How Foreign Individuals Can Apply for a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) in India
- dheeraj suthar
- Sep 17
- 4 min read
In today’s digital-first world, a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is no longer optional—it’s a necessity for secure online transactions. Whether you are an NRI (Non-Resident Indian), an expat, or a foreign individual doing business in India, you will need a valid DSC to legally sign documents, file forms, or participate in e-tendering.
This guide explains everything you need to know about applying for a DSC in India as a foreign individual—eligibility, process, documents required, and benefits.
What is a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)?
A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is a secure digital key issued by a licensed Certifying Authority (CA) in India. It verifies your identity electronically and provides legal validity to documents you sign online.
For foreign individuals, DSCs are especially important when:
Filing compliance forms in India.
Signing contracts with Indian companies.
Participating in tenders or online auctions.
Managing financial or tax-related processes.
Why Foreign Individuals Need a DSC in India
Foreign nationals and NRIs may require a DSC for:
Business Transactions: Signing agreements, contracts, and MoUs with Indian companies.
Compliance Filings: Using DSC on MCA (Ministry of Corporate Affairs) or GST portals.
E-Tendering: Participating in Indian government tenders securely.
Legal Recognition: DSC is recognised under the Indian IT Act, 2000, making your digital signature legally valid.
Types of DSC Available for Foreign Individuals
When applying for a DSC in India, foreign individuals can choose from:
Foreign Individual Sign Only DSC – Used solely for signing documents digitally.
Foreign Individual Combo DSC (Sign + Encrypt) – Allows both signing and encrypting documents for added security.
👉 If you’re only signing forms/contracts, “Sign Only” DSC is enough. For sensitive financial transactions, go for Combo DSC.
Documents Required for Foreign Individuals to Get a DSC
To apply for a DSC as a foreigner, you’ll need to provide self-attested & notarised documents:
Passport (mandatory) – Copy of passport with photo & details page.
Visa / Resident Permit – If you are residing in India.
Address Proof – Overseas or Indian address (utility bill, driving license, residence card).
Passport-size Photograph – Latest colour photo.
👉 Note: In some cases, documents may need Apostille / Embassy attestation depending on your country of residence.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Foreign Individual DSC in India
Here’s the simple process:
1. Choose a Certifying Authority (CA)
Select a trusted CA in India, such as Digisign India.
2. Select Your DSC Type
Foreign Individual Sign Only
Foreign Individual Combo (Sign + Encrypt)
3. Fill Application Form
Complete the online DSC application with your personal details.
4. Upload Documents
Upload passport, visa/resident proof, and address proof (notarised/attested).
5. Payment
Pay securely online for the DSC package (1–3 year validity).
6. Verification
Complete video verification or physical verification as required by the CA.
7. Download & Use DSC
Once approved, your DSC will be issued on a USB token (e-Token). Plug it into your system to start signing documents.
Validity & Cost of Foreign Individual DSC
Validity: Usually 1 year, 2 years, or 3 years.
Cost: Depending on the provider, approx ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 INR (USD equivalent for foreign users).
Benefits of Getting a Foreign Individual DSC
✔ Legally valid in India under the IT Act, 2000.
✔ Saves time by eliminating courier & paperwork.
✔ Mandatory for MCA filings, GST filings, and e-tenders.
✔ Ensures 100% secure online transactions.
✔ Accepted by almost all Indian government portals.
Where to Apply?
You can apply directly from Digisign India – a trusted Certifying Authority partner for DSCs in India.
We provide:
✅ Hassle-free online application process.
✅ Quick approval with secure verification.
✅ Support for both foreign individuals and organisations.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a foreign individual or NRI planning to conduct business or file documents in India, a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is a must-have. The application process is simple, fully online, and legally recognised.
👉 Get started today with Digisign India and unlock the power of secure digital signing in India.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can a foreign individual apply for a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) in India?
Yes. Foreign individuals, NRIs, and expats can apply for a DSC in India through licensed Certifying Authorities (CAs) such as Digisign India.
Q2. What documents are required for a foreign individual to obtain a DSC?
You need a valid passport, visa/resident permit, overseas or Indian address proof, and a recent passport-size photograph. Documents must be notarised or apostilled.
Q3. How long does it take to obtain a DSC for a foreign national in India?
The process usually takes 1–3 working days, depending on document verification and the Certifying Authority.
Q4. What is the cost of a DSC for foreign individuals in India?
The cost typically ranges from ₹1,500 to ₹3,000, depending on the type (Sign Only or Combo) and the validity period (1–3 years).
Q5. Where can a foreign individual use a DSC in India?
A DSC can be used for:
Filing forms on the MCA and GST portals
Signing legal contracts
Participating in e-tenders and e-auctions
Secure financial and compliance-related transactions
Q6. What is the difference between Foreign Individual Sign Only DSC and Combo DSC?
Sign Only DSC: Used only for digitally signing documents.
Combo DSC (Sign + Encrypt): Used for signing and encrypting data for enhanced security in sensitive transactions.
Q7. Is a DSC legally valid for foreigners in India?
Yes. DSCs issued by Indian CAs like Digisign India are legally valid under the Indian IT Act, 2000.
Comments