DIN REGISTRATION

DIN REGISTRATION 

A Director Identification Number (DIN) is a unique 8-digit identification number issued by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) to individuals who intend to be appointed as directors of a company. It is a mandatory requirement under the Companies Act, 2013, ensuring transparency and accountability in corporate governance.

Who needs a DIN?

Any individual who wishes to be appointed as a director in a company must obtain a DIN. A single DIN is valid for a director's lifetime and is required even if they serve on the board of multiple companies.

DIN application process

The method for obtaining a DIN differs depending on whether you are forming a new company or being appointed to an existing one. All applications are submitted electronically through the MCA portal.

For newly incorporated companies:

• You can apply for a DIN for up to three proposed first directors through the integrated SPICe+ form during the company incorporation process.
• The DIN will be allotted along with the Certificate of Incorporation.

For appointment in an existing company:

1. Obtain a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC): Before applying, you must acquire a valid DSC, which is necessary to digitally sign the application form.
2. File eForm DIR-3: Submit the electronic form DIR-3 on the MCA portal, providing your personal details.
3. Attach documents: Upload scanned, self-attested copies of your identity and address proof, along with a passport-sized photograph. For foreign nationals, a valid passport is mandatory for identity proof.
4. Pay fees: Pay the prescribed application fee online.
5. Professional certification: The eForm DIR-3 must be digitally signed and certified by a practicing professional, such as a Chartered Accountant, Company Secretary, or Cost Accountant.
6. Receive DIN: Upon successful verification, the MCA will process the application and allot a unique DIN, which is communicated to the applicant.

Annual DIN compliance

To keep your DIN active, you must file your Know Your Customer (KYC) details annually through the e-Form DIR-3 KYC.

• eForm DIR-3 KYC: This form is for first-time filers or for directors who need to update their details.
• DIR-3 KYC Web: Directors who have already filed in a previous financial year and have no changes in their information can use the simplified web service.
• Penalties for non-compliance: Failure to file your KYC details by the due date (September 30th) can lead to deactivation of your DIN and a penalty of ₹5,000 for reactivation.

Surrender of DIN

A DIN can be surrendered by filing eForm DIR-5 with the Central Government. The process requires a declaration that the individual was never appointed as a director in any company and the DIN was never used for filing any document.