What it is
DIR-3 KYC (eForm) is filed by anyone filing KYC for the first time, or updating an email, mobile, name or address.
DIR-3 KYC-WEB is a simple OTP confirmation for those whose details have not changed since the last KYC.
It applies to every allotted DIN, including disqualified directors and those in companies with no activity.
Under the MCA amendment effective from 31 March 2026, KYC is required once in three years instead of annually.
Who it applies to
- Any individual who holds a DIN as on 31 March of a financial year.
- Applies whether or not the person is currently a director in any company.
- KYC must have been filed at least once in the preceding three financial years.
Documents required
- •PAN and Aadhaar of the director
- •Personal mobile number and email for OTP verification
- •Passport (mandatory for foreign nationals)
- •Class 3 DSC of the director and certification by a practising CA, CS or CMA for the eForm
Step-by-step process
- 1
Decide eForm or web KYC
First-time filers, or anyone changing email, mobile, name or address, must file the DIR-3 KYC eForm. Everyone else can use web KYC.
- 2
Prepare and verify details
Confirm the name, date of birth and address exactly match PAN records — a mismatch is the top rejection cause.
- 3
Complete OTP verification
Separate OTPs are sent to the mobile number and email; both must be verified in the same session.
- 4
Affix DSC and professional certification
For the eForm, the director's DSC and the certifying professional's DSC are both required.
- 5
File before 30 September
Submit on the MCA portal and save the SRN and challan. No fee applies if filed on time.
Fees and timeline
Government fees
Nil if filed by 30 September. A flat ₹5,000 fee applies for filing after the due date to reactivate the DIN.
Typical timeline
Filed and processed the same day in most cases.
Common mistakes and rejection reasons
- PAN name mismatch with MCA records.
- Using an office email or shared mobile — the portal requires the director's personal contact details.
- Assuming web KYC is enough after changing an email address; that requires the full eForm.
- Ignoring KYC for a dormant company — the DIN still gets deactivated.
- Treating the filing as annual under the old rule; the new triennial rule shifts the due date by three years from your last filing.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if DIR-3 KYC is not filed?
The DIN is marked 'Deactivated due to non-filing of DIR-3 KYC' and cannot be used until KYC is filed with a ₹5,000 fee.
Do I need to file if I resigned as a director?
Yes. KYC is linked to the DIN, not to any current directorship.
Is a DSC required for web KYC?
Web KYC requires OTP verification and the director's DSC where prompted; the eForm additionally requires professional certification.
Is DIR-3 KYC still annual?
No. The MCA amended Rule 12A to require KYC once in three years, effective from the financial year 2025-26 onwards.
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This guide is general information on public compliance procedures and is not professional advice for your specific facts. Government fees and timelines change; verify on the official portal before filing.