Saving Mantra Blog: Step-by-Step Process for Digital Signature (Class 3) for Foreign Citizens & NRI in India
Digital Signature Certificates (DSCs) are required for many Indian e-governance, tax, and legal processes. For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Foreign Citizens, a Class 3 DSC is essential for activities like MCA filings, tax submissions, DGFT transactions, tenders, and company registrations in India.
This Saving Mantra guide provides a complete step-by-step process, including requirements, documentation, verification, approvals, timelines, and compliance tips.
⭐ What is a Class 3 Digital Signature Certificate?
A Class 3 DSC is the highest-level Digital Signature used for authentication in India. It is issued by Government Licensed Certifying Authorities (CAs) and stored on a USB Crypto Token for security.
⭐ Who Needs a Class 3 DSC?
NRIs or Foreign Citizens require a DSC if they:
- Are Directors/Authorized Signatories of Indian firms
- Need to file MCA (ROC) forms
- File Income Tax / TDS returns
- Participate in e-tenders or e-auctions
- Use DGFT for export-import activities
- File documents with IEPF, GST, RERA, etc.
- Need secure-signing for Indian legal contracts
⭐ Step-by-Step Process for NRI & Foreign Citizens to Get Class 3 DSC
Step 1: Choose the Correct DSC Category
Select based on your role:
- Individual DSC — For personal or professional filings
- Organizational DSC — For company/firm authorization
Validity options:
- 2 years (commonly used)
- 3 years
Step 2: Select a Certifying Authority (CA)
Licensed Indian CAs include:
- eMudhra
- Capricorn
- Sify
- VSign
- Pantasign
- IDSign
NRIs & Foreign Citizens must choose one that supports overseas issuance.
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
A) Identity Proof (Any One)
- Passport (mandatory if NRI/foreigner)
- OCI/PIO Card (if applicable)
B) Address Proof (Any One)
- Passport (with address)
- Foreign utility bill (not older than 3 months)
- Foreign bank statement
- Residence permit / PR card
- NRE/NRO Bank Statement (for NRIs)
C) Additional for Organizational DSC
- Board Resolution/Authorization Letter
- Company Registration Certificate
- PAN & GST (if applicable)
D) Photograph & Signatures
- Passport-size photo
- Specimen signature
Step 4: Complete DSC Online Application Form
These details are required:
- Full name as per passport
- Email ID
- Country of residence
- Mobile number with country code
- Passport number
- Date of birth
- Role (Individual/Director/Authorized Signatory)
Step 5: Perform Video / Biometric / OTP Verification
Verification options vary by CA:
✔ Video KYC Verification
Applicant must:
- Show passport to camera
- Read verification code
- Confirm basic details
✔ Biometric Authentication (optional)
Using fingerprint scanner (rare for foreigners)
✔ Email & Mobile OTP
For additional authentication
Step 6: Submit Documents for Attestation
Document attestation requirements depend on jurisdiction:
For Foreign Citizens
Documents must be:
- Notarized, or
- Consular attested, or
- Apostilled (Hague Convention countries)
For NRIs
Documents should be:
- Notarized in India, or
- Consular attested, or
- Attested by Indian Bank (NRE/NRO)
Check with CA as requirements may vary country-wise.
Step 7: Pay DSC Fees
Approximate cost:
- ₹2,500 – ₹7,000 for Individual DSC (2 years)
- ₹3,000 – ₹10,000 for Organizational DSC (2 years)
Charges vary by CA, token, and validity.
Step 8: Issuance of Digital Signature & Token Delivery
Once verified:
✔ DSC Certificate Issued: 1–5 days
✔ Hardware Token Dispatched: 5–15 days (international courier)
Token examples:
- Aladdin Token
- Epki Token
- WatchData Token
Step 9: Install & Use DSC
Requirements:
- USB crypto token
- DSC management driver
- Browser configuration (for MCA & DGFT portals)
Supported browsers:
- Chrome
- Firefox
- Edge (with plugins)
- Internet Explorer (for legacy MCA)
⭐ Common Use Cases for NRIs & Foreign Citizens
| Use Case | Portal |
|---|---|
| Company Incorporation | MCA/ROC |
| Director KYC (DIR-3 KYC) | MCA |
| Tax Filing | Income Tax Portal |
| Tenders / Auctions | GeM, CPPP |
| Import-Export Filings | DGFT |
| Legal e-contracts | eSign/Contract Tools |
| Asset Transfers | IEPF, RERA |
⭐ Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Using un-attested foreign documents
❌ Mismatch between passport and application
❌ No country code in mobile number
❌ Using DSC without configuring browser drivers
❌ Selecting wrong DSC category (Org vs Individual)
⭐ Benefits of Class 3 DSC for NRI/Foreign Citizens
✔ Legally valid under IT Act
✔ Accepted by all major Indian portals
✔ Secure authentication for filings
✔ Faster compliance processing
✔ Required for cross-border business setup in India
Disclaimer
This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. DSC rules, documentation, and pricing may change. Readers should verify details with an authorized Certifying Authority or consult a qualified professional before proceeding.