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How to get Digital Signature
As its name implies, a digital signature is a modern alternative to signing documents with paper and ink. It leverages advanced mathematical techniques to ensure that digital messages and documents are authentic. With a digital signature certificate, you can be sure that the contents of a message will not be altered in transit. A digital signature certificate also provides us with further information about the message, such as the message's origin, status, and the signer's consent.
In India, The Certifying Authority can issue a Digital Signature Certificate for the exclusive use of validating and certifying the identity of the person who holds it. In creating a digital signature, public-key encryption is used. It contains the user name, Pin Code, Country, E-mail Address, Certificate issuance date, and certifying authority name.
The Digital Signature Certificate is required for anyone who must audit an account and file an income tax return. The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has made it mandatory for companies using the DSC to file all reports, applications, and forms. Additionally, a GST registration is granted only after a DSC is taken to verify all documents. It is necessary to have a Digital Signature Certificate both for submitting an application and maintaining compliance.
Types of Digital Signatures
Available in India
DSCs are available in different types i.e Class 1,2 & 3. Class 3 DSCs are the most secure and can be issued both to individuals and businesses.
After a thorough identification process, the Class 3 digital signature certificate is issued by Certifying Authorities (CA). It provides a higher level of assurance to the relying party (generally the recipient of the digitally signed document). E-government transactions, e-auctions, e-bidding, patents, logos, registrars of corporations, Trademark And IP TDS Returns, Income tax Returns, signing Word or PDF documents are all handled through a class 3 DSC.
One must be cautious if they are going for e-procurement/tendering and IEC holders (Import-Export) to select the appropriate options while purchasing.
Note: The CCA published guidelines for the CAs (Certifying Authorities) on 26th November 2020 regarding the issuance of DSCs. In the guidelines, it stated that Class 2 DSC would be discontinued on 1st January 2021. The CAs are not required to issue Class 2 DSC alone but will instead issue Class 3 DSCs that will combine Class 2 and Class 3 DSCs. The Class 3 DSC will qualify as both a Class 2 and Class 3 DSC.
Steps to Obtain
a Digital Signature Certificate in India
Identify Your Requirement
Determine the type of DSC you need based on its intended use (e.g., tax filing, e-tendering, DGFT).
Choose a Certifying Authority (CA)
Select a licensed CA such as eMudhra, Sify, or NSDL, authorized by the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA) in India.
Fill the Application Form
- Download the DSC application form from the chosen CA’s website.
- Provide personal and business details.
Gather the Required Documents
Prepare the necessary documents (discussed below).
Verification Process
- Submit the application form and documents.
- Complete identity verification through video, depending on the CA’s process.
Receive Your DSC
- Once verified, you will receive your DSC on a USB token.
- Install the DSC on your device for use.
What are the benefits of
a Digital Signature Certificate?
Cost-effective
With a Digital Signature Certificate, it is easier to sign and send PDF files quickly. To conduct or authorize a business, a Digital Signature Certificate holder does not need to be physically present.
Fast turnaround
Documents get signed with a single click since Signatures are in a virtual format. Compared to a manual system, this total digital one is quicker and cheaper.
Strengthened Security
It makes sure that the signature on the document is verified, which reduces the chance of fraud and document alteration.
Legal validity
Digital Signature Certificates establish the authenticity of documents, which can be used in court as proof.
Forms of
Digital Signature Certificate
Digital Signature Certificate is of two forms:
-
Sign
Sign DSCs are used only to sign documents. The integrity of the signature and the data can be assured when using a Digital Signature Certificate. The data is unaltered and undamaged.
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Encryption
Encrypt Digital Signature Certificates are used to encrypt documents, enabling companies to upload encrypted documents to the tender portal. Additionally, the certificate can be used for encrypting and sending classified information. Digital signatures with encryption are suitable for e-commerce documents. Documents containing confidential and protected information, such as legal documents.
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Sign and Encrypt
Authentication and confidentiality are maintained through both Sign and Encrypt, which is great for signing and encrypting.
List of Documents Required
for Digital Signature Certificate
For Individual Certificate
-
Aadhaar Offline XML or PAN Card
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Address proof
-
Photograph
For Organization Certificate
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Authorization Letter
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Identity proof
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Organizational proof
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Authorized Signatory proof
NOTE:
*We will collect additional documents based on the information you provided to the filingbee.
Thank You