DSC for Foreign National Online

What is a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)?

A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is an electronic credential used to verify the identity of the signer and ensure the authenticity of digital documents. Licensed by the Government of India, a DSC secures your online transactions and makes them legally valid.

• Income Tax Return Filing

• Incorporating companies or LLPs

• Submitting statutory documents on MCA and GST portals

• Participating in e-tenders

• Fulfilling various legally mandated digital processes

A DSC is essential for secure, compliant, and efficient digital operations.

Why Do Foreign Nationals Need a DSC?

For different legal and business reasons, many foreign nationals submit DSC applications in India.

• Getting appointed as a director or partner is possible in any Indian company or Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)

• The process of filing taxes and supporting papers with the Indian authorities

• Being a part of Indian tenders and contracts

• Covering contracts and agreements by using digital processes

Types of DSC Available

There are several kinds of DSCs, but most often foreign nationals seek the following one:

• Class 3 DSC (now moved into Class 2 per the new CCA rules) – Can be used for setting up a business, e-tendering and other legal purposes.

Who Can Apply for DSC as a Foreign National?

Foreign nationals who are:

• Directors or promoters of Indian companies

• Authorized signatories

• NRIs (Non-Resident Indians)

• Foreign investors or representatives

• Individuals participating in Indian government contracts

Documents Required for Foreign Nationals to Apply for DSC

• Any one of these Identities is accepted as Identity Proof:

1. Passport (Mandatory)
2. Visa for Indian visitors
3. If you hold an OCI or PIO card, bring it with you.

• One of the following can be used as proof of address.

1. Driving License
2. Statement with address in an overseas country
3. Bills for electricity, water and gas sent to you at a foreign address
4. Residence permit if you live in India

• Photograph:

1. Recent passport photo

• Authorisation Letter, in case the DSC is used as a representative of a company

• Attestation Requirements:

  • The documents must be attested by the proper authority.

1. An Indian Embassy or Consulate located in the applicant’s nation is the place of application.
2. Covered with the Hague Apostille or
3. In some matters, a Public Notary is responsible for notarizing the document.

Online Process to Apply for DSC for Foreign Nationals

• Choose a Certifying Authority (CA): Here, you have the option to choose a licensed CA in India: eMudhra, Sify, VSign, Capricorn or NSDL.

• Select DSC Type: Pick the appropriate DSC class; most of the time, you will need Class 3 with signing and encryption.

• Fill Online Application: Head to the CA’s portal and check the details needed for your passport.

• Upload Documents: Send scanned versions of your attested ID, address proof, photo and authorization letter.

• Video Verification: The applicant could be told to complete a quick video verification or record a video to confirm who they are.

• Payment: Extend your visa by paying online in advance (you can pay for up to 3 years).

• Issuance of DSC: A USB token or downloadable file may be issued for DSC, depending on what the issuing CA can provide.

Important Considerations

• Both the name on the passport and the one in your application should be the same.

• If all of your paperwork is not in English, it must be translated and notarised.

• You can typically receive your decision within 2–5 working days, depending on verification and CA processing.

• Many CAs ask DSC administrators to store their DSCs using a USB cryptographic token such as ePass2003 or ProxKey.

Benefits of Applying Online

• Easy access from any location globally

• Faster processing with eKYC and video verification

• No need for physical presence in India

• Secure and legally valid for Indian digital platforms

Conclusion

With the online DSC, foreigners can now join in digital and legal Indian government and business activities after a streamlined and secure journey. All you need is confirmed documentation and proper validation, and it can be completed from home in just a few days.

Having a DSC is usually necessary if you are an international person seeking to do business or invest in India. It is important to talk to a Certifying Authority or a reputable service provider so that your application runs smoothly.

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.