DIR-3 KYC (Director KYC) Filing Guide 2025: Due Date, Process & Documents

Introduction to Director KYC (DIR-3 KYC)

If you’re a company director in India, you can’t just get your Director Identification Number (DIN) and disappear into the corporate sunset. Every year, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) wants you to check in through something called Director KYC officially known as DIR-3 KYC. Think of it as the MCA’s way of saying, “Hey, we still need to know you’re you!”

This isn’t just bureaucratic red tape. The process ensures your personal details in the MCA records are accurate and up to date, helping maintain transparency in India’s corporate ecosystem. Whether you’re leading a Fortune 500 or a sleepy little startup, if you have a DIN, this annual ritual is part of your corporate hygiene.

What is DIR-3 KYC and Its Legal Basis?

DIR-3 KYC is the official name for a director’s yearly identity check-in with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). In simple terms, it’s an Annual KYC process where every director submits their personal KYC details like name, address, contact information, and identification documents so the MCA can keep its records squeaky clean and up to date.

This requirement isn’t just a suggestion; it’s the law. The filing of Form DIR-3 KYC is mandated under Rule 12A and Rule 11(2) & (3) of The Companies (Appointment and Qualification of Directors) Rules, 2014. Miss it, and you’re not just breaking compliance; your DIN could get deactivated faster than you can say “late fee.”

Who is Required to File DIR-3 KYC? (Applicability)

If you’ve been allotted a Director Identification Number (DIN), chances are you’re on the MCA’s annual “to-do” list. The DIR-3 KYC filing is mandatory for every director whose DIN is in approved status whether you’re actively sitting in a boardroom or just holding that DIN in your back pocket.

Here’s the golden rule: if you had a DIN on or before the end of a financial year, you must complete this annual filing before 30th September of the next financial year. And yes, this applies even if:

1. You’re a director of a company or a designated partner in an LLP.
2. Your DIN is “disqualified.”
3. You’ve never actually used your DIN for any appointment.

The only real exception? If your DIN was issued after March 31 of a financial year, you can skip the KYC for that year. Enjoy the free pass and it won't last forever.

Types of DIR-3 KYC Forms

When it comes to DIR-3 KYC, the MCA gives you two routes, think of them like an express lane and the regular lane. Both update the same official record, but the who/when/how is different. The two types are:

1) e-Form DIR-3 KYC (the full form - use this when you need to file or update)

This is the full, formal e-form on the MCA portal and is used when a director is filing KYC for the first time after DIN allotment or when the director needs to change / update any KYC details (mobile, email, PAN, address, passport, etc.). If you must actually change something in MCA’s records, this is the form you file. 

Key points about the e-Form:

• Who must use it: First-time filers and anyone who needs to update existing KYC details.
• Signatures needed: The director must affix their own Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) on the e-Form. In addition, the form must be certified and digitally signed by a practising professional (CA / CS / Cost Accountant). So director’s DSC + professional’s DSC = required.
• Attachments & verification: You’ll upload identity/address docs (PAN, Aadhaar/passport, proof of address) and complete required verifications (PAN verification, etc.). The MCA validates the details during processing.
• When used for corrections: If your mobile number or email has changed (or any other KYC field needs correction), you cannot use the simple web verification you must file the e-Form. 

Practical tip: Treat the e-Form like a mini-audit: have your DSC ready and loop in the practising professional early so you don’t get stuck at the final signing step. 

2) DIR-3 KYC (Web) - the quick verification (use this only if nothing changed)

The Web variant is the light, faster path. It’s intended for directors who have already filed DIR-3 KYC previously and whose KYC details remain unchanged during the relevant year. The MCA pre-fills the director’s last-recorded details and all you do is verify and submit  no DSC dance required.

Key points about the Web form:

1. Who uses it: Repeat filers with no changes to their KYC details from the previous filing.
2. No DSC required: The web-service does not require the director’s DSC or the professional’s DSC. It’s an OTP + confirm flow. (Yes quick and painless if you truly have no changes.) 
3. Pre-filled data: The form is pre-populated from MCA’s database and generally cannot be edited in the web interface. If you need to change any field, you must fall back to the e-Form.

Practical tip: don’t try to “sneak in” changes via web form; the portal won’t allow edits to pre-filled fields. If your phone or email has changed, switch to the e-Form route.

OTP Verification & Unique Contact Info (applies to both routes where contact is being confirmed)

Whether you’re entering contact details in the e-Form or verifying via web, the MCA requires a unique personal mobile number and email for each director and those contacts are verified through OTP verification. Separate OTPs are sent for mobile and email and must be completed as part of the process. If you change contact details, expect OTP checks when updating.

Quick side-by-side summary

1. Use e-Form DIR-3 KYC → First time filing or when you must update details. Requires director’s DSC + practising professional’s DSC.
2. Use DIR-3 KYC (Web) → You’ve filed earlier and nothing has changed. Pre-filled, no DSC; confirm via OTP.

DIR KYC Due Date – Don’t Miss the Clock!

When it comes to compliance, the DIR KYC due date isn’t just a friendly suggestion, it's a hard stop set by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). Miss it, and you’re looking at penalties, DIN deactivation, and possibly a mini heart attack when you can’t sign important documents.

For every director holding a valid Director Identification Number (DIN), the KYC last date is September 30th of every financial year. This means you must complete and submit your DIR-3 KYC (whether via e-Form or Web-Form) before the clock strikes midnight on that day.

Why so strict? Because MCA wants up-to-date KYC details, email, mobile number, address so they can keep the corporate ecosystem clean and free from ghost directors. Annual filing ensures your DIN stays “Approved” and active.

Pro tip: Don’t wait until September 29th. Government portals have an uncanny ability to “crash” right when the entire country is filing. Start early, submit smoothly, and spend September 30th sipping chai instead of refreshing MCA’s page.

Consequences of Not Filing DIR-3 KYC by the Due Date

Miss your DIR-3 KYC deadline, and the MCA won’t just send you a polite reminder. Nope your DIN will be deactivated. Think of it as your corporate passport getting temporarily revoked until you prove you’re still you. Once deactivated, you lose all director privileges tied to that DIN, and your ability to legally act as a director is put on pause.

What Does Deactivation Mean?

A deactivated DIN means:

1. You can’t sign documents or file any company forms linked to that DIN.
2. Your status on the MCA portal changes to ‘Deactivated due to Non-filing of DIR-3 KYC’.
3. It can affect your company’s compliance rating and invite scrutiny from regulators.

In short, deactivation isn’t just an inconvenience it’s a full stop on your director powers.

How to Reactivate Your DIN?

Don’t panic, you can get your DIN back, but it’s a process and it involves a late fee of ₹5,000. This fee applies if you file your DIR-3 KYC after the 30th September due date. Here’s the drill:

1. File the DIR-3 KYC form immediately (via e-Form, since you missed the deadline).
2. Pay the ₹5,000 late fee during the filing process.
3. Once approved, the MCA will reactivate your DIN, restoring your director status.

But Beware:

1. The longer you delay, the more it can impact your standing.
2. Repeated defaults could lead to further legal complications, including penalties on the company itself.

Why the MCA is Strict About This

The MCA’s goal is clear: keeping an accurate, current database of directors prevents fraud, ghost directorships, and maintains transparency in corporate India. That’s why filing DIR-3 KYC on time isn’t just paperwork, it's your ticket to staying in the game legally.

Documents Required for Filing DIR-3 KYC

Filing your DIR-3 KYC isn’t just about clicking “Submit” on the MCA portal; you need to back it up with some important documents. Think of it like showing your ID at airport security, but for your corporate identity. Having these ready will make your filing smooth and headache-free.

Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Aadhaar Card: If you’re an Indian resident with an Aadhaar, this is your primary identity proof. It links your biometric and demographic info, making verification easier. If you don’t have Aadhaar, don’t worry there are alternatives.
2. PAN Number: This is mandatory for all Indian citizens filing DIR-3 KYC. The MCA cross-verifies your PAN with the Income Tax Department’s database, so accuracy here is crucial.
3. Permanent Address Proof: Documents like your Voter ID, Driving License, or Passport work well here.
4. Present Address Proof: Recent utility bills (electricity, water, telephone) or a valid rental agreement dated within the last two months.
5. Passport: For foreign nationals or where Aadhaar isn’t applicable, your passport acts as proof of identity and address.
6. Digital Signature Certificate (DSC): This is a must-have for the director filing the e-Form DIR-3 KYC. Remember, your DSC is your electronic signature and proves it’s really you submitting the form. Without it, your filing won’t fly.
7. Practicing Professional’s DSC and Details: If you’re filing the e-Form, a practising professional (CA, CS, or Cost Accountant) must digitally sign and certify the form. Their DSC and membership details are also required.

Pro tip: Keep scanned copies of these documents handy before you start the filing; it saves you from scrambling mid-way and risking errors or delays.

Key Checkpoints and Mandatory Requirements for Filing DIR-3 KYC

Filing your DIR-3 KYC isn’t just about ticking boxes; there are some essential checkpoints that make sure the process is secure, authentic, and legally valid. Let’s break down the must-haves you absolutely can’t overlook.

1. Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) - Your Electronic Passport

When you file the e-Form DIR-3 KYC, your Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is non-negotiable. Think of it as your digital autograph that proves it’s really you behind the filing. The MCA won’t accept your form without it.

But wait, there’s more. The form also needs to be digitally signed by a practicing professional such as a Chartered Accountant (CA), Company Secretary (CS), or Cost Accountant. This dual-signature system ensures both authenticity and expert certification, making the process legally watertight.

If you don’t have a DSC yet, get one early. It takes time to issue, and delays can mess with your filing schedule.

2. Practicing Professional Certification - The MCA’s Seal of Approval

Your chosen professional (CA, CS, or Cost Accountant) doesn’t just slap a signature on the form for show. They are certifying that your KYC details are correct to the best of their knowledge and that you’ve submitted genuine documents.

This adds an important layer of responsibility and trust, keeping the system free from fraud and errors. So, make sure your professional’s membership number and Certificate of Practice (COP) number are ready to include in the form.

3. OTP Verification - MCA’s Way of Saying ‘You There?’

To prevent identity mix-ups and ensure unique contact details, the MCA mandates OTP verification for both your mobile number and email address.

During filing, you’ll receive separate OTPs (One-Time Passwords) on your registered mobile and email. You must enter these correctly to confirm your details. This process applies whether you’re filing the full e-Form or the simpler Web-Form.

Importantly, the mobile number and email must be unique to you and not linked to any other DIN holder in MCA’s database. This avoids confusion and fraud.

4. PAN Number Verification - Your Tax Identity Check

For Indian citizens, declaring and verifying your Permanent Account Number (PAN) is mandatory during DIR-3 KYC. The MCA cross-checks your PAN against the Income Tax Department’s database to confirm authenticity.

If your PAN details don’t match or are missing, your filing will face rejection, so double-check this before submission.

Quick Recap

1. DSC of director + practising professional required for e-Form
2. Unique mobile and email verified via OTP
3. Professional’s membership and COP numbers mandatory
4. Accurate PAN number essential for smooth filing

Keeping these checkpoints in mind will ensure your DIR-3 KYC filing sails through smoothly without last-minute hiccups or rejections.

Step-by-Step Guide to File e-Form DIR-3 KYC

Filing your Form DIR-3 KYC might seem daunting, but breaking it down step-by-step makes the process as smooth as your morning chai. Whether you’re filing the full e-Form or the simpler Web-Form, here’s your foolproof guide to get it right the first time.

Step 1: Register and Login on the MCA Website

Head over to the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) portal at www.mca.gov.in. If you don’t already have an account, you’ll need to register with your email and set a strong password. If registered, simply log in with your credentials.

Step 2: Navigate to DIR-3 KYC Filing Section

Once logged in, go to:
 MCA Services → Company e-Filing → DIN Related Services → DIR-3 KYC or DIR-3 KYC (Web).

Here, you’ll choose the form based on your filing needs:

1. Pick e-Form DIR-3 KYC if it’s your first filing or you’re updating any KYC details.
2. Pick Web-Form DIR-3 KYC if you’ve filed before and have no changes.

Step 3: Enter DIN, Mobile Number, and Email ID

Type in your Director Identification Number (DIN), along with your personal mobile number and email address. These must be unique and not linked to any other DIN holders.

You’ll receive separate OTP verifications on your mobile and email. Enter the OTPs carefully to confirm your identity. This step is crucial to prevent fraud and confirm you’re the rightful director filing the form.

Step 4: Fill in or Verify KYC Details

1. For e-Form filers: You’ll enter your personal details like Name, Father’s Name, Nationality, Date of Birth, Gender, PAN Number, Aadhaar Number, Permanent and Present Address, etc. You can also upload supporting documents such as PAN card, Aadhaar, passport, and address proofs.
2. For Web-Form filers: Most of this information will be pre-filled and cannot be edited. You just need to verify and confirm its accuracy.

Remember to click “Verify Income-Tax PAN” if you’re an Indian citizen this checks your PAN’s validity in real time.

Step 5: Upload Required Documents

Attach scanned copies of all required documents (Aadhaar, PAN, address proof, passport, etc.) as per the MCA’s specifications. Ensure the scans are clear and the files meet size and format requirements; blurry or wrong formats can cause rejection or delays.

Step 6: DSC Signing and Professional Certification

1. For the e-Form, you need to affix your Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) to the form.
2. The form must also be digitally signed and certified by a practising professional (CA, CS, or Cost Accountant) using their DSC.

If you don’t have a DSC or your professional isn’t ready, pause and get this sorted the MCA won’t accept the form without these digital signatures.

Step 7: Submit and Note the SRN

Once everything looks good, hit the Submit button. On successful submission, the MCA portal will generate a Service Request Number (SRN).

Save this SRN safely - it’s your proof of filing and will be required for any future correspondence with MCA regarding your DIR-3 KYC.

Step 8: Confirmation Email

Shortly after submission, MCA will send a confirmation email to your registered email ID, confirming the receipt and acceptance of your DIR-3 KYC form.

Pro tip: Always double-check your entries and attached documents before submitting. Mistakes mean rejection, and rejection means extra fees, delays, and a very unhappy director (that’s you).

Process After Form Submission

After you’ve successfully submitted your DIR-3 KYC form on the MCA portal, the process isn’t quite over but the heavy lifting is done. Here’s what happens next:

1. Service Request Number (SRN) Generation: As soon as your form is submitted, the MCA system generates a unique Service Request Number (SRN). This SRN is your golden ticket. Keep it safe because you’ll need it to track your filing status or for any future communications with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).
2. Verification by MCA: The MCA reviews your submitted KYC details and attached documents to ensure everything is accurate and compliant. This verification can take a few days, so a little patience helps here.
3. Email Confirmation: Once the MCA approves your submission, you’ll receive an official confirmation email at your registered email address. This email signals that your DIR-3 KYC is complete and your DIN remains active and in good standing.
4. DIN Status Update: Post approval, your DIN status on the MCA portal will reflect the latest KYC filing. If you filed before the due date, your DIN remains “Approved” and ready for all your directorial duties.

In short, once you get that confirmation, you can breathe easy knowing you’re fully compliant at least until next year’s DIR-3 KYC reminder rolls around!

Quick Facts :

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on DIR-3 KYC

1. What is the DIR KYC due date in 2025?
   The DIR KYC due date for 2025 is 30th September. All directors must file their DIR-3 KYC before this date to avoid penalties.
    
2. What happens if DIN is deactivated due to non-filing of DIR-3 KYC?
   If your DIN is deactivated, you lose director privileges and cannot file any company documents until you reactivate it by submitting DIR-3 KYC with a late fee of ₹5,000.
    
3. How to file DIR-3 KYC online through the MCA portal?
   You can file DIR-3 KYC online by logging into the MCA portal and submitting the e-Form DIR-3 KYC or using the Web-Form if no details have changed.
    
4. Is Aadhaar mandatory for DIR-3 KYC filing?
   Yes, Aadhaar is mandatory for Indian directors during DIR-3 KYC filing unless they do not have one, in which case alternative documents like a passport can be used.
    
5. What documents are required for filing DIR-3 KYC?
   Documents such as Aadhaar Card, PAN Number, proof of address, and Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) are required to file DIR-3 KYC.
    
6. Who is required to file DIR-3 KYC annually?
   Every director with an approved DIN allotted on or before March 31st of the financial year must file DIR-3 KYC annually.
    
7. Can I file DIR-3 KYC if my DIN was allotted after March 31st?
   No, directors who received their DIN after March 31st of the financial year are generally exempted from filing DIR-3 KYC for that year.
    
8. What is the late fee for filing DIR-3 KYC after the due date?
   A late fee of ₹5,000 applies for filing DIR-3 KYC after the 30th September due date.
    
9. What is the difference between e-Form DIR-3 KYC and Web-Form DIR-3 KYC?
   The e-Form is for first-time filings or updates requiring DSC and professional certification, while the Web-Form is for repeat filers with no changes, requiring only OTP verification.
    
10. Do I need a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) for DIR-3 KYC?
    Yes, DSC is mandatory for the director and the practicing professional when filing the e-Form DIR-3 KYC.
     
11. How does OTP verification work during DIR-3 KYC filing?
    OTP verification is required on your registered mobile number and email to confirm your identity and ensure unique contact details.
     
12. What is the legal basis for DIR-3 KYC filing?
    DIR-3 KYC filing is mandated under Rule 12A and Rule 11(2) and (3) of The Companies (Appointment and Qualification of Directors) Rules, 2014.
     
13. Can I update my mobile number and email during DIR-3 KYC filing?
    Yes, but if you update any KYC details, you must file the e-Form DIR-3 KYC which requires DSC and professional certification.
     
14. What happens after submitting the DIR-3 KYC form?
    After submission, MCA generates a Service Request Number (SRN), verifies your details, and upon approval sends a confirmation email indicating your DIR-3 KYC is complete.
     
15. Is DIR-3 KYC filing required for foreign nationals?
    Yes, foreign nationals holding a DIN must file DIR-3 KYC with applicable KYC details, and if no PAN is available, their name must match their DSC for verification.