A Central Know Your Customer (CKYC) number is required by law in India if you plan to invest in mutual funds or other financial assets. Having a CKYC number will show financial regulators that you are a legitimate investor and help to verify your identity. The process for getting a CKYC number is relatively easy and once you have it, you do not need to apply for it again. With a few key personal documents and the right information on the application form, you can get your CKYC number and start investing right away.

• Download and print the official CKYC application form. Fill out your personal information according to the instructions on the form.
• Include your Permanent Account Number, as well as your proof of identity and address in the form of a passport number or driver's license.
• Submit the completed form to a local registrar's office, along with a passport photo to be included with your paperwork.

Applying for a CKYC Number**

Download and print the CKYC application form. Access the application form here: https://www.sebi.gov.in/sebi_data/commondocs/KYC_ApplForm_p.pdf. You can also get a copy of the form through your financial broker or mutual funds provider.

Provide basic personal information on the form.

You will need to provide your full name, as well as your father’s or spouse's full name. You will also need to list your date of birth, your gender, your occupations, and your marital status.You will also need to note your citizenship level and your residential status.

Include your Permanent Account Number.

Your PAN is a 10-digit number given to you by the federal Income Tax Department. You can apply for a PAN if you do not already have one through the government’s Income Tax Department.

Provide proof of identity and address information.

You will need to list at least 1 of the following for the proof of identity section and the proof of address section: your passport number and the expiry date, your driver’s license number and the expiry date, your voter ID card number, or an AADHAR card number.You will also need to provide copies of your passport or driver’s license to prove your identity and address. You may need to provide the originals of your passport and your driver’s license, if requested during the application process.