How To File DIR 3 KYC Online?

Filing DIR-3 KYC is a crucial compliance requirement for all directors in India, mandated by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). If you're wondering how to file DIR-3 KYC, this process ensures that your Director Identification Number (DIN) remains active and valid. It helps verify your personal and contact details, enhancing the credibility of the corporate governance system. Whether you're a first-time filer or updating your existing details, understanding the steps involved in filing DIR-3 KYC is essential to avoid penalties and ensure compliance with MCA regulations. 

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about DIR-3 KYC for 2025, from eligibility and required documents to a detailed step-by-step filing process, deadlines, fees, penalties, and common mistakes to avoid. With this knowledge, you can confidently meet compliance requirements, protect your DIN, and continue your directorial duties without interruption.

What This Blog Covers:

• What is DIR-3 KYC?
• Types of DIR-3 KYC Filings
• Who Needs to File DIR-3 KYC?
• Prerequisites for Filing DIR-3 KYC
• How to File DIR-3 KYC Online: Step-by-Step Process
• Fees and Penalties for Late Filing
• Key Difference Between eForm and Web-Based DIR-3 KYC
• Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

What Is DIR-3 KYC?

DIR-3 KYC (Director Identification Number – Know Your Customer) is an annual compliance requirement introduced by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), India. It mandates that every individual who holds a valid DIN (Director Identification Number) as of 31st March of a financial year must submit or verify their personal and contact details with the MCA by 30th September of the same year.

The core purpose is to verify the identity and communication details (such as PAN, Aadhaar, email ID, and mobile number) of directors, thereby:

• Preventing misuse of DINs through impersonation or fictitious appointments
• Ensuring the authenticity of director credentials
• Strengthening corporate governance through a reliable, up-to-date database

Introduced Under the MCA Compliance Framework

DIR-3 KYC was launched in 2018 as part of the MCA’s broader compliance and anti-shell company initiatives. It is a key element of the regulatory framework aimed at:

• Enhancing the credibility of filings on the official MCA portal
• Ensuring only legitimate, traceable individuals act as directors
• Enforcing periodic accountability even for inactive DIN holders

Importantly, KYC filing is mandatory even if the DIN holder is not currently serving on any company’s board, as long as the DIN remains in "Approved" status.

Legal Backing Under Companies Act, 2013

The legal foundation for DIR-3 KYC lies in the following provisions:

• Rule 12A of the Companies (Appointment and Qualification of Directors) Rules, 2014, inserted via Notification G.S.R. 529(E), dated 5th July 2018, Mandates annual KYC for DIN holders as of 31st March, to be filed by 30th September.
• Section 153 of the Companies Act, 2013 mandates that every individual intending to be appointed as a director must obtain a DIN as per the procedure prescribed by the Central Government.
• Section 164 in The Companies Act, 2013 allows for the disqualification of directors who fail to comply with statutory obligations, including non-filing of DIR-3 KYC.
• Rule 11(2) and Rule 12A of the Companies (Appointment and Qualification of Directors) Rules, 2014 empower the MCA to deactivate a DIN for KYC non-compliance and impose a penalty of ₹5,000 for delayed filing.

Types Of DIR-3 KYC Filings

The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) offers two different modes for directors to file their annual KYC, depending on whether the individual is filing for the first time or revalidating previously submitted details. Understanding which form applies to your situation is key to ensuring correct and timely compliance.

1. DIR-3 KYC Form

This is the detailed, downloadable eForm used when there is a need to file KYC with new or updated information.

Official MCA Form:

• Form DIR-3 KYC

Applicable When:

• You are filing DIR-3 KYC for the first time.
• Your contact or identity details (email, mobile number, PAN, address, etc.) have changed since your last filing.
• Your DIN is deactivated due to past non-filing and needs reactivation.

Key Points:

• Mandatory to attach self-attested documents (PAN, Aadhaar, address proof).
• Requires the director’s DSC (Digital Signature Certificate).
• Must be certified by a practising Chartered Accountant (CA), Company Secretary (CS), or Cost Accountant (CMA).

2. DIR-3 KYC Web

This is a simplified, web-based mode for directors who have already submitted their KYC in any of the previous years and have no changes to report.

Official MCA Link to Apply:

• Form DIR-3 KYC Web

Applicable When:

• You have already filed DIR-3 KYC at least once.
• Your details remain unchanged, and DIN is in “Approved” status.

Key Points:

• No document upload or professional certification needed.
• No DSC requirement.
• Only OTP verification is required on your registered email ID and mobile number.

KYC Requirements

Your KYC filing requirement depends on your DIN status and any changes in your details. The table below explains what to file in each case.

Who Needs To File DIR-3 KYC?

The obligation to file DIR-3 KYC applies to every individual who holds a valid and active Director Identification Number (DIN) as on 31st March of a financial year. This remains mandatory even if the individual is no longer serving as a director or has resigned from all companies. Until the DIN is formally surrendered or deactivated, annual KYC compliance must be fulfilled.

Mandatory Filers:

• Individuals allotted a DIN on or before 31st March of the relevant financial year.
• DIN holders whose DIN status is “Approved” on the MCA system.
• Directors and designated partners in LLPs with active DINs.

Note: Even inactive directors or those not currently appointed in any company must file DIR-3 KYC if their DIN remains active.

Who Is Exempt?

• New DIN holders who received their DIN after 1st April of the current financial year.
• Individuals whose DIN has been surrendered, cancelled, or deactivated (not in "Approved" status).

Also Read : How to apply for a DIN?

Prerequisites For Filing DIR-3 KYC

Before initiating the DIR-3 KYC filing, whether using the form-based method or the simplified web-based option, it is crucial to ensure you meet all the prerequisites. This preparation helps avoid processing delays, rejections, or penalties.

1. Valid Director Identification Number (DIN) and Its Status

• Your DIN must be in “Approved” status on the MCA portal as of 31st March of the relevant financial year.
• To verify, visit the MCA DIN Search Portal and enter your DIN or PAN.
• If your DIN shows “Deactivated due to non-filing of KYC,” you must file DIR-3 KYC using the form method and pay a ₹5,000 penalty to reactivate your DIN.
• Note: DIR-3 KYC Web filing is not available for deactivated DINs or first-time filers.

2. Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)

• A valid Class 2 or Class 3 DSC issued in the individual director’s name is mandatory only for DIR-3 KYC Form filings (not required for web-based filings).
• The DSC must be registered and linked to your MCA user ID. You can check and associate it via the MCA Portal > MCA Services > DSC Service V3.
• Ensure your DSC is current and not expired, as expired or unregistered DSCs are common reasons for form rejection.

3. Required Documents for DIR-3 KYC (Form-Based Filing)

As part of the form-based DIR-3 KYC filing process, directors are required to upload clear, scanned, and self-attested copies of certain personal documents to authenticate their identity and current contact details. These documents help the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) verify the legitimacy of the director’s credentials and ensure that the information in the official records is accurate and up-to-date.

The required documents include:

• Document Guidelines: All documents should be in PDF format, legible, and self-attested on every page.
• The certifying professional must include their membership number, certificate of practice, and a valid digital signature.
• Foreign nationals residing abroad must provide notarised or apostilled copies of their identity and address proofs.

How To File DIR-3 KYC Online: Step-by-Step Process

Filing DIR-3 KYC online depends on your compliance history. First-time filers or those updating details (like mobile/email) must use the eForm DIR-3 KYC (PDF-based). If you’ve already filed it last year and no changes are needed, you can opt for the simpler DIR-3 KYC Web (browser-based) method. Choosing the right option ensures a smooth, penalty-free filing process.

Option 1: Filing DIR-3 KYC

This method is mandatory if:

• You are filing for the first time, or
• Your email ID, mobile number, or any personal details have changed since your last filing.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Download eForm DIR-3 KYC

• Go to the MCA Portal.
• Navigate to MCA Services > Company e-Filing > Company Forms Download.
• Download the latest DIR-3 KYC form and the Instruction Kit.

Step 2: Fill in the Director’s Details

• Open the form in Adobe Reader.
• Fill in details such as:
• • Director Identification Number (DIN) (must be in 'Approved' status)
  • Full Name (as per PAN)
  • Father’s Name
  • Nationality
  • Date of Birth (DD/MM/YYYY)
  • Permanent and Present Address
  • Mobile Number and Email ID
• Mobile and email will be OTP-verified later.

Step 3: Attach Required Documents, Attach self-attested scanned copies of:

• PAN (for Indian nationals)
• Aadhaar / Passport (for foreign nationals)
• Address Proof (latest utility bill, bank statement, or official ID)
• Passport-size colour photograph

Step 4: Verify Using OTPs

• Click on "Generate OTP" for both email and mobile.
• Enter the received OTPs within 15 minutes.
• Ensure the contact details match previous filings or MCA records.

Step 5: Affix Digital Signature

• Affix the DSC of the Director (must be registered on the MCA portal).
• The form must also be digitally certified by a practising professional:
• • CA (Chartered Accountant)
  • CS (Company Secretary)
  • CMA (Cost Accountant)
• Include the Membership Number, COP Number, and their DSC.

Step 6: Upload the eForm

• Log in to the MCA Portal with your credentials.
• Upload the filled and digitally signed DIR-3 KYC form.
• If your DIN was deactivated for non-compliance, you must pay a penalty of ₹5,000 online before proceeding.

Step 7: SRN Generation & Acknowledgement

• After a successful upload, a Service Request Number (SRN) will be generated.
• Track the status via MCA Services > Track SRN / Transaction Status.
• Download and save the acknowledgement for future reference.

Option 2: DIR-3 KYC Web

This option is quicker and paperless, but is only available if:

• You filed KYC last year,
• Your mobile number and email ID have not changed, and
• Your DIN is still in 'Approved' status.
• Source: Instruction Kit for Form No. DIR-3-KYC (PDF)

Steps to File DIR-3 KYC Web:

Step 1: Access the DIR-3 KYC Web Service

• Go to the MCA DIR-3 KYC Web Filing Page.
• Navigate to MCA Services > Company e-Filing > DIN Related Forms > Form DIR-3 KYC Web

Step 2: Enter DIN and Verify OTPs

• Enter your DIN.
• The portal auto-fills your registered mobile number and email ID.
• Click "Send OTP" for both.
• Enter the received OTPs to validate.

Step 3: Submit the Verification

• Tick the declaration checkbox.
• Click Submit.
• Upon successful submission, a Service Request Number (SRN) is generated.
• Download the acknowledgement receipt.

Note: No DSC or professional certification is required for the Web KYC method.

Fees And Penalties For Late Filing

Filing of DIR-3 KYC (either through the eForm or Web-based route) is statutorily mandated under Rule 12A of the Companies (Appointment and Qualification of Directors) Rules, 2014, as amended. While the filing itself attracts no fee if completed within the prescribed timeline, any delay leads to automatic DIN deactivation and imposition of a penalty, regardless of the cause.

Statutory Deadline for DIR-3 KYC Filing

Illustration: For the financial year ending 31st March 2025, the KYC must be filed on or before 30th September 2025.

Filing Fee and Penalty Structure

While there is no government fee for filing DIR-3 KYC within the due date, non-compliance attracts a strict monetary penalty. The table below outlines the applicable fee structure and consequences based on your filing status:

Note: The penalty of ₹5,000 is mandatory and non-discretionary, even in cases of unintentional delay, change in employment, resignation, or inactive directorship status.

Legal Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with the annual DIR-3 KYC filing requirement results in:

• Immediate deactivation of the Director Identification Number (DIN) under Rule 11(2) of the Companies (Appointment and Qualification of Directors) Rules, 2014.
• Ineligibility to file statutory forms with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (e.g., DIR-12, MGT-7, AOC-4, etc.).
• Obstruction in corporate compliance functions, including:
• • Filing of returns and resolutions
  • Director appointment/resignation processes
  • Company incorporation and registration activities
  • ROC correspondence and submissions
• Risk of disqualification under Section 164(2) of the Companies Act, 2013, for continued non-compliance.

Key Difference Between eForm DIR-3 KYC And Web-Based KYC

The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) offers two distinct modes for directors to comply with their annual KYC requirements: eForm DIR-3 KYC and Web-Based DIR-3 KYC. These differ in terms of eligibility, filing method, documentation, and professional involvement. Selecting the appropriate method ensures smooth compliance and prevents rejection or DIN deactivation.

Common Mistakes And How To Avoid Them?

Despite being a routine compliance requirement, many directors face rejection, DIN deactivation, or penalties due to preventable errors while filing DIR-3 KYC. Below is a refined list of the most frequent mistakes, their consequences, and expert tips to help avoid them.

1. Filing the Wrong KYC Form

Mistake: Using the Web-Based KYC when you’re a first-time filer, need to update details, or your DIN is deactivated.
Consequence: Rejection of filing or failure to reactivate DIN.
How to Avoid: Use eForm DIR-3 KYC if you are a first-time filer, updating mobile/email, or reactivating a deactivated DIN.

2. Expired or Invalid DSC

Mistake: Using a DSC that is expired, not linked with MCA, or in the incorrect name.
Consequence: Validation error; form cannot be submitted.
How to Avoid:

• Renew DSC in advance.
• Link DSC to your MCA login ID.
• Ensure the DSC name matches the PAN and MCA records.

3. Incorrect or Incomplete Documents

Mistake: Uploading blurred, outdated, or unsigned documents.
Consequence: Filing rejection or delay.
How to Avoid:

• Use clear, recent (within 60 days) documents.
• Self-attest all pages before upload.

4. Mismatch in Name or PAN Details

Mistake: Name entered does not match with PAN or MCA database.
Consequence: Form validation failure.
How to Avoid:

• Match the name spelling with the PAN card.
• Cross-check the MCA Master Data before filing.
• Use Form DIR-6 to correct discrepancies.

5. Missing Professional Certification (for eForm)

Mistake: Form not digitally signed by a qualified CA/CS/CMA with valid credentials.
Consequence: Non-compliance; rejection.
How to Avoid: Engage a practising professional with a valid Membership No. and COP No.

6. Late Filing or Missed Deadline

Mistake: Filing after 30th September or assuming there’s no consequence.
Consequence: DIN deactivation and ₹5,000 penalty.
How to Avoid:

• Set compliance alerts.
• Prefer early filing (April–August) to avoid last-minute delays.

7. Ignoring OTP or Not Completing Submission

Mistake: Missing the OTP step during web-based KYC.
Consequence: Filing marked incomplete.
How to Avoid: Keep phone/email accessible and enter OTP promptly.

Conclusion

how to file DIR-3 KYC is an essential step for directors to ensure their DIN remains valid and compliant with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs’ regulations. Whether you are filing for the first time or updating your details, it's critical to follow the right procedure and avoid common mistakes that could lead to penalties or deactivation of your DIN. By understanding the requirements and timelines, you can easily navigate the filing process and maintain the integrity of your director status. Always remember, timely filing helps streamline corporate operations and avoids unnecessary legal hassles in the future.