DIN / DPIN

DIN Application / Allotment

By G R Hari3 min read

Quick Answer

DIN Application / Allotment is the process of obtaining a unique Director Identification Number (DIN) from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). Every individual intending to become a director of a company must have a DIN.

DIN Application / Allotment — detailed explanation below

Governing Act — DIN Application / Allotment

The DIN Application / Allotment is governed by the Companies Act, 2013, specifically Section 153 (Application for allotment of Director Identification Number) and Section 154 (Allotment of Director Identification Number). The Companies (Appointment and Qualification of Directors) Rules, 2014 prescribe the procedure. No reported decision was found on this point.


Government Department & Website for DIN Application / Allotment

The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) is the government department responsible for DIN Application / Allotment. The online portal is www.mca.gov.in. The process is entirely digital, requiring a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) and use of the SPICe+ form (for incorporation) or DIR-3 form (for existing individuals).


DIN Application / Allotment Process

The DIN Application / Allotment process is fully online. Step 1: Obtain a Class 2 or Class 3 Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) from a licensed Certifying Authority. Step 2: Log in to the MCA portal and file Form DIR-3 (for individuals not applying through SPICe+). Step 3: Attach scanned documents – photograph, proof of identity (PAN card, Aadhaar, Voter ID, etc.), proof of residence, and declaration. Step 4: Pay the prescribed fee online. Step 5: The MCA verifies the application and allots a DIN within 1-2 working days. For companies being incorporated, DIN is applied through SPICe+ form along with the company registration.


Key Forms Required for DIN Application / Allotment

The primary form for DIN Application / Allotment is Form DIR-3. For incorporation of a company, DIN is applied through SPICe+ (INC-32). Supporting documents include: scanned photograph, self-attested copy of PAN card, proof of identity (Aadhaar, Voter ID, Passport, Driving License), proof of residence (bank statement, electricity bill, telephone bill – not older than 2 months), and a declaration by the applicant. Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is mandatory for filing.


Eligibility Criteria for DIN Application / Allotment

Any individual who intends to be a director of a company is eligible to apply for DIN. There is no minimum age requirement under the Act, but the individual must be capable of entering into contracts. A person disqualified under Section 164 of the Companies Act (e.g., convicted of certain offences) cannot be appointed as a director and thus cannot obtain DIN. Foreign nationals and NRIs can also apply, provided they have a valid passport and proof of address.


Timeline for DIN Application / Allotment

The MCA typically processes DIN applications within 1-2 working days after submission of a complete and correct application. However, if there are discrepancies or additional verification required, it may take longer. The timeline is not fixed and depends on the MCA's processing speed.


Fees for DIN Application / Allotment

The government fee for DIN Application / Allotment is prescribed under the Companies (Registration Offices and Fees) Rules, 2014. The fee for Form DIR-3 is ₹500. For SPICe+ (INC-32), the fee varies based on the authorized capital of the company. Below is the fee structure for DIR-3:

FormFee (₹)
DIR-3500

Note: Additional charges may apply for DSC and professional fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is DIN Application / Allotment?

DIN Application / Allotment is the process of obtaining a unique Director Identification Number from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. It is mandatory for every person who wants to become a director of a company registered in India.

Who needs to apply for DIN Application / Allotment?

Any individual intending to be a director of a company must apply for DIN. This includes Indian residents, NRIs, and foreign nationals. Existing directors who do not have a DIN must also obtain one.

What documents are required for DIN Application / Allotment?

You need a scanned photograph, self-attested PAN card, proof of identity (Aadhaar, Voter ID, Passport, or Driving License), proof of residence (bank statement or utility bill not older than 2 months), and a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC).

How long does DIN Application / Allotment take?

The MCA usually allots DIN within 1-2 working days after submission of a complete application. However, delays may occur if documents need verification or if there are errors.

Can a foreign national apply for DIN Application / Allotment?

Yes, foreign nationals and NRIs can apply for DIN. They need to provide a valid passport and proof of address. The process is the same as for Indian residents, but additional documents like notarized copies may be required.

What is the fee for DIN Application / Allotment?

The government fee for filing Form DIR-3 is ₹500. If applying through SPICe+ during company incorporation, the fee depends on the authorized capital. Additional costs for DSC and professional assistance may apply.