Client Onboarding Methods in Advisor Portal

IBKR provides multiple methods to add or onboard new client accounts. This flexibility allows you to choose a workflow that best fits each situation – whether you’re onboarding a single client, a batch of clients, or migrating accounts from another platform. Here are the primary onboarding methods available to advisors:

Onboarding Method	How It Works	When to Use
Electronic Invitation (Fully Digital)	You initiate an account application by sending the client an email invitation via the Advisor Portal. The client receives a link to IBKR’s online application and completes all required information and e-signs documents electronically. Once the client submits the digital application, it flows directly to IBKR for approval.	Default method for most new clients. Ideal when the client is comfortable with online forms and e-signature. This method is fully digital, fast, and convenient for both advisor and client.
Semi-Electronic Application (Advisor-Assisted)	You (the advisor) fill out the online application form on behalf of the client through the Advisor Portal. The system then generates a PDF of the completed application, which you can print or send to the client for a physical signature. Alternatively, you can use DocuSign to collect the client’s electronic signature securely and efficiently. Once signed either electronically or physically the document is returned to you, and you submit it to IBKR for processing (by uploading it via the portal).	Useful when a client prefers to review forms offline or is less tech-savvy. Also helpful if you want to pre-fill information for the client to reduce errors. This method combines online data entry with a traditional signed document.
Mass Upload (Bulk Onboarding)	(Bulk Onboarding) Using IBKR’s Mass Upload tool, you can upload a spreadsheet (Excel workbook) containing information for multiple client accounts at once. IBKR will generate applications for each listed client. You then coordinate with those clients to collect any additional info or signatures as needed (often via email invite for each account).	Ideal for onboarding multiple clients in one batch, such as when transitioning a book of business from another custodian or enrolling a large group (e.g. a set of related accounts). It saves time by avoiding manual entry of each account. After upload, each client will be required to log into the application and complete some information, forms and agreements.
Customized Application via API/XML	For larger firms or those with their own onboarding portals, IBKR offers an Application XML API. This allows you to integrate IBKR’s account opening into your own systems. You can generate a customized client application (with your branding and specific questions) and then use DocuSign integration to gather all required signatures in one package. The data is sent to IBKR via XML for account opening.	Best for enterprise-level onboarding or when you want a highly customized client experience. If you have an existing client onboarding workflow (e.g., in your CRM or website), this method lets you connect it to IBKR’s backend. It requires some technical setup, but streamlines the process for large-scale or custom needs

As shown above, you have flexible onboarding options on the IBKR platform. Most advisors will use the standard electronic invitation for day-to-day onboarding because it’s straightforward and automated. However, the semi-electronic method is a great fallback if you need more control over the input (for example, filling in complex trust information together with the client) or simply want to provide your client with premier service by assisting them with the application. The mass upload and API methods are there to support bulk transitions and advanced integrations, respectively.

Tip: All these methods can be accessed in the Advisor Portal by navigating to the Home menu > Add Account section. IBKR will guide you through selecting which onboarding mode you want (individual invite, semi-electronic, bulk upload, etc.). For compliance, IBKR will not allow a client’s email address or phone number to match the advisor’s contact information on file. Each client must have their own unique email address and phone number.