Important Keywords: DIR-3 KYC Filing Procedure, DIR‑3 KYC due date, DIR‑3 KYC, DIR‑3 KYC Web filing, DIN deactivation, Director KYC MCA, How to file DIR‑3 KYC online, DIR‑3 KYC documents required, DIR‑3 KYC for foreign director, DIN KYC status check.
Words: 3,601, Read time: 19 minutes.
Last Updated: February 2026 (As per latest MCA amendments).
Table of Contents
Overview
Every individual holding a DIN is required to comply with DIR‑3 KYC requirements under Rule 12A of the Companies (Appointment and Qualification of Directors) Rules, 2014, as amended. The frequency of such compliance has been revised from annual filing to once every three financial years effective 31 March 2026.
Earlier, Every director with a DIN as on 31st March must file it by 30th September of the next financial year to keep the DIN active. But now the things have changed with the 2025 amendment. Now, The amendment is made under the Companies Act, 2013 through the Companies (Appointment and Qualification of Directors) Amendment Rules, 2025 notified by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs is that you only need to file it once every three financial years.
Under the updated framework introduced by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, DIR‑3 KYC Web is now the single unified form used for all KYC-related filings.
Earlier e‑Form and web-based systems have been merged into one integrated process.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the old and new DIR-3 KYC requirements, including who needs to file it, the filing deadlines and consequences of non-compliance, and a step-by-step process to file it correctly.
DIR‑3 KYC is a mandatory compliance for all DIN holders to confirm and update their personal details with the MCA. It must be filed within the prescribed deadline to avoid DIN deactivation and a ₹5,000 pay in delay cases.
What is DIR-3 KYC Form?
Under the Companies (Appointment and Qualification of Directors) Rules, 2014, anyone who has been allotted a DIN and whose DIN status is approved must file the DIR-3 KYC form. This form must be submitted to the Registrar of Companies (ROC). Earlier, DIN holders were required to file DIR‑3 KYC annually between 1st April and 30th September, unless an extension is given. The purpose of this form is to ensure that the ROC has updated and accurate records of directors, including their addresses, contact numbers, and email addresses.
Earlier, anyone holding an approved DIN was required to file the DIR-3 KYC form with the ROC every year. The filing window ran from 1st April to 30th September, unless an extension was granted. The purpose of this form was to ensure that the ROC had updated and accurate records of directors, including their addresses, contact numbers, and email IDs.
However, under the 2025 amendment, anyone with an active DIN now needs to file the DIR-3 KYC form only once every three financial years. The main aim of this change is to reduce the compliance burden on directors while keeping the MCA’s database up to date.
Why DIR-3 KYC mandatory to file?
Filing DIR‑3 KYC is mandatory to keep the MCA database up-to-date with accurate information about all directors holding a DIN. It helps verify your identity and ensures that your details, such as name, address, PAN, mobile number, and email, are current in the records.
Completing your KYC also keeps your DIN active and valid. If you don’t file on time, your DIN can be deactivated, which means you won’t be able to act as a director until it is reactivated.
In India, DIR‑3 KYC is a simple but important compliance step for directors. It helps maintain transparency, accountability, and proper record-keeping in the corporate world.
DIR-3 KYC – Evolution from Old System to New Unified System
Earlier, The MCA provides two options for filing this form based on your status:
- DIR-3 KYC (e-Form)
This was a detailed KYC form that required a digital signature and professional certification. You needed to file this form in the following cases:- First-time KYC filing – if you were submitting your KYC for the first time.
- Update of KYC details – if there were changes in your mobile number, email, address, or nationality.
- The form had to be digitally signed by the director and attested by a practicing Chartered Accountant (CA), Company Secretary (CS), or Cost Accountant (CMA) before submission.
- DIR-3 KYC-WEB
This was an online, web-based form for directors who had already filed their KYC in previous years and hadn’t changed any details. All they needed to do was verify their registered mobile number and email using OTP. There was no need to upload documents or obtain professional certification for this version.
Note: As per the current scenario, for the DIR-3 KYC Form, MCA has moved to a single method: DIR-3 KYC Web. Everyone now needs to file DIR-3 KYC Web. For routine filings with no changes, verification is done via OTP. If you update any information, you will need to attach DSC of director and professional certification.
Documents required to file DIR-3 KYC ( As per the Old vs New DIR-3 KYC Rules)
Here are the following required documents as per the both situation:
| Documents | DIR-3 KYC | New DIR-3 KYC Web (2025 Amendment) |
| PAN Card | Required for Indian nationals | Yes, it is required |
| Passport | Mandatory for foreign nationals | Yes, it is required |
| ID Proofs | Aadhaar or any government-issued ID | Yes, it is required |
| Address Proof | Permanent & Present (utility bill, bank statement, etc., not older than 2 months) | yes, same as old proofs |
| Email ID & Mobile Number | Required for OTP verification | yes required |
| Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) | Required | Professional’s DSC is not required for routine DIR-3 KYC Web filing under the new rules. Only the Director’s (client’s) DSC is required in such cases. However, both the Professional’s DSC and the Director’s DSC are mandatory when there is any change in details or where authentication is required. |
| Professional Certification | Required by practicing CA, CS, or CMA for e-Form | Not required in the case of reactivation of DIN or KYC compliance. but for the other purposes it would be needed. (i.e. other purposes or combination of purposes) |
Documents Required (Current System)
- PAN (for Indian nationals)
- Passport (for foreign nationals)
- Address proof
- Mobile number & email (OTP verification)
- DSC (only where required based on purpose)
Document requirements may vary depending on the purpose selected in the unified DIR‑3 KYC Web form.
As per the 2025 amendment regarding the DIR-3 KYC Web form, the documents required for filing remain the same as in the earlier process, with no new documents introduced. The notification mainly states that the filing due date is on or before 30th June of every three financial years and clarifies that the form is no longer required to be filed annually. After this amendment, active DIN holders are required to file the DIR-3 KYC Web form only once every three financial years.
Steps for filing Form DIR-3 KYC (historical vs current)
Here we will understand the steps through the below table:
| Steps | Old DIR-3 KYC | New DIR-3 KYC Web (2025 Amendment) |
| Login to MCA Portal | Directors log in with DIN credentials. | Same as old rule. |
| Access DIR-3 KYC Form | Navigate to e-Form, fill in personal/professional details, including mobile, email, address, nationality. | Web-based form; same details to be filled. |
| Document Upload | Upload: passport-sized photo, proof of identity (PAN/passport), proof of address (utility bills/bank statement). | Exact documents not specified; generally same as old practice if available. |
| Review & Verification | Double-check all details to avoid rejection. | Same |
| Digital Signature Authentication | Use DSC linked to DIN to sign form. | Same |
| Professional Certification | Required for e-Form filing or first-time filings (CA/CS/CMA). | Only required for e-Form or specific changes; not mandatory for routine web filing. not specified exactly, but it depends on the case situation. |
| Submit the Form | Submit online via MCA portal. | Same |
| Acknowledgment & Confirmation | Receive acknowledgment receipt from MCA portal. | Same |
| Timeline for Submission | File annually: 1st April – 30th September. | File once every three financial years; updates within 30 days of change. |
| Consequences of Non-Compliance | DIN deactivation, legal penalties, impact on company compliance. | Same |
click here: For DIR-3 KYC Form filing guide
Fees for DIR-3 KYC Form
The government fee for filing DIR‑3 KYC or DIR‑3 KYC Web depends on whether you file on time or late:
- On-time filing (by 30th September) – No fee at all. You can file free of charge.
- Late filing – If you miss the deadline, you must pay a ₹5,000 in delay cases to submit the form.
- Missed filing for the previous financial year – You still need to pay a ₹5,000 to file the delayed KYC and reactivate your DIN.
* There are no major changes in the government fees or late fees under the 2025 amendment for DIR‑3 KYC filing.
In short: File on time = free; file late = ₹5,000 in delay cases.
Due Date to file DIR-3 KYC Form (Old vs New rule)
Here we will understand due date about the form DIR-3 KYC with the below table
DIR-3 KYC e- Form:
| Aspect | Old Rule | New Rule (2025 Amendment) |
| Purpose | KYC of Directors | KYC of Directors |
| Time line | Annual Compliance | File only when required (first-time filing or if details change) |
| Last date | On or before 30th September | Not required annually |
| Applicable To | First-time filers or those with changes in personal details (email, mobile, address, nationality, etc.) | Same as old rule; only when personal details change |
DIR-3 KYC Web Form:
| Aspect | Old Rule | New Rule (2025 Amendment) |
| Purpose | KYC of Directors | KYC of Directors |
| Time line | Annual Compliance | Once every three financial years |
| Last date | On or before 30th September | On or before 30th June |
| Applicable to | All directors, annual OTP-based verification | Directors who have already filed previously with no changes; simplified OTP verification process. |
The due date also shifts earlier in the financial year (June instead of September).
Important Note: Earlier, the due date for filing DIR‑3 KYC was 30th September every year (unless extended by the MCA).
As per the recent notification dated 31 December 2025 issued by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, the DIR-3 KYC filing requirement has been revised under the Companies (Appointment and Qualification of Directors) Amendment Rules, 2025, and the filing frequency will shift to a three-year cycle.
After the amendment comes into effect on 31 March 2026, directors will be required to file once every three financial years. The due date for filing will be on or before 30 June of the year immediately following the third financial year of the relevant cycle. The MCA may notify specific timelines for each cycle.
This change makes KYC filing simpler and less frequent for directors.
See the latest Gazette Notification regarding the Form DIR-3 KYC
DIR‑3 KYC vs DIR‑3 KYC Web (Before Amendment)
| Criteria | DIR‑3 KYC | DIR‑3 KYC Web |
| Purpose | Complete KYC and update director details | Re-verify KYC if nothing has changed |
| Who Should File | First-time filers or directors updating info like email, mobile, etc. | Directors who already filed KYC last year and have no changes |
| Filing Method | Fill offline PDF and upload on MCA portal | Fill online form using OTP on MCA portal |
| Documents Needed | Yes (PAN, Aadhaar, etc.) | Under the amended DIR-3 KYC rules effective 31 March 2026, no new documents have been prescribed; existing KYC documents such as PAN, address proof, and contact details continue to apply, depending on the nature of filing. |
| Digital Signature (DSC) | Required | Professional’s DSC is not required for routine DIR-3 KYC Web filing under the new rules. Only the Director’s (client’s) DSC is required in such cases. However, both the Professional’s DSC and the Director’s DSC are mandatory when there is any change in details or where authentication is required. |
| Professional Certificate (CA/CS/CMA) | Required | As per the New rule, the form is not required to be certified by the professional in case the purpose of form is “Reactivation of DIN” or “KYC Compliance but For all other purposes or combination of purposes, form is required to be certified by the professional. |
| Email & Mobile Verification | Yes | Yes |
| Time Required | 1–2 working days | 10–15 minutes |
| Cost | No government fee, but DSC/professional certificate cost applies | Yes, a government fee of ₹500 is payable for updating changes in email ID, mobile number, or permanent/present address under the new DIR-3 KYC rule. |
click here: for GST and ITR filing!
How to Download Form DIR-3 KYC on Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) Portal
Earlier, the DIR-3 KYC form was accessed from the MCA portal through the following steps:
- Visit MCA Website
The Official portal of the Ministry of corporate Affairs (www.mca.gov.in) was opened.
2. Accessed e-Filing Section (The following path was generally followed):
MCA Services → DIN Services → DIR-3 KYC
3. Download the Form (For First-Time or changes)
- If the director was filing KYC for the first time or updating details, the DIR-3 KYC (PDF form) was downloaded.
- This form was an offline, downloadable PDF.
4. Login Requirement
- Login was not required for downloading the form.
- However, login was mandatory for uploading the form or using web-based services.
5. Fill the Form Offline
- The downloaded form was opened in Adobe Acrobat Reader.
- Details such as DIN, Personal information, mobile number, email ID, and address were filled in.
6. Attach DSCs (Very Important Step)
- Director's DSC was mandatory.
- Professional's Certification (CA/CS/CMA) was also required for certification.
- without DSCs, the form could not be submitted.
7. Upload the Form on MCA Portal
- The user logged into the MCA portal.
- The filled and signed form was uploaded under DIN services.
8. OTP Verification
- OTPs were sent to the registered mobile number and email ID.
- These OTPs had to be verified during the filing process.
9. Use of DIR-3 KYC Web (Alternative Option)
- If no changes were required in KYC details:
- The DIR-3 KYC Web option was used instead of the PDF form.
- Details were pre-filled, and only OTP verification was required.
- No professional certification was needed in this case (earlier system).
Under the updated system, all KYC-related filings are completed through this single web-based interface.
click here: For DIN allotment guide
Practical Example
| Situation | Old rule | New rule |
| DIN active on 31 March | File every year | File once in 3 years |
| No change in details | Still file annually | As per the new rule you can update your mobile number, Email ID, Permanent and present residential address. |
| Change in mobile/email | Can wait till annual KYC | must file within 30 days along with Additional fees, if applicable, depend on the purpose selected in the form and are system‑calculated on the MCA portal. |
Transitional Questions (unresolved interpretational points)
Question. What happens to DIN holders who filed in FY 2024-25?
Answer. under the new DIR-3 KYC rule (effective 31 March 2026), is a director already completed DIR-3 KYC for FY 2024-2025, then they are safe till 30 June 2028. it means that they are required to file next KYC by 30 June 2028.
Question. Will 2025-26 require filing?
Answer. No, DIR-3 KYC filing for FY 2025-26 is not required as per the new triennial rule, if KYC was already completed for FY 2024-25.
Question. Is 31 March 2026 the base date for cycle counting?
Answer. Yes, 31 March 2026 is the base date for the new DIR‑3 KYC triennial cycle. Any change in mobile, email, or address must be updated within 30 days with a ₹500 fee.
Question. Will MCA issue transitional guidance?
Answer.
*Based on a plain reading of the amendment, the three‑year compliance cycle appears to commence from the financial year in which the amendment becomes effective (i.e., FY 2025–26). However, in the absence of express transitional provisions, it remains unclear whether prior KYC filings will reset the compliance cycle. A formal clarification or circular from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs may therefore be necessary to remove interpretational uncertainty.
Conclusion
In this article, we’ve covered everything you need to know about Form DIR‑3 KYC Old vs New amendment rule 2025 – what it is, why it’s mandatory, the different types, due dates, penalties, and how to file or download it online. We’ve also included the latest updates and amendments from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).
With the new rules, Under the amended rules effective 31 March 2026, DIR‑3 KYC will be required once every three financial years, subject to MCA notification of the applicable due date. This means while routine filings are reduced, it’s still important for directors to update their personal details on time to avoid penalties or DIN-related issues.
We hope this guide helps you stay compliant rule old vs new amendment, informed, and stress-free when it comes to your Director KYC.
Disclaimer: We do our best to make sure all the information shared in this blog comes from trusted and authentic sources and is carefully reviewed before publishing. Our goal is to keep you updated with the latest and most relevant information in a simple and practical way.
If you spot any mistake (other than changes in law or updates), it’s likely just a human error — and we truly appreciate your understanding.
Please remember, this blog is created for informational purposes only. if you need any consultancy regarding compliance related query, you can drop your queries on this email Id: help@finodha.in. Our explanations are based on practical knowledge and experience, but laws and rules can change. So, we always suggest that you double-check with a qualified professional or official authority before making any final decisions.
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Important: Any reference to “DIR‑3 KYC e‑Form” in this article relates to the pre-amendment system and is included only for comparison purposes.Need help related to filing Form DIR-3 KYC: Drop your queries at Finodha.in
FAQs: Get answers to all your queries!
Question. Who need to file DIR-3 KYC web form?
Answer: Directors who already filed DIR-3 KYC and have no changes in their details can use the DIR-3 KYC Web form.
Question. What is the purpose of DIR-3 KYC?
Answer: The purpose of DIR-3 KYC is to keep a director's details updated with the ,ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) and ensure their DIN remains active and valid.
Question. Is it obligatory to enter a unique mobile number and email ID while filing form DIR-3 KYC?
Answer: Yes, while filing DIR-3 KYC, you must provide a unique mobile number and email ID for verification and official communication.
Question. Do I need to file DIR-3 KYC if I am a disqualified director?
Answer: Yes, you are still required to file DIR-3 KYC even if you are a disqualified director, provided if you are a valid DIN as of 31 March of the financial year.
*Disqualification does not exempt you from DIR-3 KYC compliance.
Question. What is DSC?
Answer: DSC stand for Digital signature Certificate. it is an electronic signature that allows you to sign the documents online securely and verify your identity.
Question. Is it mandatory to have DSC for filing the DIR-3 KYC?
Answer: Whether DSC is required for DIR-3 KYC depends on how you file the form. If you use DIR-3 KYC Web, you do not need a DSC because the form is verified through OTP sent to your registered mobile number and email. However Earlier, if the offline e‑Form DIR‑3 KYC was used, DSC was mandatory. Under the current system, filing is done through DIR‑3 KYC Web.
Question. Is professional certificate Mandatory?
Answer: Under the current system, DIR‑3 KYC is filed through the web-based form. DSC and professional certification may be required depending on the purpose (such as change in details), but the separate offline e‑Form system is no longer used.
Question. My DIN status is deactivated; can I still file DIR-3 KYC?
Answer: Yes. If your DIN is deactivated due to non‑filing of DIR‑3 KYC, you can file the form with a ₹5,000 fee to reactivate it.
Question. What is the government fees for filing form e-DIR-3 KYC Form?
Answer: If you file e‑Form DIR‑3 KYC on time, there’s no government fee-it’s completely free. But if you miss the deadline, you’ll need to pay a ₹5,000 in delayed cases to file and reactivate your DIN.
Question. When is the due date to file DIR-3 KYC?
Answer: Under the amended Rules effective 31 March 2026, DIR-3 KYC Filing is now required once every three financial years, and the due date for that filing cycle is on or before 30 June of the year immediately following the third financial year.
Question. Is Form DIR-3 KYC Mandatory for Foreign director?
Answer: DIR‑3 KYC is mandatory for all DIN holders, including foreign directors. If a foreign national holds a DIN issued in India, they are also required to file DIR‑3 KYC.
Question. What are the modes of filing?
Answer: Under the current system, DIR‑3 KYC is filed through a single integrated web-based form. The earlier e‑Form method is no longer used.
Question. What documents are required for filing Form DIR-3 KYC?
Answer: For DIR‑3 KYC, you need your PAN, updated mobile number and email, DSC (for offline filing), and supporting documents only if any details are being changed.
Question. Can I change my mobile number or email ID in Form DIR-3 KYC?
Answer: Yes, you can change your mobile number or email ID while filing Form DIR‑3 KYC. Under the current system, all filings are completed through DIR‑3 KYC Web.
Question. What is DIR-3 KYC under the Companies Act, 2013?
Answer. Director KYC is a regulatory requirement under the Companies Act, 2013, that mandates individuals holding a DIN to periodically confirm and update their personal and contact details with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).
Question. What are the consequences of not filing DIR-3 KYC?
Answer: If DIR‑3 KYC is not filed, the DIN will be deactivated, a ₹5,000 fee will be required for reactivation, and you cannot act as a director.
Question. Can DIR-3 KYC be filed Online?
Answer: Yes! DIR‑3 KYC can be filed online through the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) portal.
Question. What is the Additional fee for filing Form DIR-3 KYC late?
Answer: You have to pay ₹5,000 for late filing of Form DIR‑3 KYC. There is no additional fine, but this ₹5,000 fee is mandatory to reactivate your DIN.
Question. How to check whether DIR-3 KYC is filed?
Answer: Here’s the way to check if your DIR‑3 KYC is filed:-
Go to the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) website: www.mca.gov.in
-Click on “MCA Services” → “DIN Services” → “DIN KYC Status”
-Enter your DIN and the CAPTCHA code
-Click "Submit"
-you will see your KYC status:
-“Active” → KYC filed and DIN is active
-“Deactivated” → KYC not filed or DIN inactive.
This is the official and easiest way to confirm whether your DIR‑3 KYC has been completed.
Question. Is it compulsory to do KYC every year?
Answer: No — as of the latest update from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, DIR-3 KYC is no longer required every year; it has been changed to once every three years (effective from 31 March 2026), although you still must update details if they change.
Question. Is DIR-3 KYC extended?
Answer: Yes! In 2025, the MCA extended through General Circular No. 05/2025 the DIR-3 KYC due date to 31 October 2025 without any fees. But this was only for the 2025 cycle and isn’t a permanent change. Going forward, directors will need to file KYC once every three years under the amended MCA rules, effective 31 March 2026.
Question. What is the difference between DIR-3 KYC and DIR-3 KYC web?
Answer: One of the key differences is that DIR‑3 KYC is for first-time filing or updating details (requires documents, DSC, and professional certification), whereas DIR‑3 KYC Web is for re-verification when details haven’t changed (OTP only, no documents or DSC needed).
Question. How to download DIR-3 KYC form from MCA portal?
Answer: Then go to MCA Services → Company e-Filing → DIN Related Filings. Choose DIR‑3 KYC for first-time or updated filing, or DIR‑3 KYC Web if your details haven’t changed. Download the PDF if needed, fill it offline, or use the web version where the form is already pre-filled, and submit online.
Question. Who is required to file DIR-3 KYC?
Answer: Every individual holding a DIN as of March 31 of a financial year is required to comply with the director KYC requirements, irrespective of whether they are currently active on a company’s board.
Question. Is “Penalty” the same as “Late Fee” under the Companies Act?
Answer: No. Penalty and late fee are different concepts under the Companies Act, 2013, although they are often used interchangeably in common discussion. What is an Additional Fee (Late Fee)?An additional fee (commonly called late fee) is charged when a statutory form is filed after the prescribed due date. It is system‑generated at the time of filing on the MCA portal and may be calculated on a per‑day or slab basis depending on the form. It is compensatory in nature and does not require adjudication. What is a Penalty? A penalty is imposed for non‑compliance with provisions of the Companies Act, 2013. It is punitive in nature and may be levied on the company and/or officers in default by the Adjudicating Officer after due process. Key Difference Additional Fee (Late Fee) → Automatically paid for delayed filing. Penalty → Imposed for violation of law and may require adjudication. Why This Awareness Matters Understanding the distinction avoids confusion in corporate compliance discussions under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs framework.
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