Foreign/NRI DSC

A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is an electronic key used to verify the identity of the signer of a document or electronic transaction. Foreign citizens can obtain a DSC in India by submitting additional documents such as passport and visa. The DSC is issued by a Certifying Authority and is valid for a limited period of time.

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NRI DSC

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Foreign DSC

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Overview of DSC for Foreign Citizens

DSC stands for Digital Signature Certificate, which is a secure electronic key that is used to authenticate the identity of the signer of a document or an electronic transaction. It is issued by a Certifying Authority (CA) and is used to verify the authenticity and integrity of electronic documents.

For foreign citizens, obtaining a DSC in India is similar to the process followed by Indian citizens. However, foreign citizens need to provide additional documents such as their passport and visa, as well as proof of their address in India.

To obtain a DSC, foreign citizens need to first select a Certifying Authority and fill out the necessary application form. They will then need to submit their personal information and supporting documents for verification. Once the documents have been verified, the Certifying Authority will issue the DSC, which can be used to sign electronic documents and transactions.

It is important to note that DSCs are typically issued for a limited period of time and need to be renewed periodically. Foreign citizens should also ensure that their DSC is accepted by the Indian government and other relevant authorities before using it for official purposes.

Advantages of DSC for Foreign Citizens

Security and Authentication Provides a secure way of signing electronic documents and transactions.
Ensures the authenticity of the signer’s identity.
Time and Cost Savings Eliminates the need for physical signatures and paperwork.
Saves time and effort in conducting business and participating in electronic transactions.
Accessibility and Convenience Enables foreign citizens to conduct business in India.
Allows foreign citizens to participate in electronic transactions with ease.
Identity Establishment and Protection Helps foreign citizens to establish their identity in India.
Protects the signer’s identity and prevents fraud.

Registration Process

#1: Choose a Certifying Authority (CA): Foreign citizens should choose a reliable Certifying Authority in India that is authorized to issue Digital Signature Certificates.

#2: Obtain the application form: The foreign citizen can obtain the DSC application form from the selected Certifying Authority. Some CAs provide the option of filling out the form online.

#3: Fill out the application form: The foreign citizen needs to fill out the application form with their personal information and submit it to the Certifying Authority along with the required documents.

#4: Identity verification: The Certifying Authority will verify the identity of the foreign citizen based on the documents provided.

#5: Payment: The foreign citizen needs to make the payment for the DSC registration to the Certifying Authority.

#6: Issuance of DSC: Once the payment is received and the identity is verified, the Certifying Authority will issue the DSC to the foreign citizen.

#7: Download the DSC: The foreign citizen can download the DSC from the Certifying Authority’s website or collect it in person.

#8: Install the DSC: The foreign citizen needs to install the DSC on their computer or USB token as per the instructions provided by the Certifying Authority.

#9: Use the DSC: The foreign citizen can use the DSC to sign electronic documents and transactions.

Required Documents

#1. Passport: A copy of the foreign citizen’s passport is required for identity verification

#2. Visa: A copy of the foreign citizen’s visa is required as proof of their legal presence in India

#3. Proof of address: A copy of a utility bill or other document that shows the foreign citizen’s address in India is required as proof of address

#4. Identity proof: In addition to the passport, a copy of another form of identity proof, such as a driver’s license or national identity card, may be required

#5. Photograph: A recent passport-size photograph of the foreign citizen may be required

Frequently Asked Questions

Is DSC mandatory for foreign directors?
The foreign nationals appointed as directors in an Indian company need to have a Class 3 Digital Signature Certificate (DSC). The DSC is required for filing online forms on the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) portal
What is digital signature of foreign national?
Citizens of other countries and/ or their organization, as well as Indian national overseas, can apply for a digital signature online in order to safely transact in the country.
Is DSC mandatory for individual?
DSC is mandatory for some services / user categories such as e-Verification of returns filed by companies and political parties as well as other persons whose accounts are required to be audited under Section 44AB of the Income Tax Act. In other cases, it is optional.
Who is eligible for digital signature?

A licensed Certifying Authority (CA) issues the digital signature. Certifying Authority (CA) means a person who has been granted a license to issue a digital signature certificate under Section 24 of the Indian IT-Act 2000.