Class 3 DSC for Foreigner

Introduction

These days, both businesses and individuals require strong authentication and data security. A Digital Signature Certificate is a secure digital method used to verify the identity of the person signing. Of the forms of DSC, a Class 3 DSC offers the highest protection and is selected most often where the term is used in an official and banking sense, such as in online transactions, e-filing and other communications.

This guide explains the process for foreign nationals or NRIs to get and use a Class 3 DSC in India.

What is a Class 3 DSC?

These are individuals or organisations that must engage in highly secure online transactions and they can acquire a Class 3 DSC.

• Online bidding and online purchasing

• The process of becoming a company or Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)

• The process of filing tax returns is called Income Tax Returns (ITR).

• Putting your name on official papers

• MCA21 is the ministry’s electronic filing system.

• Registering under the Import Export Code (IEC)

Why is Class 3 DSC Important?

• The importance of identity authentication is high.

• ensuring that no one is able to disclaim that any communication was effected

• Keeping information shared online fully secure and correct

Eligibility for Foreigners

A foreigner can obtain a Class 3 Driving License provided that the following is provided:

• They are allowed to become parties to Indian business operations like starting a company, submitting offers online and executing contracts etc.

• Do Indian companies have directors or authorised signatories?

• It is necessary to sign dead documents to the Indian regulatory authorities as the ministry of corporate affairs (MCA), DGFT, and the GST portal.

Required Documents for Foreigners

What documents are needed depends on whether the person applying represents a company and on their location such as inside or outside India.

For Foreign Individuals Residing Outside India:

• A notarised and apostilled/attested passport is required (Indian Embassy).

• Use documents such as a foreign utility bill, driving license and more (all these documents must be notarised & apostilled/attested)

• Newly taken passport-sized picture

• An authorisation letter should be given as proof that someone else can apply.

For Foreign Individuals in India:

• Passport

• Valid visa

• A piece of paper, which you identify yourself (professionally or medically)

• PAN Card is not required but you may have to get if your income is governed by income tax rules.

Note: All of the paperwork must be verified based on a Notary Public or by the Indian Embassy in the country that you reside in or it should be apostilled (in accordance with the Hague convention practices).

How to Apply for Class 3 DSC for Foreigners

• Choose a Certifying Authority (CA): eMudhra, Sify, Capricorn, VSign and other companies are the complete licensed Certifying Authority in India.

• Fill the DSC Application Form: An application form can be used either online or offline, following the CA’s steps.

• Submit Documents: Submit or send required attested documents as instructed.

• Video Verification: The groups will be required to create a short video in order to authenticate their identity.

• Payment of Fees: Pay the fee that’s charged by the provider for each year you need insurance (approximately INR 1500–2500).

• Issuance: After the authentication is completed, a USB token (cryptographic device) containing the DSC is sent by mail to the applicant.

Modes of Delivery

• A USB Token (Cryptographic Device) must be used to use the DSC safely.

• If you are residing overseas, the token may be sent to your international address (confirm with CA about shipping options and payments).

Use Cases of Class 3 DSC for Foreign Nationals

• How to Register a Foreign Company in India

• Bidding for work in Indian government tenders

• Deciding if a business action should go forward

• Lodging all reports and documents required by the MCA, GST and DGFT

• Working by using electronic signatures

Common Challenges and Tips

Conclusion

Getting a Class 3 DSC is simple if you know what documentation and proofs are needed. By preparing well, international users and companies can use DSCs to participate securely in India’s digital space, agree to contracts, join tenders and make sure they follow Indian legal rules.

There is never any harm in seeking the assistance of a professional agency or CCA, where one does not know what to do.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this blog is purely for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy, reliability and completeness of the content presented, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, for the same. 

We expressly disclaim any and all liability for any loss, damage or injury arising from or in connection with the use of or reliance on this information. This includes, but is not limited to, any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential or punitive damage.

Further, we reserve the right to make changes to the content at any time without prior notice. For specific advice tailored to your situation, we request you to get in touch with us.