What is Form DIR-12?

Form DIR-12 is an important compliance e-form required under the Companies Act, 2013. It is used to notify the Registrar of Companies (ROC) about any appointment, resignation, removal, or change in designation of directors or Key Managerial Personnel (KMP) of a company.

Filing Form DIR-12 ensures that your company’s records with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) remain up-to-date and legally valid.

When is Form DIR-12 Filing Mandatory?

Companies must file Form DIR-12 with the ROC within 30 days of any of the following events:

• Appointment of a director or KMP
• Resignation or cessation of an existing director or KMP
•  Change in the designation (e.g., from Director to Managing Director)

Note: If multiple such events occur within the same 30-day period, they can be reported in a single DIR-12 form. For events outside this period, separate forms must be filed.

 Who Can File Form DIR-12?

Form DIR-12 must be filed by any of the following:

• A Company Secretary (CS)
• A Director or authorised professional
• A person duly authorised by the Board of Directors
  

 Documents Required for Form DIR-12 Filing

Below is a table showing the key documents required, based on the type of event:

All attachments must be in PDF format, and total file size should not exceed 10MB.

Step-by-Step Form DIR-12 Filing Process (on MCA Portal)

Here is the simplified process for filing Form DIR-12 online:

1. Download the DIR-12 e-form from the MCA portal
2. Log in to the portal using company credentials
3. Enter Company Identification Number (CIN) and click “Pre-Fill”
4. Provide details of the director/KMP being appointed, resigned, or changed
5. Attach all required documents in PDF format
6. Affix Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) of the authorised signatory
7. Submit the form and pay the prescribed fee
8. An SRN (Service Request Number) is generated as proof of submission
   

 Timeline to File Form DIR-12

• Must be filed within 30 days of the appointment, resignation, or change in designation.
• Delay in filing leads to late fees and possible penalties.
  

 Fee Structure and Late Penalties

 Government Filing Fee: Based on the authorised capital of the company

 Late Filing Fees:

Penalty for Non-Compliance:

• Company: Up to ₹50,000
• Officers in Default: ₹50,000 + ₹500/day of continuing default
  

 Common Mistakes to Avoid While Filing DIR-12

• Incorrect Director Information: Always verify DIN, PAN, and spelling of names
• Missing or wrong documents: Upload certified resolutions and proper proof of resignation/appointment
• Incorrect event date: Match with Board Resolution date
• Invalid DSC: Use valid and updated digital signature
• Late filing: Always monitor deadlines to avoid unnecessary penalties
  

 Practical Tips for Seamless DIR-12 Filing

• Keep a digital record of submitted forms and SRN acknowledgment
• For events occurring on different dates (beyond 30 days apart), use separate DIR-12 forms
• Get resolutions and consent forms certified as “True Copies”
• Keep an eye on the latest MCA updates and circulars
• Consider consulting a professional for error-free compliance
  

Final Thoughts

Form DIR-12 plays a vital role in maintaining legal transparency and corporate governance. Whether you’re appointing a new director, resigning, or changing designations, this form must be filed accurately and within deadlines.

Non-compliance can lead to heavy penalties and legal challenges. Ensure all filings are done with attention to detail and proper documentation.

FAQs on Form DIR-12 Filing

Q1. What is the time limit for filing Form DIR-12?
🡪 30 days from the date of appointment/resignation/change.

Q2. Can I file DIR-12 for multiple directors?
🡪 Yes, if all changes occur within the same 30-day period.

Q3. Is Digital Signature mandatory for DIR-12?
🡪 Yes, DSC of an authorised director/CS/professional is required.

Q4. What happens if Form DIR-12 is not filed?
🡪 The company and officers may be fined up to ₹50,000 + daily penalties.

Q5. Where can I file DIR-12?
🡪 Online via the official MCA portal