Every director of a company registered in India is required to file DIR-3 KYC form annually with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. This process ensures that the government maintains updated records of directors’ personal details, and it helps in avoiding fraud or misuse of Director Identification Numbers (DINs). Failing to complete DIR-3 KYC on time can lead to the deactivation of the director’s DIN and attract penalties.
In this article, we will guide you about who needs to file DIR-3 KYC, the documents required, the step-by-step online filing process, fees, the consequences of non-compliance, and various other important elements.
What is DIR-3 KYC?
DIR-3 KYC is an annual compliance form that every individual holding a DIN (Director Identification Number) as on 31st March of the financial year must file to keep their DIN active. The form collects personal information like name, address, PAN, email ID, mobile number, and other KYC details.
Who Needs to File DIR-3 KYC?
- All directors with an approved DIN as on 31st March of the financial year, whether they are currently active in a company or not.
- DIN holders who obtained their DIN in previous years but have not filed KYC previously, or whose DIN has been deactivated due to non-filing.
- Individuals holding DINs but who were disqualified as directors still need to file DIR-3 KYC.
Two Types of DIR-3 KYC Forms
- DIR-3 KYC (Form): For those filing KYC for the first time or if any information such as mobile number or email has changed since the last KYC.
- DIR-3 KYC WEB: For those who have already filed DIR-3 KYC once and do not have any changes in their details. This form allows easy KYC verification online without uploading documents.
Documents Required for DIR-3 KYC Form Filing
Before starting the process, keep these documents ready:
- Self-attested PAN card copies (mandatory for Indian citizens)
- Self-attested passport copy (mandatory for foreign nationals, optional for Indian citizens if issued by an authority)
- Self-attested Aadhaar card copy (mandatory for Indian citizens)
- Current address proof – utility bill/bank statement/rent agreement not older than 2 months.
- Personal email ID and mobile number – OTPs will be sent for verification
- Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) of the director
- Professionally attested documents – documents must be certified by a practicing Chartered Accountant (CA), Company Secretary (CS), or Cost Accountant (CMA)
Fees for DIR-3 KYC
- No government fee if filed within the due date, usually 30th September each year.
- Late filing fee: 5000 if filed after the prescribed due date…!
Step-by-Step Guide to File DIR-3 KYC Online
Step 1: Download the DIR-3 KYC Form
- Visit the official Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) portal at www.mca.gov.in
- Navigate to MCA Services → DIN Services → DIR-3 KYC
- Download the latest DIR-3 KYC e-Form
Step 2: Fill in Personal Details
- Open the downloaded form using the latest version of Adobe Acrobat Reader.
- Enter your DIN number.
- Fill in your full name, father’s name, date of birth, nationality, PAN, and personal mobile number and email ID.
Step 3: Enter Address Details
- Enter your present permanent and current residential addresses.
- Make sure they match your proof of address documents.
Step 4: Verify Mobile and Email via OTP
- Once the mobile number and email ID are entered, you need to click on the button in the form that says “Verify OTP”.
- You will receive separate OTPs on the mobile number and email ID entered. Enter them correctly to complete verification.
Step 5: Attach Required Documents
- Upload scanned self-attested copies of PAN, Aadhaar, passport (if applicable), and address proof.
- Make sure the file size and format comply with MCA guidelines.
Step 6: Add Professional Certification
- A practicing professional (CA/CS/CMA) must certify your form.
- The certifying professional will fill in their details and attach their DSC.
Step 7: Affix Digital Signature
- Affix your own DSC on the form.
- Make sure the DSC is registered with the MCA portal and is valid.
Step 8: Check Form and Generate Pre-scrutiny
- Click the “Check Form” button to verify the form for errors.
- After validation, click “Pre-scrutiny” to generate the final version for upload…!
Step 9: Upload the Form on the MCA Portal
- Login to the MCA portal using your credentials.
- Navigate to MCA Services → Upload e-Forms
- Upload your duly filled DIR-3 KYC form.
- Once uploaded successfully, you will receive a Service Request Number (SRN) as acknowledgement.
Step 10: Track Status
- You can track the status of your DIR-3 KYC filing by using the SRN on the MCA portal.
Filing DIR-3 KYC WEB (For Already Compliant Directors)
- Go to MCA portal → MCA Services → DIN Services → DIR-3 KYC Web
- Enter your DIN number.
- Verify the OTP sent to your registered mobile and email.
- Confirm pre-filled details. If everything is correct, submit directly.
- No document upload or DSC required.
Consequences of Not Filing DIR-3 KYC
- Deactivation of DIN: Your DIN will be marked as “Deactivated due to non-filing of DIR-3 KYC”.
- Late fees: A penalty of INR 5000 must be paid along with the KYC form to reactivate your DIN.
- Disqualification risk: Continued non-compliance could lead to further action under the Companies Act, 2013.
- Inability to act as director: A deactivated DIN prevents you from signing board resolutions, annual filings, or representing the company legally.
Points to Remember
- Filing must be done annually, even if there are no changes in your details.
- Make sure your personal mobile number and email ID are unique and not shared with other directors.
- Avoid mistakes in the form – incorrect details may cause rejection and delay.
- File before the due date every year to avoid late fees.
Conclusion
Filing DIR-3 KYC online is a simple but mandatory compliance requirement for every director in India. By completing the entire process on time, you can ensure your DIN remains active, avoid unwanted penalties and stay compliant with the Companies Act. Gather your documents, fill out the form carefully, and submit it online before the deadline to stay stress-free and maintain your good standing as a director, allowing you to conduct your business with focus.
