FOREIGN DIN REGISTER

FOREIGN DIN REGISTER

Foreign nationals must obtain a Director Identification Number (DIN) from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) to be appointed as a director of an Indian company. The application process is similar to that for Indian nationals but has specific requirements for identity, address proof, and document authentication. 

How to apply

Foreign nationals can apply for a DIN through two primary routes: 

1. During company incorporation:

• A foreign national can apply for a DIN for up to three proposed first directors directly through the integrated SPICe+ form on the MCA portal when incorporating a new company.
• The DIN will be allotted along with the company's registration. 

2. After company incorporation (for an existing company):

• If a foreign national is joining an existing Indian company, they must file eForm DIR-3 on the MCA portal.
• The application must be digitally signed and certified by a practicing professional in India. 

Documents required

When filing eForm DIR-3, foreign nationals must attach the following documents: 

• Passport: A notarized and/or apostilled copy of a valid passport is the mandatory identity proof.
• Proof of address: A notarized and/or apostilled copy of a residence proof, such as a utility bill, driving license, or bank statement, is required. This document must not be older than one year from the date of filing.
• Photograph: A recent passport-sized color photograph of the applicant.
• Translation of documents: If any document is not in English, it must be translated into English by a professional translator. The translation must carry the translator's name, signature, address, and seal.
• Digital Signature Certificate (DSC): The applicant must obtain a DSC from a certifying authority in India to digitally sign the application. 

Document authentication 

All identity and address proofs for foreign nationals must be apostilled or notarized by a notary public in their home country. The authentication can also be done by the Indian Embassy in the foreign national's country. 

Security clearance

If the foreign national is a citizen of a country that shares a land border with India, prior security clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs is mandatory and must be attached to the DIN application. 

Annual compliance

Like all DIN holders, foreign directors must file their Know Your Customer (KYC) details annually through eForm DIR-3 KYC or DIR-3 KYC Web. This filing is mandatory to keep the DIN active.