If you are a director of a company in India, you must complete something called Director KYC every year. This is a simple online process where you confirm your personal details with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).
In this guide, we will explain what Director KYC is, why it is important, who needs to file it, and most importantly — how to download the KYC form online and file it correctly.
What is Director KYC?
KYC stands for Know Your Customer. Director KYC is a process introduced by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) in India. It helps the government keep correct and updated information about people who are directors in Indian companies.
Every person who has a Director Identification Number (DIN) must file their KYC every year.
Why is Director KYC Important?
Director KYC is important for several reasons:
- It keeps your DIN active.
- It helps the government keep records clean and up to date.
- It prevents fraud or misuse of directorships.
If you do not file your KYC:
- Your DIN will be deactivated.
- You will have to pay a penalty of ₹5,000 to reactivate it.
Who Should File Director KYC?
You must file Director KYC if:
- You have been given a DIN on or before March 31st of the financial year.
- Your DIN status is marked as Approved.
- You have not filed your KYC for the current financial year.
Even if you are not currently working as a director in any company, but you have an active DIN, you still have to file KYC.
Two Ways to File Director KYC
There are two types of KYC forms, depending on your situation:
1. DIR-3 KYC (PDF Form)
You must use this if:
- You are filing for the first time, or
- Your details (like email, phone, or address) have changed.
2. DIR-3 KYC Web (Online Form)
You can use this if:
- You already filed KYC last year, and
- Your personal details have not changed.
How to Download the Director KYC Form Online?
If you need to file using the DIR-3 KYC (PDF Form), follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Visit the MCA Website
Go to the official website of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs:
This is the only official website where you can find and file the company and director forms.
Step 2: Go to the ‘Download e-Forms’ Page
- On the top menu, click on “MCA Services.”
- From the dropdown, click on “Download e-Forms.”
- You can also directly visit this link:-
- https://www.mca.gov.in/content/mca/global/en/e-filing/Download-eform.html
Step 3: Search for DIR-3 KYC
On the download page:
- Use Ctrl + F on your keyboard to navigate or search for “DIR-3 KYC.”
- You will find two links:
-
- DIR-3 KYC (PDF Form) — click this to download the form.
-
- DIR-3 KYC Web — this will take you to the online filing page if you’re eligible.
Click on DIR-3 KYC to download the form to your computer.
Step 4: Open the Form Using Adobe Acrobat Reader
The form is a special type of file called a fillable PDF, also known as a smart form. You need to open it using Adobe Acrobat Reader.
- Do not open it in a browser (like Chrome or Edge).
- Download and install the Adobe Acrobat Reader if you don’t already have it.
Step 5: Fill in Your Personal Details
Open the form and fill in the following details:-
- Your Full Name and Father’s Name.
- PAN Number. (for Indian citizens)
- Date of Birth and Gender.
- Nationality and Citizenship.
- Permanent and Present Address.
- Your registered Mobile Number and Email ID. (You will receive OTPs here)
- DIN Number.
- Aadhaar Number. (optional but useful)
Make sure all details are correct and match your ID proofs.
Step 6: Attach Required Documents
You will need to attach scanned, self-signed copies of:
- PAN card
- Address proof (like Aadhaar, passport, or voter ID)
- Passport (if you are a foreign national)
- Proof of nationality (for non-Indians)
Step 7: Sign and Get the Form Certified
You need to:
- Sign the form digitally using your DSC (Digital Signature Certificate).
- Get the form certified by a professional — either a Chartered Accountant (CA), Company Secretary (CS), or Cost Accountant.
Step 8: Upload the Form to the MCA Portal
Once the form is filled and signed: –
- Log in to the MCA website with your credentials.
- Go to “MCA Services” > “Upload e-Forms.”
- Upload your DIR-3 KYC form.
- There is no fee if you upload it before the deadline.
- After the submission, you will get an SRN (Service Request Number). You can use this to track your submission.
Important Dates and Penalties
| Financial Year | Last Date to File | Late Fee |
| 2024–25 | 30 September 2025 | ₹5,000 |
If you miss the deadline, your DIN will be deactivated, and you will need to pay the penalty to activate it again.
Common Problems and Solutions
Problem: Form not opening
Solution: Use only Adobe Acrobat Reader.
Problem: OTP not received
Solution: Check that your email and phone number are correct and working.
Problem: DSC is not working
Solution: Make sure your Digital Signature Certificate is valid and properly installed.
Problem: Filing not allowed
Solution: Use the correct version of the form. Web-based KYC is allowed only if no personal information has changed since last year.
Conclusion
Filing your director KYC is not tricky, but it is essential. If you have a DIN, make sure you file your KYC before the deadline to avoid penalties. The process is online, free (if done on time), and can be completed in a few simple steps.
If you’re unsure or find it confusing, then it’s a good idea to ask a Chartered Accountant or Company Secretary for help. To stay compliant is not only a legal obligation, but it is also a sign of good business practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I have to file KYC every year?
Yes. It is required every financial year.
2. What if I don’t file it?
Your DIN will get deactivated and you will have to pay ₹5,000 to reactivate it.
3. Can I use the same email or phone number for two directors?
No. Each director must use a unique email ID and phone number.
4. Can foreign directors file KYC?
Yes. They must use their passport and foreign address proof.
5. Can I change my mobile number or email ID?
Yes. You can update it during the KYC process.
