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The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has announced a significant change in Director KYC compliance. Previously, directors holding a Director Identification Number (DIN) had to file DIR-3 KYC Web annually. From March 31, 2026, this filing will be required once every three years, making compliance simpler and less time-consuming.
This update is part of MCA’s effort to reduce recurring compliance burdens for directors and maintain updated DIN records efficiently.
What is Director KYC and Why It Matters
Director KYC (Know Your Customer) is a process where directors update their personal information with MCA.
It ensures that:
DIN records are verified and accurate
Communication from MCA reaches the director
Directors remain compliant under the Companies Act, 2013
Key details included in KYC: mobile number, email address, residential address, and in some cases, digital signature verification.
DIR-3 KYC Filing: Earlier 2014 vs New Rules 2026
| Feature | Earlier Rule | New Rule |
|---|---|---|
| KYC Filing | Annual | Once every 3 years |
| KYC Form | DIR-3 KYC & DIR-3 KYC Web | DIR-3 KYC Web only |
| Updates (Mobile, Email, Address) | Annual filing | Must file within 30 days of change |
| Digital Signature | Always required | Only required for personal info update |
| DIN Reactivation | As per old rules | Allowed till 31 March 2026 if KYC not filed |
Who Needs to File DIR-3 KYC Web Form
All directors holding a DIN
Directors who have not yet submitted KYC
Directors who need to update mobile number, email, or residential address
If a director has already filed DIR-3 KYC in 2025, then under the new MCA rule, the next KYC filing will be required only in 2028.
Steps to Update Personal Details in DIR-3 KYC
Visit the official MCA portal: www.mca.gov.in
Login using DIN credentials
Open DIR-3 KYC Web Form
Update personal details as required
Submit form digitally
Attach professional certification if updating contact/address
Save acknowledgment for future reference
Mandatory Fields in DIR-3 KYC Web Form
Personal mobile number
Email address
Permanent and present residential address
Optional: DIN reactivation request
Digital signature (only if updating info)
Digital Signature Requirements for KYC Filing
Only required when mobile number, email, or residential address is updated
Not required for standard 3-year KYC filing
Helps MCA verify authenticity of the data
DIN Reactivation Under MCA’s New Rules
Directors who have not filed KYC yet can reactivate their DIN till March 31, 2026
After this date, DIN will remain inactive until KYC is filed
Effective Date of MCA KYC Rule 2026
Changes come into force from 31 March 2026
First KYC filing under the new 3-year cycle will be due by 30 June 2028 for directors who already completed annual KYC
Change in Regional Director Designation
The Ministry of Corporate Affairs has updated Rule 11 to revise the official designation of the Regional Director.
The earlier designation “Regional Director (Northern Region), Noida” has now been replaced with “Regional Director, Northern Region Directorate-I.”
This change is administrative in nature and does not impact the roles, responsibilities, or authority of the Regional Director. It has been introduced to ensure uniformity and clarity in official MCA records.
Key Points Directors Should Keep in Mind
Directors must take note of the following important changes introduced by MCA:
DIR-3 KYC filing is now required once every three years, instead of every year
Any change in mobile number, email address, or residential address must be updated through DIR-3 KYC within 30 days
Only web-based DIR-3 KYC filing is permitted; the physical or e-form mode is no longer allowed
All these changes will be effective from 31 March 2026
The main objective of this amendment is to simplify compliance for directors while ensuring that DIN details remain accurate, verified, and up to date in MCA records.
Benefits of 3-Year KYC Filing for Directors
Reduces repetitive compliance burden
Saves time and administrative costs
Ensures updated and verified DIN records
Aligns with MCA’s digital-first approach
FAQs – Director KYC Filing Made Easy
1 What is Director KYC under MCA rules?
Director KYC is a compliance requirement where company directors update and verify their personal details such as mobile number, email ID, and residential address with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs using the DIR-3 KYC Web form.
2 Has MCA removed annual DIR-3 KYC filing?
Yes. MCA has removed the annual DIR-3 KYC filing requirement. From 31 March 2026, directors are required to file DIR-3 KYC once every three years.
3 From when is the new 3-year Director KYC rule applicable?
The new Director KYC rule will be applicable from 31 March 2026, as notified by MCA through the official Gazette notification.
4 Who is required to file DIR-3 KYC under the new rules?
All individuals holding a valid Director Identification Number (DIN) are required to file DIR-3 KYC as per the revised MCA rules.
5 If a director has already filed KYC in 2025, when is the next filing due?
If a director has completed DIR-3 KYC in 2025, then under the new rules, the next KYC filing will be due by 30 June 2028.
6 Is DIR-3 KYC required if there is no change in personal details?
Yes, DIR-3 KYC must be filed once every three years even if there is no change in personal details.
7 What if a director changes mobile number or email address?
If there is any change in mobile number, email address, or residential address, the director must file DIR-3 KYC within 30 days of such change.
8 Is digital signature mandatory for DIR-3 KYC filing?
Digital signature is not mandatory for regular 3-year KYC filing. However, it is required if the director is updating mobile number, email ID, or residential address.
9 Can DIN be reactivated under the new MCA rules?
Yes. Directors who have not yet completed KYC can reactivate their DIN as per existing provisions up to 31 March 2026.
10 Which KYC form is allowed under the amended rules?
Only DIR-3 KYC Web is allowed. The use of physical or e-Form DIR-3 KYC has been discontinued.
11 Is professional certification required for DIR-3 KYC?
Professional certification is required only when updating personal details such as mobile number, email, or address.
12 What is the change in Regional Director designation?
MCA has updated the designation from “Regional Director (Northern Region), Noida” to “Regional Director, Northern Region Directorate-I.” This is an administrative change and does not affect compliance requirements.
13 What happens if DIR-3 KYC is not filed on time?
Failure to file DIR-3 KYC within the prescribed time may result in DIN deactivation, which restricts the director from performing official duties.
14 Why has MCA introduced the 3-year KYC filing rule?
MCA introduced this rule to reduce compliance burden, improve ease of doing business, and ensure that DIN records remain accurate and verified.
15 Is the new Director KYC rule applicable to all companies?
Yes. The revised Director KYC rules apply to all directors of companies registered under the Companies Act, 2013, irrespective of company size.
Need Help with Director KYC or MCA Compliance?
If you are unsure about DIR-3 KYC filing, DIN reactivation, or updating your personal details under the new MCA Director KYC Rules 2026, professional guidance can help you avoid delays and penalties.
CharteredHelp provides expert assistance in:
DIR-3 KYC Web filing
DIN activation & reactivation
MCA compliance support
Director and company-related filings
