Differences Between eKYC and CKYC

Streamline your identity verification with eKYC and CKYC and use the Insta EMI Card to shop for your favourite products on affordable Easy EMIs.
Differences Between eKYC and CKYC
5 min
March 30, 2026

eKYC and CKYC are digital frameworks that simplify how you verify your identity for financial services in India. eKYC uses your Aadhaar data for instant, paperless authentication through biometrics or a one-time password. CKYC acts as a central registry that stores your verified records, allowing different financial institutions to access them without asking for fresh documents. You can complete these verification processes quickly to apply for the Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card. This card provides a pre-approved card loan offer, which you can use to shop on Easy EMIs.


Overview of eKYC

eKYC, or Electronic Know Your Customer, is a remote and paperless process that confirms your identity using the Aadhaar database. When you provide your Aadhaar number and consent, the service provider fetches your demographic details like name, address, and date of birth digitally. You can complete this through biometric scans at a physical point or via an OTP sent to your registered mobile number. This method eliminates the need for physical photocopies and manual data entry, making it an efficient way to open bank accounts or activate mobile connections instantly.


Overview of CKYC

CKYC, or Central Know Your Customer, is a centralised repository that stores the KYC records of customers across the entire financial sector. Once you complete your KYC with one regulated entity, your data goes to the Central Registry of Securitisation Asset Reconstruction and Security Interest of India. You receive a unique 14-digit CKYC identifier that you can share with other banks, insurers, or stockbrokers. This system ensures that you do not have to undergo the same verification process repeatedly when you seek new financial products from different providers, saving significant time and effort.


Key differences between eKYC and CKYC

The primary differences involve the method of verification and how financial institutions reuse your data. While one focuses on instant digital authentication, the other prioritises a one-time registration for long-term use.

FeatureeKYCCKYC
Verification baseUses Aadhaar and biometrics or OTPUses various officially valid documents
Data storageReal-time fetching from UIDAICentralised registry storage
ReusabilityPerformed separately for each serviceSingle record used across all entities
Primary goalInstant, paperless onboardingEliminating repetitive documentation
IdentifierAadhaar number14-digit CKYC number

Benefits of eKYC and CKYC

Both systems enhance the security and speed of your financial transactions while reducing the burden of carrying physical documents. They ensure that your identity remains protected through encrypted digital channels and standardised procedures.

BenefiteKYC impactCKYC impact
SpeedEnables real-time identity proofReduces future onboarding time
ConvenienceNo physical branch visits requiredKYC is done once for all sectors
CostLowers paper and processing costsEliminates redundant verification fees
AccuracyRemoves risks of manual entry errorsProvides uniform data to all institutions
SecurityUses secure biometric or OTP checksStores records in a high-security vault

Which one should you choose?

You generally do not need to choose between them, as they often work together to provide a seamless financial journey. Most modern service providers in India will guide you through the process that best suits your current application.

  • Immediate onboarding: Opt for eKYC if you want to open a digital wallet or a basic savings account instantly from your home.
  • Broad financial planning: Complete the CKYC process if you plan to invest in mutual funds, buy insurance, and open a demat account.
  • Paperless preference: Choose eKYC whenever you want to avoid the hassle of scanning or carrying physical copies of your identity proofs.
  • Long-term ease: Ensure your CKYC record is updated so that your future applications for loans or credit products remain hassle-free.
  • Ecosystem usage: Use eKYC for fast mobile SIM activations or when applying for digital financial tools like the Insta EMI Card.

What is a Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card?

The Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card is a digital financial product that offers a pre-approved card loan offer of up to Rs. 3 lakh. It allows you to purchase a wide variety of electronics, home appliances, and life-care services on Easy EMIs. You can select a flexible repayment tenure ranging from 3 to 60 months based on your financial comfort. The card is accepted at more than 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 cities in India. You can activate your card instantly through a paperless process involving eKYC for quick verification.

Check your Insta EMI Card eligibility online using your mobile number and OTP. If eligible, you can apply instantly and start shopping for your preferred product easily and affordably.
 

Benefits of using the Insta EMI Card

FeatureDetails
Easy EMIsSplit the cost of your purchase into affordable monthly instalments with minimal interest, making it budget-friendly.
High pre-qualified limitGet up to Rs. 3 lakh card loan offer amount to buy multiple products without upfront stress.
Wide acceptance networkAccepted at over 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 cities and major e-commerce platforms.
Flexible repayment tenureChoose a repayment period from 3 to 60 months based on your financial comfort.
Zero down payment offersAvail deals with no upfront payment requirement on select models.
No foreclosure chargesClose your loan early without any penalties or extra fees.
Credit score benefitTimely EMI payments may help strengthen your credit profile and financial health.


Also read: Features and benefits of the Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card
 

Eligibility criteria for the Insta EMI Card

  • Nationality: Indian Citizen.
  • Age: 21 years to 65 years.
  • Credit score: A healthy credit score per Bajaj Finserv policies.
  • Income: A steady, regular source of income.
  • Documents: PAN Card, Aadhaar Card, and a cancelled cheque for e-mandate.


Also read: Eligibility criteria for the Insta EMI Card
 

How to apply for an Insta EMI Card

  • Verify mobile number: Enter your 10-digit mobile number and verify the OTP sent to your phone to initiate the process.
  • Auto-fetch details: Provide your full name and select the option to auto-fetch your details for a faster application experience.
  • Confirm information: Verify your pre-filled personal details carefully and click on the continue button to move to the next stage.
  • Check offer: Review your pre-qualified card loan offer amount and select continue to proceed with the specified limit.
  • Set up wallet: Review your wallet setup details and verify the security OTP to integrate the card with your account.
  • Verify identity: Complete your identity verification process by confirming your current residential address as per the required official records.
  • Pay fee: Make the mandatory one-time joining fee payment of Rs. 530 through the secure digital payment gateway provided.
  • View card: Access and view your new digital card details instantly on the Bajaj Finserv application after the successful payment.
     

Also read: How to apply for the Insta EMI Card
 

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Disclaimer

1. Bajaj Finance Limited (“BFL”) is a Non-Banking Finance Company (NBFC) and Prepaid Payment Instrument Issuer offering financial services viz., loans, deposits, Bajaj Pay Wallet, Bajaj Pay UPI, bill payments and third-party wealth management products. The details mentioned in the respective product/ service document shall prevail in case of any inconsistency with respect to the information referring to BFL products and services on this page.

2. All other information, such as, the images, facts, statistics etc. (“information”) that are in addition to the details mentioned in the BFL’s product/ service document and which are being displayed on this page only depicts the summary of the information sourced from the public domain. The said information is neither owned by BFL nor it is to the exclusive knowledge of BFL. There may be inadvertent inaccuracies or typographical errors or delays in updating the said information. Hence, users are advised to independently exercise diligence by verifying complete information, including by consulting experts, if any. Users shall be the sole owner of the decision taken, if any, about suitability of the same.
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Frequently asked questions

Is eKYC mandatory for all financial services?

Yes, eKYC has become an essential requirement for most digital financial services in India to ensure secure onboarding. Regulators mandate this process for banks, fintech apps, and telecom providers to prevent fraud. It confirms your identity instantly while adhering to strict anti-money laundering guidelines set by the government.

What documents are required for CKYC registration?

To register for CKYC, you typically need to provide a PAN card and an officially valid document like an Aadhaar card, passport, or voter ID. You also need to submit a recent photograph and a signed CKYC template. Financial institutions use these to create your centralised record in the national registry.

Can CKYC be done online and offline?

Yes, you can complete CKYC both online and offline through any regulated financial institution like a bank or a mutual fund house. For the online process, you can use video-based identification or eKYC. For the offline method, you must submit physical forms and documents at a designated service centre.

How to do Aadhaar eKYC online?

You can perform Aadhaar eKYC online by visiting the website of a service provider and entering your 12-digit Aadhaar number. You must then provide your consent and enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number. Alternatively, some apps use face authentication to verify your identity against the UIDAI database.

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