In the current business climate, many Indian firms are working to increase their reach and credibility outside their home country, and obtaining a D-U-N-S Number, a unique nine-digit business identification number from Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) is a necessary step. The D-U-N-S Number establishes your firm’s identity, credibility, and visibility in one of the most competitive markets in the world.
For Indian entrepreneurs who want to work with international partners, register on marketplaces such as Apple or Google, or bid on international tenders, a D-U-N-S Number has been an important requirement.
This paper shall discuss what a D-U-N-S Number is, the importance of this number, and how to request a D-U-N-S Number online in 2025 in India.
What Is a D-U-N-S Number?
A D-U-N-S Number (Data Universal Numbering System) is a nine-digit unique identification number issued to businesses globally so they can be checked and monitored for company information. The D-U-N-S Number helps create a reputable business profile and creates a universal standard for identifying businesses globally. Over 330 million businesses use a D-U-N-S Number, and many multinational corporations and governmental organizations trust it for supplier verification, credit checking, and risk management.
Why You Should Get a D-U-N-S Number
The following are some of the important benefits of obtaining a D-U-N-S Number:
- Global credibility — It provides identification of your business that can be verified globally.
- Access to global platforms — A D-U-N-S Number is required by Apple Developer, Google Play, and many more international platforms and marketplaces.
- Confidence among suppliers and customers — A D-U-N-S Number shows transparency and genuineness to the prospective customers.
- Permanent identification: Your D-U-N-S Number is permanent and remains with your business forever when issued.
- Part and parcel of international business -Export, import, and service firms can use a D-U-N-S Number to offer credibility to international business partners.
Who Can Apply?
Types of businesses in India that are eligible to apply D-U-N-S Number include:
- Private Limited Companies
- Limited Liability Partnerships (LLP).
- Public Limited Companies
- Registered Startups and MSMEs.
- NGOs, Trusts, and Associations.
- Registered Sole Proprietorships.
Nevertheless, to be successful in the applications, your business must be legally formed, and it should have a valid business address and contacts.
Documents Required to Apply for a D-U-N-S Number in India (2025 Checklist)
The information and documents that you would need to have before commencing the application process are as follows.
BCertificate of Incorporation/Business Registration
- Business Registration/ certificate of incorporation.
- PAN Card of the Company
- GST Registration Certificate (where applicable)
- Present evidence of registered business address, e.g., utility bill/rent agreement.
- Contact details of the company and the authorized representative’s contact details (email/phone number).
- Employees and Year of Inception.
- Form of Business (LLP, Private Ltd, Partnership, etc.)
- Financial reports or audited reports (when demanded by D&B)
- Identification Proof of an authorized signatory (Aadhaar, Passport, etc.)
The tidy availability of these documents will help garner a swift approval process.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for a D-U-N-S Number Online from India
Step 1: Check if Your Business Already Has a D-U-N-S Number
Initial to your application, consult the D&B database lookup to confirm your firm is not existing with a D-U-N-S Number. This is important to prevent delays or possible denials due to overlap on behalf of D&B.
Step 2: Visit the Official D&B India Website
Go to the official site of Dun and Bradstreet India. Ensure that you are on a legitimate and official registered site of D&B and not on any third party site.
Step 3: Fill Out the Online Application Form
Add all the information, which will be used in the registration, and fill them in, with full details such as legal name of business, address, registration number, type of business (e.g. sole proprietorship, corporation, etc.), number of employees and contact details.
Step 4: Upload the Required Documents
Post the above documentation. Ensure that documents are intelligible, written and current. The unclear files and the documents not provided can postpone the processing.
Step 5: Verification by D&B
When your submission to D&B is complete, Dun & Bradstreet will telephone you with a confirmation of your verification. During this stage, please be sure that the contact information listed is up to date and that you’re able to be reached promptly, as you may not always be called if additional time is needed to confirm.
Step 6: Receive Your D-U-N-S Number
Once your application is approved, you will get an email about your nine-digit D-U-N-S Number that will be assigned to your company record in D&B’s global database.
Step 7: Maintain and Update Your Business Profile
After you obtain your D-U-N-S Number, it is critical to keep your D&B company record up to date. You must update your information with D&B if your address changes, your owners change, or if your structure changes.
Timeline and Cost in 2025
- Normal processing: About 20-30 business days (typically free of cost).
- Expedited processing: About 5-8 business days (additional costs may apply).
The amount of time required to process your D-U-N-S Number may vary based on document verification and communication with D&B.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Incorrect or incomplete business name: Always use the exact legal name as reflected on your registration certificate.
- Unclear or incomplete documents: All documents must be scanned clearly and show all pages.
- Not checking to see if you already have a D-U-N-S Number. Applying more than once can delay the approval process.
- Incorrect contact information: Keep your business email and phone number active for verification calls from D&B.
- Not updating your information after approval. In the event that your company changes, you must update your information with D&B to maintain your credibility.
Why Indian Businesses Should Apply in 2025
Most Indian exporters, startups, and lots of tech developers run their entire business on international platforms and their clients are looking for verified partners.
A D-U-N-S Number helps you:
- Build global trust and transparency
- Open access to international markets
- Improve chances of qualifying for global contracts and vendor lists
- Increase your credit-worthiness and brand reputation
With international trade and digital platforms continuing to grow, the D-U-N-S Number presents a distinct advantage for Indian companies.
Tips for a Smooth Application Process
- Confirm your company information prior to submitting your application
- Be sure to use your official company e-mail ID (do not use personal e-mail ID)
- Follow-up promptly with any calls or e-mails from D&B to complete verification
- Keep a separate paper copy of all submitted documents
- If your timeline is short, consider selecting expedited processing
- Update your D-U-N-S profile annually.
Benefits of a D-U-N-S Number for Your Business
- Global Presence: Your company has become an international listing that is now known to more than 90 percent of Fortune 500 companies.
- Credibility and Transparency: Collaboration and customers will be able to prove your authenticity, which will improve your relationship at work.
- Faster Approval for Platforms: A D-U-N-S number is required for: Apple Developer Program, Google Play Developer, and all other platforms that you want to list your business.
- A Business Credit Profile: A D-U-N-S number helps create an overall perception of your financial credentials, which is vital for funding or acquiring a loan.
- Adherence to Global Stipulations: Shows your company is within a worldwide verification process.
How Device Doctor India Can Help
If you believe that the process is complicated and could take time, Device Doctor India is the exact professional service provider to take the entire procedure icon.
Whether it involves supporting the documentation, interfacing with D&B, or expediting approval, a professional will ultimately save you time and prevent unnecessary mistakes in completing the registration process.
Device Doctor India also helps entrepreneurs with:
- UAE and global businessman registration.
- MOA, AOA, License documentation.
- Business verification and compliance needs.
By outsourcing the registration process to Device Doctor India, you can focus on expanding your business while entrusting the compliance and documentation to professionals.
Conclusion
Acquiring a D-U-N-S Number via a web-based initiative out of India in 2025 is not especially complicated as long as the proper procedures are followed and the correct documents are obtained and submitted.
Your D-U-N-S Number is more than just a number – it is an international identity for your business and will be recognized by corporations, platforms, and government agencies across the globe.
Regardless of whether you are an exporter, tech startup, or service provider, obtaining your D-U-N-S Number will enhance your credibility to the world at large and provide better opportunities for development and global opportunities.
Take the time now to apply and get your business recognized on the international stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a nine-digit unique identifier that assigns businesses a global identity and credibility as they do business globally.
No, it is not, but it is a requirement for some global registration, vendor listings, and platforms, like Apple Developer or Google Play.
It will take 20–30 business days for standard processing and 5–8 business days for expedited service.
Yes, provided it is legally registered with valid business documentation.
Standard applications are often free, but faster (expedited) processing may involve additional costs.
