Foreign Organization DSC
As businesses expand beyond borders, digital security and authenticity become central to international operations. A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) for Foreign Organizations enables overseas companies, LLPs, trusts, or institutions to legally participate in India’s digital economy. Whether it is incorporating a subsidiary in India, filing returns with MCA, signing contracts, or bidding in Indian government tenders, a DSC ensures the organization’s online identity is secure and legally valid. This makes it an essential compliance tool for global corporations with Indian business interests. The Information Technology Act, 2000 recognizes DSCs, giving foreign organizations a legal pathway for secure digital dealings. It also enhances credibility, as Indian regulators and partners can trust the digital identity of a foreign entity. In today’s paperless, fast-paced regulatory environment, a DSC is no longer optional but mandatory for foreign companies dealing with Indian authorities.
- Certificate of Incorporation / Registration Certificate of the foreign organization
- Legalized or apostilled charter documents (e.g., Memorandum & Articles of Association, Board Resolution)
- Organizational PAN (if allotted in India) or Tax ID proof from home country
- Address proof of the foreign entity (utility bill, bank statement, etc.)
- Authorization Letter on entity’s letterhead nominating the applicant
- Passport and ID/address proof of the authorized signatory
- Attestation by Indian Embassy / Consulate / Notary Public / Apostille as per Hague Convention
- Select a licensed Certifying Authority (CA) in India.
- Fill DSC application for “Foreign Organization” category.
- Submit notarized/apostilled incorporation and entity documents.
- Provide authorization letter nominating an authorized signatory.
- Submit passport & ID proofs of the signatory.
- Complete video KYC verification.
- Pay fees and submit application.
- DSC is issued in a secure USB token (e-Token).
An authorized signatory, representative, or official empowered by a foreign organization can apply for a foreign organization DSC, usually upon submission of proof of identity, address, and organizational authorization.
A foreign organization cannot use its home country DSC in India; it must obtain a DSC from an Indian Certifying Authority authorized under the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA).
The validity of a foreign organization DSC is generally 1 or 2 years, depending on the issuing Certifying Authority.
A foreign trust or society registered outside India can apply for a DSC in India if it meets identity and authorization requirements.
A foreign organization DSC issued by an Indian Certifying Authority (Class 3) can be used for Indian government tenders, e-procurement, or bidding.