Director KYC: How to File DIR-3 KYC

Introduction

In today’s complex corporate governance environment, staying compliant with regulatory norms is crucial for the smooth functioning of any business. For directors in India, one of the key compliance obligations is the DIR-3 KYC process, mandated by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). This requirement ensures that directors maintain an active Director Identification Number (DIN)—a unique identifier for individuals who hold or intend to hold directorship in a company.

Originally introduced as a one-time verification, DIR-3 KYC is now an annual compliance requirement, requiring directors to update their KYC details each year to keep their DIN active and validate their legal standing.

In this article, we will walk you through how to apply for DIR-3 KYC for directors. If you need assistance, the experts at Auriga Accounting pvt. ltd. can help you complete the DIR-3 KYC process quickly and accurately.

Latest Update

The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has extended the deadline for filing DIR-3 KYC and DIR-3 KYC-WEB without any late fee to 15th October 2025. All filings submitted on or before this date will be free of charge.
Directors who miss the extended deadline will be required to pay a late fee of ₹5,000 per DIN, and their DIN may be deactivated until the compliance is completed.

Click here to learn more about the extended DIR-3 KYC filing deadline.

DIR-3 KYC

Running a business or startup involves handling multiple legal obligations, including filing various forms with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). One of the most important requirements for directors is obtaining and maintaining a Director Identification Number (DIN)—a unique number assigned to individuals who hold or intend to hold a directorship in a company.
Earlier, filing the DIR-3 form once was enough to obtain a DIN. However, under updated MCA rules, every director with an allotted DIN must now submit their KYC details annually through the DIR-3 KYC form to keep their DIN active.

Who Needs to File DIR-3 KYC?

According to the latest MCA regulations, every director who was allotted a DIN on or before 31st March 2018 must file DIR-3 KYC.
This requirement also applies to disqualified directors, making it mandatory for all affected individuals to submit their annual KYC.

Key Verification Requirements for DIR-3 KYC

To ensure accuracy and authenticity, directors must comply with the following verification steps:

1. Contact Verification

Directors must provide their valid email ID and mobile number. These will be verified through OTPs to confirm authenticity.

2. Digital Signature (DSC)

The DIR-3 KYC form must be digitally signed by the director.

3. Professional Certification

A practising CA, CS, or Cost Accountant must certify the form, confirming the correctness of the details submitted.

Penalties for Late Filing

If a director fails to file the KYC form before the deadline, a penalty of ₹5,000 will be imposed.
To reactivate the DIN after the due date, the director must complete the same filing process and pay the applicable penalty.

Documents Required for DIR-3 KYC

Directors must provide the following documents while filing the KYC form:
Identity & Citizenship Details
Nationality and citizenship information
Date of birth and gender
Identity Proofs
PAN Card
Voter ID
Passport
Driving License
Aadhaar Card (for Indian nationals)
Contact Information
Personal mobile number
Personal email address
Address Details
Permanent residential address
Current residential address (if different)
Additional Requirements
Digital Signature (DSC) of the applicant
Declaration confirming accuracy of information
Attested copies of documents by a practising CA/CS

Fees for DIR-3 KYC Filing

Free if filed on or before the due date.
₹5,000 penalty if filed after the deadline.

How to Apply for DIR-3 KYC Online

Follow these steps to complete the DIR-3 KYC application process:

Step 1: Download the Form

Download the DIR-3 KYC form from the MCA website.

Step 2: Check DIN Status

If DIN is active: Proceed with form submission.
If DIN is deactivated: Pay the penalty first, then continue.

Step 3: Prepare Required Documents

Collect PAN, Aadhaar, passport, address proof, and other relevant documents.

Step 4: Fill Out the Form

Enter your name as per PAN
Provide nationality details
NRI directors must provide passport details
You must be 18+ years to file
Enter permanent and current address
Verify PAN using “Verify Income-Tax PAN”
Verify mobile and email via OTP
Affix your Digital Signature (DSC)
Attach required documents (address proof, Aadhaar, passport if applicable)

Step 5: Professional Certification

Get the form certified by a practising CA/CS/Cost Accountant, who will also sign it digitally.

Step 6: Submit Online

Upload the completed form and attachments on the MCA portal.

Step 7: Receive Confirmation

An SRN (Service Request Number) will be generated.
You will receive a confirmation email with an approval receipt.

What Happens After Submission?

1. SRN Generation

After submitting the form, an SRN is generated for tracking future communications with the MCA.

2. Approval Email & Receipt

A confirmation email is sent to the registered email ID, containing:

Approval notification
Submission receipt (keep it safely for records)

About the Author

Ravi

Ravi is a seasoned legal writer who transforms complex laws into clear, practical insights. He supports entrepreneurs in understanding their legal responsibilities, empowering them to build compliant and sustainable businesses with confidence.