If you import or export, the DGFT portal needs a specific kind of Digital Signature Certificate — one tied to your IEC. Here is what a DGFT DSC is and how to set it up.
What is a DGFT DSC?
A DGFT certificate is a Class 3 Organisation Combo (Sign + Encrypt) certificate that additionally embeds your Import Export Code (IEC). The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) portal uses it to authenticate your firm when you apply for licences, claim benefits and file foreign-trade documents.
Who needs a DGFT certificate?
Any business with an IEC that files on the DGFT portal — to obtain or amend an IEC, apply for advance authorisations or EPCG, claim export incentives, or sign other foreign-trade applications. A regular Class 3 certificate will not work on DGFT because it does not carry the IEC.
DGFT DSC vs a regular Class 3 certificate
The difference is the embedded IEC and the Combo (encryption) capability. For GST or MCA you use a standard Class 3 certificate; for the DGFT portal specifically you need the IEC-linked DGFT variant. Many import-export businesses keep both. Unsure? Compare options in which DSC you need.
How to register your DSC on the DGFT portal
Log in to the DGFT portal with your IEC, go to the DSC registration/linking section, run the signing utility, select your DGFT certificate from the token and link it to the IEC. Once linked, you can digitally sign every DGFT application with it.
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