A Class 3 Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is the electronic signature used to sign filings on ICEGATE, DGFT, GST and government tender portals. It is issued by a Certifying Authority licensed by the Controller of Certifying Authorities under the IT Act, 2000. Import Export Advisor arranges your Class 3 DSC on a USB token for ₹2,199 with 2 years of validity, usually in 1 to 2 working days.
Digital Signature (DSC): key facts
- Class
- Class 3 (highest assurance)
- Issued by
- Licensed Certifying Authority under the CCA
- Our price
- ₹2,199 for 2 years
- Typical time
- 1 to 2 working days
- Verification
- Online KYC and video verification
- Used on
- ICEGATE, DGFT, GST, MCA, e-tender portals
Who is Digital Signature (DSC) for?
Right for you if
- Exporters registering on ICEGATE or an AD Code
- Directors and partners who sign DGFT applications
- Businesses bidding on government tenders
Not what you need if
- One-off DGFT filings that can be signed with Aadhaar e-sign, where the portal allows it
What documents are needed for Digital Signature (DSC)?
We send an exact checklist for your business type before filing. Typically you will need:
- PAN of the applicant
- Aadhaar for e-KYC
- Photograph and email/mobile
- For organisation DSC: business PAN and authorisation letter
Why do exporters need a Class 3 DSC?
ICEGATE registration and AD Code registration need a Class 3 DSC, and it is the standard way to sign DGFT applications. Without one, these filings cannot be signed.
How is a DSC issued?
You complete online KYC and a short video verification, the Certifying Authority approves the request, and the certificate is downloaded onto a USB token ready to use.
- 01Submit KYC
- 02Video verification
- 03DSC issued on token
- 04Ready to use on portals
How long is a DSC valid?
DSCs are issued for 1 to 3 years. Our ₹2,199 price covers a 2-year Class 3 certificate, after which it must be renewed or reissued.
What the ₹2,199 fee includes
- Class 3 certificate for 2 years
- USB token
- Help with KYC and video verification
- Installation help for ICEGATE and DGFT
Government and council fees, where they apply, are stated before filing. Compare every fee on the pricing page.
Digital Signature (DSC): frequently asked questions
How much does a Class 3 DSC cost?
Our price is ₹2,199 for a 2-year Class 3 DSC. See all fees on the pricing page.
Can one DSC be used for DGFT and ICEGATE?
Yes. A Class 3 DSC registered to the authorised signatory can be used on both, and on GST and tender portals.
Is a USB token required?
Yes. Class 3 certificates are stored on a cryptographic USB token, which is included.
Can I get a DSC without visiting an office?
Yes. KYC and video verification are done online.
Guides for this service
Other export services
Sources and official portals
Import Export Advisor is a private consultancy, not a government body. Approval decisions rest with DGFT, Customs and the relevant councils.