A Digital Signature is a secure digital certificate. It allows a person to sign documents online safely and legally. Foreign nationals who want to do business or any other official work in India need a Digital Signature for Foreign Individuals.
Getting a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) as a foreign national requires knowing the process and the documents needed. Following the correct steps helps avoid delays. With the right approach, foreign individuals can get their DSC smoothly and use it for all legal filings.
Know all the required details, buy the Capricorn DSC today, and fulfil your digital signature requirement!
Digital Signature for Foreign Individuals
A DSC for foreign nationals allows foreign individuals to digitally sign documents in India. It is recognized by the Indian government and holds the same legal validity as a handwritten signature.
Foreign nationals may need a DSC if they:
- Want to register or manage a company in India
- Are appointed as a director or partner in an Indian business
- Have to submit tax or compliance-related documents
- Need to digitally sign legal contracts or agreements
- Need to submit forms or documents for official filings on government portals
Learn who requires a foreign DSC, key use case, and other important information in PART 1:
DSC for Foreign IndividualsDocuments Required to Get DSC for Foreign Individuals
Wondering what documents required for
digital signature?
There are a few essential Foreign DSC documents required:
1. Identity Proof- Passport
- Local government-issued Identity
- PAN Card (if possible)
- OCI or Overseas Citizen of India Passport
2. Address Proof- Passport or OCI Passport
- Local government-issued ID with address
- Recent bank statement with address
- Utility bill (electricity, water, gas) issued in the last 3 months
- Official document from the Embassy confirming your address
3. Photograph- A recent passport-size photo
- Accepted formats: JPG or PNG
Step-by-Step Process to Get a DSC for Foreign Individuals
Getting a DSC for foreign nationals is easy if you follow the right steps. Here's how to apply DSC for NRI:
1. Choose a Certifying AuthoritySelect an authorized Certifying Authority (CA) approved by the Government of India Like
Capricorn CA.
2. Select the DSC TypePick the DSC that suits your needs. Options include Individual Foreign DSC or Organization Foreign DSC.
3. Select Your Preference- Signing, encryption, or both
- Validity: 1 year, 2 years, or 3 years
- USB token required or not
- Optional assistance services
4. Verify Your Mobile NumberYou will receive an OTP on your mobile to confirm your contact details.
5. Fill the KYC FormComplete the Know Your Customer (KYC) form with your personal details, PAN, and address.
6. Verify Your Email IDAn OTP will be sent to your email for verification.
7. Upload DocumentsSubmit scanned copies of your identity proof, address proof, and photograph. Ensure the details match your KYC form.
8. Complete Video VerificationA short video verification is required to confirm your identity. This is quick and secure.
9. Apply and Submit OnlineReview all details and submit your DSC application online.
10. Make PaymentPay the required fees online. The DSC for NRI cost/foreign DSC price depends on DSC type, validity, and additional services.
11. eSign the FormElectronically sign the DSC form to confirm your application.
12. Download and Install Your DSCOnce verified, your DSC will be ready. Install it on your computer or device and start using it.
Final Words
A Digital Signature makes official work faster and paperless for foreign individuals. It removes the need for physical presence and manual signing. With the correct documents and proper verification, the application process remains smooth.
Choosing the right DSC type and validity is important. Once issued, the DSC can be used securely for multiple government filings until it expires.
Understanding the process in advance saves time and effort.
FAQs
Q. How to get DSC for NRI in India?These simple steps tell you how to apply dsc for NRI:
1. Choose an authorized Certifying Authority
2. Select the appropriate Foreign Individual DSC
3. Fill in personal and KYC details
4. Upload identity and address documents
5. Complete mobile, email, and video verification
6. Make payment and submit the application
7. Download and install the DSC after approval
Read the steps mentioned above in the guide if you want to learn how to apply DSC for NRI in full detail.
Q. What is a Class 3 digital signature for foreign citizens and NRI?A Class 3 Digital Signature is a high-security DSC. It is used for official and legal filings in India.
Foreign citizens and NRIs require this type of DSC for company filings, compliance work, and other government-related submissions.
Q. How to get a digital signature certificate for an individual?An individual can apply for a DSC by following these steps:
1. Select the required DSC type and validity
2. Complete the online application form
3. Upload identity proof, address proof, and photograph
4. Verify mobile number, email ID, and identity
5. Submit the form and make payment
6. Install the DSC after it is issued
Want to know the steps in detail? Read here:
How to Apply for Digital Signature Certificate?Q. Who is eligible for a digital signature?Any individual who needs to sign documents digitally can apply for a DSC. This includes Indian citizens, NRIs, and foreign nationals involved in official, legal, or business-related activities in India.
Basically, anyone who has a digital signature requirement.
Q. Are DSCs used outside of India?DSCs issued in India are mainly used for official filings on Indian government portals. However, they can also be used to digitally sign documents that are shared internationally, depending on acceptance by the concerned authority.