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What is the Digital Signature Certificate?

A digital signature certificate (short form- DSC) is a person’s signature in electronic format. DSC is a form of proof of personal identity that can also be used to sign documents electronically or access services that are available on the Internet.

Who Needs to Obtain a DSC?

The following persons and entities are required under Indian law to obtain a DSC:

1. Individuals who are mandated under the Income Tax Act, 1961 to audit their books of accounts.
2. Private Limited Companies 
3. Public Limited Companies 
4. Unlimited and Unlisted Companies 
5. One Person Companies
6. Hindu Undivided Family
7. Partnership Firm
8. Limited Liability Partnership Firm

What are the Different Types of Digital Signature Certificates?

1. Class 1 DSC- This type of DSC is issued to individuals.
2. Class 2 DSC- This type of DSC is issued to directors and authorized signatories of companies or partners of partnership firms and limited liability partnerships. This type of DSC is used for electronic filing on the Ministry of Corporate Affairs portal, registration of limited liability partnerships, Goods and Services Tax registration, obtaining import export code (IEC) under the Customs law and for filing Income Tax returns.
3. Class 3 DSC- This type of DSC is only issued for electronic auctions, electronic tendering, electronic filing under customs law, and intellectual property filings. It is the highest type of digital certification. 

How to Get Digital Signature Certificates

With FileAbhi.com?

FileAbhi.com can assist you in smoothly applying as well as obtaining your DSC. Upon submission of all relevant documents from your end, we will make a DSC application before the Certifying Authority, fill all forms, assist with attestation of documents, undertake payment on your behalf and answer all your queries up till the issuance of the DSC.

For this, we will charge a fee of INR  1099 Rs. No hidden costs. 

Where Can You Use a Digital Signature Certificate?

DSCs can be used for multiple purposes such as signing electronic documents, undertaking authentication for web-based transactions, availing services on the internet, filing income tax returns, finishing compliances under goods and services tax and customs laws, applying in online auctions and in electronic bidding activities.

What are the Benefits of DSC?

1. Protection against forgery and ensuring digital security of personal identity.
2. Time and cost saving since documents do not have to be printed for physical signatures and do not have to be couriered. 
3. Increased efficiency as signatures can be affixed digitally and the electronic document can be immediately transmitted.
4. Authenticates the personal identity of a person or entity using the DSC.
5. Increased convenience for persons and entities alike.
6. Compliance with Indian laws which compulsorily require authentication and signatures using DSCs.
7. Assures that the data presented in electronic format is duly authenticated and reaffirms the integrity of such document.

What are the Documents Needed for Obtaining a Digital Signature Certificate?

Also Learn: An Ultimate Guide to OPC (One Person Company)

The following documents will have to be submitted by you to FileAbhi.com so that we can seamlessly assist you in obtaining your DSC:

Individual Registration-

1. Aadhar Card 
2. PAN Card 
3. Address Proof such as electricity bill, water bill or bank statement (individual registration)
4. Photo 
5. Other identity proof documents accepted for individual registration include passport, driving license, post office ID card, bank statement or any photo identification document issued by the Central Government or the State Governments
6. In case of foreign individuals, attested copy of passport, attested copy of VISA and attested copy of resident permit certificate (if applicable)

Company/ LLP/ HUF/ Partnership Registration-

1. Authorization Letter 
2. Proof of Authorized Signatory such as Board Resolution
3. Authorized Signatory Proof such as PAN or Organizational ID Card
4. Organization’s PAN or GST Certificate
5. Incorporation Certificate or Bank Certificate if GST Certificate is not available

Also Learn: What is a Limited Liability Partnership or LLP

What is the step-by-step process of Obtaining a DSC?

The step-by-step process of obtaining Digital Signature Certificate is as follows:

1. First Step: Go to any of the licensed Certifying Authority’s websites.
2. Second Step: Fill in details such as class of DSC for which application is being made, validity, type, applicant name, contact details, residential address, GST number, upload identity proof details, upload proof of identity documents, proof of address documents, attestation officer details and payment details. Photograph upload will be prompted at the time of checking declaration box.
3. Third Step: An attesting officer has to attest all the supporting documents being submitted. Some Certifying Authorities permit Aadhar based e- KYC authentication. Only if Certifying Authorities are directly approached then there is no requirement for obtaining attested copies of supporting documents from an attesting officer. Alternatively, a letter certified by bank or a recorded e- verification video can also be submitted instead of obtaining attestation of supporting documents from an attesting officer.
4. Fourth Step: After the DSC application form is filled and all documents are uploaded, payment has to be made through online modes such as debit card, credit card, UPI or net banking for the DSC application to be processed further.
5. Fifth Step: Once all above steps are completed, verification will be undertaken by the licensed Certifying Authority after which the DSC will be sent in an encrypted pen drive through postal services. 

Faq.

1. How long does it take to get a Digital Signature Certificate?

It normally takes between three to seven business days for a DSC to be issued.

2. Who issues DSCs in India?

A Certifying Authority licensed under Section 24 of the Information Technology Act, 2000 is authorized to issue DSC in India. The list of licensed Certifying Authorities is given on the Ministry of Corporate Affairs portal which can be accessed from here.

Also Learn: A Quick Guide to Pvt Limited Company

3. What is the process of renewal of DSC?

DSCs have to be renewed 7 days prior to the expiry date of the DSC. No changes are permitted during the renewal process:

1. Open the webpage of the licensed Certifying Authority who has issued your DSC and login using your credentials.
2. Click on Renew DSC details.
3. Fill all the information being asked in the form and press ‘Submit’.

4. Can I Use the Same DSC for Multiple Purposes?

Yes, you can use the same DSC for multiple purposes. As stated above, the type of DSC which you possess determines where you can use your DSC and the types of services which can be availed with the help of your DSC.

5. Is there any Digital Signature Certificate helpline number to contact for our queries?

Yes, you can contact to the Certifying Authority, whose details of contact can be found on the website. eMudhra is one of the Certifying Authorities whose contact details are: Phone no; +91-80-46156902, email id; support@emudhra.com.

Also Learn: A Quick Guide to StartUp India Registration

6. Is there any Digital Signature Certificate sample to verify that I have the correct number?

Your details of DSC will arrive in an encrypted USB which can only be accessed by the person authorised.

Also Learn: 7 Proven Strategies for Tax Planning For Corporates