Get informed about Class 3 DSC for foreign nationals. Our guide covers everything you need to know to successfully navigate the application process.

1. 1
Class 3 DSC for Foreigner

2. 2
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. Among the types of DSC, a Class 3 DSC gives the strongest protection and is chosen for
most official uses, including 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?
An organization or person that needs to conduct very secure online transactions can obtain 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)

3. 3
Why is Class 3 DSC Important?
• The importance of identity authentication is high.
• Guaranteeing that no one can deny that any communication was made
• Keeping information shared online fully secure and correct
Eligibility for Foreigners
A foreigner may apply for a Class 3 Driving License if the following is met:
• They are permitted to join in Indian business processes such as founding a company, tendering
offers online and signing contracts, etc.
• Do Indian companies have directors or authorized signatories?
• It is necessary to sign documents for Indian regulatory agencies like
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.

4. 4
For Foreign Individuals Residing Outside India:
• A notarized 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 notarized & apostilled/attested)
• Newly taken passport-sized picture
• An authorization letter should be given as proof that someone else can apply.
For Foreign Individuals in India:
• Passport
• Valid visa
• A document used to prove your identity (professional or medical)
• PAN Card is optional, but you should get one if your income falls under tax rules.
Note: All paperwork has to be confirmed with a Notary Public or by the Indian Embassy where
you live or it needs to be apostilled (in line with the Hague convention rules).
How to Apply for Class 3 DSC for Foreigners
• Choose a Certifying Authority (CA): eMudhra, Sify, Capricorn, VSign and other companies
make up the licensed CAs in India.

5. 5
• 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 the necessary attested documents as directed.
• Video Verification: Groups are obliged to produce a short video to prove who they are.
• Payment of Fees: Pay the fee that’s charged by the provider for each year you need
insurance (approximately INR 1500–2500).
• Issuance: Once authentication is complete, a USB token (cryptographic device) with the
DSC is mailed 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

6. 6
Common Challenges and Tips
Challenge Tip
Apostille/Attestation delays
Start the process early, especially in countries where
apostille services are slow.
Choosing the right CA
Select an experienced Certifying Authority familiar with
handling foreign applications.
Shipping issues
Confirm delivery options and timelines in advance with
the provider.
Document rejections
Double-check attestation and ensure all documents are
clear and complete.
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.
It is always simpler to get help from a professional agency or authorized CA if you are unsure what to do.