The SFIO is a multi-disciplinary organization, comprising experts in various fields such as accountancy, forensic auditing, banking, law, information technology, investigation, company law, capital market, taxation, among other domains.

Initially, it was set up by a resolution adopted by the Government of India on 2 July 2003 and carried out investigations within the existing legal framework under section 235 to 247 of the erstwhile Companies Act, 1956.

[3] Agency headquarters is in the Indian capital, New Delhi, with field offices located in major cities throughout India.

The SFIO draws most of its officers from the ICLS, IAS, IPS, IRS and banks & other central services.

Many Additional, Joint and deputy director level officers are from ministry 's parent cadre, Indian Corporate Law Service.