Last updated: 7 October 2026 · By Yashna Bhuwania (ARN-325085)
Quick answer: To get an ARN, first pass NISM Series V-A. Then apply on AMFI's online ARN portal, which CAMS runs for AMFI: verify your PAN and Aadhaar by OTP, fill in the form, upload your documents and pay ₹3,000 + 18% GST (₹3,540) as an individual. The ARN is valid for 3 years.
| Key fact | Value | As of |
|---|---|---|
| Who issues it | AMFI, processed by CAMS | 2026 |
| Pre-requisite | Valid NISM Series V-A certificate | 2026 |
| How to apply | Online only, with PAN-Aadhaar OTP authentication | Since 1 Oct 2024 |
| Fee, individual | ₹3,000 + 18% GST = ₹3,540 | AMFI, effective 1 Oct 2024 |
| Renewal fee, individual | ₹1,500 + 18% GST = ₹1,770 | AMFI, effective 1 Oct 2024 |
| Validity | 3 years | AMFI |
| Typical approval time | A few working days to about 2 weeks | Estimate |
What is an ARN, and why do you need one?
ARN (AMFI Registration Number): the unique code AMFI issues to a registered mutual fund distributor. AMCs pay commission only to a valid ARN.
Without an ARN you can't be empanelled with an AMC, and any regular-plan investment you help a client make earns you nothing. The ARN also appears on every transaction you place, which is how the AMC knows whom to pay. New to this? Start with how to become a mutual fund distributor.
What do you need before you apply?
Check these three things first. Most delays come from skipping one.
- A valid NISM Series V-A certificate. You apply for the ARN after you pass, not before. The certificate is valid for 3 years from the exam date.
- PAN linked to Aadhaar, with the mobile number on your Aadhaar active. The portal sends the OTP to that number.
- KYC marked "validated" with a KRA. Since 1 October 2024 AMFI no longer runs a separate in-person KYD with biometrics. It relies on your Aadhaar authentication and your existing KYC status instead.
Also make sure your name is spelt the same way on your PAN, Aadhaar, bank account and NISM certificate. A mismatch is the most common reason applications stall.
How do you register for an ARN online, step by step?
Since 1 October 2024, fresh ARN applications from individuals are accepted online only. Paper forms are no longer processed. The steps:
- Go to amfiindia.com → Distributor Corner → Online registration and renewal of ARN / EUIN.
- Choose New ARN registration and enter your PAN and mobile number. Verify with the OTP.
- Authenticate your Aadhaar with the OTP sent to your Aadhaar-linked mobile number. This replaces the old physical KYD and biometric visit.
- Fill in the application: personal details, address, contact details and your NISM V-A certificate number and date.
- Add your bank details for commission payouts. The account must be in your own name.
- Upload your documents (checklist below).
- Pay the fee: ₹3,000 + 18% GST (₹3,540) for an individual, online.
- Submit and track. CAMS verifies the application for AMFI. Once approved, you receive your ARN and can download the ARN card.
What documents do you need for ARN registration?
Keep scans clear and each file small. Blurry or oversized uploads are a common reason for a query.
| Document | Notes | Common mistake |
|---|---|---|
| NISM V-A passing certificate | Must be valid on the date you apply | Applying with a certificate close to expiry |
| PAN card | Name must match your other documents | Initials on PAN, full name elsewhere |
| Aadhaar | Used for OTP authentication | Mobile number not linked to Aadhaar |
| Address proof | Aadhaar usually suffices | Old address on file |
| Bank proof | Cancelled cheque or bank statement showing name, account number and IFSC | Joint or third-party account |
| Passport-size photograph | Recent, plain background | Selfie or cropped group photo |
Upload files as JPEG or PNG, under 1 MB each. If the portal shows a different limit when you apply, follow the portal.
How much is the ARN registration fee in 2026?
An individual pays ₹3,000 + 18% GST (₹3,540) to register and ₹1,500 + GST (₹1,770) to renew. Firms and institutions pay more. AMFI's full table, effective 1 October 2024:
| Category | Registration (₹) | Renewal (₹) | Registration incl. 18% GST (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individuals | 3,000 | 1,500 | 3,540 |
| Proprietorship firm | 3,000 | 1,500 | 3,540 |
| Employees of MFDs (EUIN holders) | 1,500 | 750 | 1,770 |
| Partnership firm | 20,000 | 10,000 | 23,600 |
| Urban co-operative banks, societies, trusts, HUFs | 20,000 | 10,000 | 23,600 |
| Post Office | 15,000 | 7,500 | 17,700 |
| Micro finance institution | 15,000 | 7,500 | 17,700 |
| Private limited company | 40,000 | 20,000 | 47,200 |
| One person company | 40,000 | 20,000 | 47,200 |
| LLP | 40,000 | 20,000 | 47,200 |
| NBFC | 1,00,000 | 50,000 | 1,18,000 |
| RRBs and DCBs | 1,00,000 | 50,000 | 1,18,000 |
| Public limited company | 4,00,000 | 2,00,000 | 4,72,000 |
| Banks | 4,00,000 | 2,00,000 | 4,72,000 |
Source: AMFI ARN/EUIN registration and renewal fee structure. All fees are plus 18% GST.
How long does ARN approval take?
Usually from a few working days to about two weeks after a complete application. The online PAN-Aadhaar route removed the courier and in-person steps that used to add weeks. Delays now come mostly from queries: a name mismatch, an unclear scan or a bank proof that doesn't show your name.
Plan for two weeks. If you hear nothing after that, check the application status on the AMFI portal and respond to any query from CAMS.
How long is an ARN valid, and how do you renew it?
An ARN is valid for 3 years. To renew it you need a valid NISM certificate first, either by passing V-A again or by attending a one-day NISM CPE programme.
| Renewal step | Timing |
|---|---|
| Renew NISM (re-exam or CPE) | Up to 12 months before the certificate expires |
| Renew ARN online on the AMFI portal | Up to 6 months before the ARN expires |
| Fee, individual | ₹1,500 + 18% GST = ₹1,770 |
Don't let it lapse. AMFI's rule is that you earn no commission on business done while your ARN is invalid. Source: AMFI Ready Reckoner for MFDs.
Why do ARN applications get rejected?
Most rejections and queries come from four avoidable problems:
- Name mismatch across PAN, Aadhaar, bank account and NISM certificate.
- NISM certificate expired or about to expire when you apply.
- Unclear or oversized uploads: blurry scans, cut-off edges, or files over the size limit.
- Bank proof that doesn't show your name and IFSC, or an account that isn't in your own name.
Fix these before you submit and most applications go through without a query.
What happens after you get your ARN?
The ARN lets you earn commission, but you still need three things to start working:
- Empanel with AMCs, or join a platform. You can only earn from AMCs you are empanelled with, directly or through a platform that holds the empanelment.
- Set up transactions: through each AMC, the exchange platforms (BSE StAR MF, NSE NMF II), MF Utility, or your platform's app.
- Diarise the annual self-declaration. It is due by 30 June every year. Miss it and commission is withheld from 1 July, then forfeited if still not filed by 30 September.
How does Dhan Saarthi help once you have your ARN?
Dhan Saarthi is a mutual fund distribution platform (Khazana Fintech Pvt. Ltd., AMFI ARN-325085). It handles the step after your ARN:
- ✓ One onboarding instead of 40+ AMC empanelments. Start placing transactions as soon as you're set up.
- ✓ You keep 90% of the trail, with no upfront, seat or module fees.
- ✓ Client tools from day one: digital onboarding, SIP management and portfolio reports.
- ✓ Compliance reminders, so renewals and the annual self-declaration don't slip.
Got your ARN? Start your MFD business on Dhan Saarthi
One onboarding, 90% of the trail, and client tools from your first SIP.
Book a Demo with Dhan SaarthiSources
- AMFI: ARN and EUIN registration and renewal fee structure, effective 1 October 2024
- AMFI: Distributor corner
- AMFI: Ready Reckoner for MFDs
- NISM: Series V-A Mutual Fund Distributors Certification Examination
Mutual fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme related documents carefully. Distribution services are offered through Khazana Fintech Pvt. Ltd. (AMFI ARN – 325085). Fees and processes are as of October 2026; check the AMFI portal before you apply.
