The National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) has mandated that KYC (Know Your Customer) verification must be completed before registering any .IN domain. This rule, effective August 1, 2025, applies to all .IN domain registrations including .CO.IN, .ORG.IN, .NET.IN, .FIRM.IN, and .IND.IN extensions.
This blog covers everything you need to know about this updated requirement — why it’s necessary, who must comply, how the process works, and answers to all common questions.
Why Is KYC Mandatory Before .IN Domain Registration?
- To strengthen national cybersecurity and domain ownership transparency
- To prevent misuse of domains for phishing, spam, or cybercrime
- To maintain accurate registrant information for legal accountability
- To comply with India’s government Digital India and Internet Governance policies
Domains can no longer be registered or renewed unless KYC verification is successfully completed beforehand. This eliminates any previous grace periods and ensures only verified owners hold .IN domains.
Who Must Complete KYC?
| Registrant Type | KYC Required? | Accepted Documents |
|---|---|---|
| Indian Individuals | Yes | Aadhaar (via DigiLocker preferred), PAN, Passport, Voter ID, Driving Licence |
| Indian Companies/Organizations | Yes | Certificate of Incorporation + Authorized Signatory’s ID |
| Foreign Individuals | Yes | Passport, Government ID, Embassy letter, etc. |
| Foreign Organizations | Yes | Business registration + Signed declaration of Indian connection |
Note: Only Indian residents or entities are eligible to register or renew .IN domains.
How to Complete the KYC Process Before Registering a Domain?
- Initiate KYC verification through your chosen registrar’s platform before proceeding with domain registration.
- Submit KYC documents via DigiLocker e-KYC or upload self-attested scanned copies as per NIXI guidelines.
- Ensure that your identity documents and WHOIS data match exactly.
- For foreign registrants with Indian connections, submit the required declaration confirming eligibility.
- Only after successful KYC completion will the registrar allow you to register your .IN domain.
What Happens If KYC Is Not Completed?
- Domain registration attempts will be rejected until KYC is verified.
- Registrars will not activate the domain or allow renewal without completed KYC.
- Websites and email services linked to unverified domains will not function.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is KYC needed before I can register a .IN domain?
Yes, KYC verification must be completed before any .IN domain registration or renewal.
Q2. What types of documents are accepted for KYC?
Aadhaar (via DigiLocker preferred), PAN, Passport, Voter ID, Driving Licence for individuals. Companies require Certificate of Incorporation plus authorized signatory ID.
Q3. Can I register a domain first and complete KYC later?
No, the domain registration will be blocked until KYC is finished.
Q4. What if my WHOIS information does not match my KYC details?
Your KYC submission will be rejected; you must correct and ensure exact matching details.
Q5. Who can register .IN domains under the new rules?
Only Indian residents or entities with valid KYC can register or renew .IN domains.
Q6. How do foreign registrants comply with KYC?
Foreign registrants must submit passports plus a signed declaration proving Indian business or personal connection.
Summary
| KYC Timing | Must be completed before registration |
| Accepted Documents | Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, etc. |
| Registration Without KYC | Not allowed |
| WHOIS Data | Must exactly match KYC documents |
| Eligibility | Only Indian residents/entities, or foreign with Indian connection |
For more details on the applicable government regulations, please refer to the following links:
For any questions or assistance with completing your .IN domain KYC verification process, please contact your domain registrar or Merahost’s support team.