Transferring shares from Upstox to Zerodha doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you choose the CDSL Easiest online route or the offline DIS slip method, both allow you to move your holdings without selling them — helping you avoid brokerage fees and capital gains tax.
The key is to ensure that your account details, PAN, and ISIN codes are accurate, and that you’re initiating the process during working hours. If done correctly, you can shift your entire portfolio from one Demat to another in just a few days — securely and free of charge.
With Zerodha’s powerful tools and a user-friendly platform, this switch can enhance your investing experience without disrupting your current positions.
In today’s digital world, retail investors have more control than ever. By using the right methods and platforms, you can manage your investments across brokers with ease and confidence.
FAQs: Transfer Shares from Upstox to Zerodha
1. Can I transfer shares from Upstox to Zerodha online?
Yes, you can transfer shares from Upstox to Zerodha using the CDSL Easiest platform. It’s a fully digital, paperless method that completes the transfer within 1–2 working days.
2. Is there any charge to transfer shares between Upstox and Zerodha?
No, CDSL does not charge any fees for off-market share transfers. However, some brokers may charge nominal handling fees for offline transfers via DIS. Upstox generally does not charge for online transfers.
3. How long does it take to transfer shares from Upstox to Zerodha?
If you use the CDSL Easiest platform, the transfer typically completes within 24 to 48 working hours. Offline transfers via DIS can take 5–7 working days.
4. Will I have to pay tax if I transfer shares from Upstox to Zerodha?
No. Transferring shares between your own Demat accounts is considered an off-market, non-sale transaction. Therefore, it does not trigger any capital gains tax.
5. What happens to the average purchase price of my stocks after transfer?
Your average purchase price and holding period remain unchanged. Zerodha automatically reflects the correct cost basis once the shares are credited to your account.
6. What documents do I need to transfer shares from Upstox to Zerodha?
For online transfer via CDSL Easiest, no documents are needed beyond registration and OTP verification. For offline transfer, you’ll need to fill and sign the DIS slip provided by Upstox.
7. Can I transfer mutual funds from Upstox to Zerodha?
Only mutual fund units held in Demat form can be transferred between brokers. If your mutual funds are in Upstox Demat form, you can transfer them to Zerodha using the same process.
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