DIR-3 KYC: Everything you need to know
In the ever-evolving world of corporate compliance, DIR-3 KYC filing has become a non-negotiable requirement for all Directors in India. Whether you’re a startup founder, investor-director, or a serial entrepreneur with multiple directorships, non-compliance can cost you your active DIN status — leading to penalties, disqualification, and business delays.
This blog simplifies DIR-3 KYC for entrepreneurs. We decode the law, the procedure, practical challenges, penalties, and share our expert insights to help you stay compliant in 2025.
What is DIR-3 KYC?
DIR-3 KYC is a mandatory compliance form filed annually by every director (holding a DIN) with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), containing their personal KYC details.
Purpose:
To validate the identity and contact details of directors registered with MCA and ensure transparency in corporate governance.
Who Needs to File DIR-3 KYC? – Every DIN Holder
- Every individual who has been allotted a Director Identification Number (DIN) on or before March 31, 2025 and whose DIN is in ‘Approved’ status.
- This includes:
- Directors in Private Limited Companies
- Designated Partners in LLPs
- Independent Directors
- Startup Founders who are directors
- Investor Directors or Nominee Directors
What is the Due Date for DIR-3 KYC in 2025?
Deadline: 30th September 2025
- If you fail to file by this date, your DIN will be marked as ‘Deactivated due to Non-filing of DIR-3 KYC’.
Types of DIR-3 KYC Forms
| Form Type | Who Should File | Frequency | Mode of Filing |
| DIR-3 KYC | For first-time filers or those with changes | Once / Change | e-Form via MCA V3 |
| DIR-3 KYC-WEB | For directors who have already filed previously and no changes in info | Every year | Online (Web-based) |
Documents Required for DIR-3 KYC
| Document | Format | Notes |
| PAN Card | PDF / JPEG | Mandatory for Indian Nationals |
| Aadhaar Card | PDF / JPEG | Mandatory with linked mobile number |
| Passport | PDF / JPEG | Mandatory for foreign nationals |
| Personal Mobile Number | OTP verification | Must be unique and active |
| Personal Email ID | OTP verification | Must be unique and active |
| Address Proof (Latest Utility Bill/Bank Statement) | Not older than 2 months | |
| Digital Signature (DSC) | Using USB Token | Must be Class 2 or Class 3, registered on MCA |
| Self-declaration & Signature | Included in e-Form | Must match MCA records |
Step-by-Step Filing Process
A. For First-Time Filers
- Obtain a valid DSC (if not already available).
- Download DIR-3 KYC e-Form from MCA V3 Portal.
- Fill personal details – name, PAN, Aadhaar, mobile, email, address, etc.
- Validate and link mobile & email via OTP.
- Attach supporting documents and self-attested copies.
- Get it certified by a practicing professional (CS/CA/CMA).
- Upload the form to MCA portal.
B. For Repeat Filers (No Change)
- Log in to MCA portal using your credentials.
- Go to DIR-3 KYC-WEB service.
- Enter DIN and verify OTPs on email & mobile.
- Submit and receive acknowledgment instantly.
Practical Challenges Faced by Entrepreneurs
| Challenge | Lawgical Tip |
| Change in mobile/email | Use DIR-3 KYC e-Form instead of Web version |
| DSC not working / expired | Renew DSC at least 10 days before deadline |
| Email or Mobile already used | Each director must have unique contact info |
| Mismatch in PAN/Aadhaar name | Ensure name in MCA matches PAN exactly |
| Professional certification | Keep your CS/CA in the loop well in advance |
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
- DIN becomes inactive: You cannot act as a director until KYC is done.
- Penalty of ₹5,000 per DIN (as per Rule 12A of Companies (Appointment and Qualification of Directors) Rules, 2014).
- Business disruptions: Bank approvals, ROC filings, DIN-based verifications get blocked.
How Lawgical Startup Helps Entrepreneurs
At Lawgical Startup, we ensure end-to-end compliance so that you never miss a deadline. Our services include:
- Tracking DIN status for your entire board
- Validating personal records in MCA master data
- Managing OTP-based verifications smoothly
- Filing both e-Form and Web-KYC versions
- Providing digital signatures and renewals
Your directorship shouldn’t be a compliance burden. Leave it to us.
DIR-3 KYC FAQs for Entrepreneurs
Q1. I am a dormant director in a company, do I still need to file DIR-3 KYC?
Ans. Yes. Even inactive directors must file it annually.
Q2. I resigned as director this year. Do I need to file?
Ans. If your DIN was active on or before March 31, 2025, then yes.
Q3. I have multiple directorships. Should I file separately?
Ans. No. DIR-3 KYC is filed per DIN, not per company.
Q4. My email/mobile is linked to multiple DINs. Is that allowed?
Ans. No. Each DIN must have a unique mobile and email.
Q5. What if my DIN is deactivated? Can I reactivate it later?
Ans. Yes. By filing DIR-3 KYC and paying ₹5,000 penalty.
Q6. Can a Company Secretary file it on my behalf?
Ans. Yes. Filing of DIR-3-KYC must be certified by a practicing CS/CA/CMA.
If you need any help or any support in relation to your KYC Filings, please visit here.