How Long Does It Take to Get a D-U-N-S Number in India – Full Timeline

If you are an Indian business expanding internationally, bidding on a government tender, or getting your business listed on a platform like Apple Developer or Google Play, you will be required to have a D-U-N-S Number.

This is a unique nine-digit business identifier assigned to you as the business owner by Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) to verify the credibility of your business and establish a global business identity. However, one question every entrepreneur has whenever talking about registering for a D-U-N-S Number is “How long does a D-U-N-S Number take to register in India?” The answer is complicated and depends on a collection of factors that include your type of business, whether or not you have all the necessary documentation completed for the D-U-N-S Number application, and whether you decide to take the standard route or the expedited route. 

What the Official Timeline Says

D&B India claims that it takes up to 30 business days to get the number. For users who require the number sooner – for instance, app developers and/or exporters – there is an expedited option which could allow you to get your number within 5 business days.

So, depending on how ready you are in terms of preparation for timing and which option you select, getting a D-U-N-S Number will take you between 5 – 30 business days.

Step-by-Step Timeline Breakdown

1. Document Preparation (1–3 Business Days)

Prior to commencing your application, you should collect and validate all necessary details about your business.

You’ll need:

• Registered business name and address
• PAN and GST certificates
• Incorporation Certificate (for companies) or MSME certificate (for small businesses)
• Contact phone number and official email ID
• Number of employees and your nature/business industry

   

Tips: Ensure the information matches on all your documents. Even small differences (such as Rd instead of Road) can lead to delays.

2. Application Submission (Same Day)

Visit the official Dun and Bradstreet India website and fill in the D-U-N-S Number registration online form. As you know, it is important to upload all your required documents.

This process may take you less than a day, provided you have your documents on hand.

3. Verification by D&B (2–10 Business Days)

Dun & Bradstreet will also confirm your information after you place your application.

They will:

• Ensure that the documents that you turned in to the business registration department are the same.
• Verify your contact details either by telephone or email.
• Ensure that the address of your business is correct.

In case of any mismatches or missing information, D&B will contact you to clear up the information. Their response time increases, so does the speed at which they can take the process up the ladder.

Time estimate:

• When the right papers are provided, 2-5 business days.
• Clarification required – 10 days with a maximum of 10 business days.

   

4. Assignment of D-U-N-S Number (1–3 Business Days)

If the verification is successful, you will receive your unique D-U-N-S Number – consisting of 9 digits via email from D&B.

You can now use this D-U-N-S number for the following:

• Apple Developer or Google Play registration
• Vendor registrations 
• Government or export documentation

   

5. Post-Assignment: Maintain Your Profile (Ongoing)

Your D-U-N-S number never expires, but to maintain trust and accuracy in information shared globally the D&B recommends keeping your information and records current and relevant for things like your address, contact information, ownership changes, and so on.

Summary Timeline

Common Reasons for Delays

1. Incomplete Documents – Missing or conflicting information across certificates.
2. Unable to Reach Contact Person – D&B needs to confirm information; failure to respond to their phone or email means a slowdown of the process.
3. Multiple Locations – Each corporate branch may require additional verification.
4. Large Number of Applications- Delays during peak periods.
5. Irrationality- Typos, misspellings, or false information may evoke a manual review.

    

Tips to Speed Up Your D-U-N-S Number Approval

1. Carry Documents: Have the slightest match with PAN, GST, and Incorporation.
2. Send a Business Email: Using a Gmail or Yahoo account might be used against you in the verification process. Use your domain emails.
3. Answer Promptly: If D&B calls or emails you, respond immediately. 
4. Reconfirm your Business Name: Use the official corporation name listed in the government database. 
5. Request Expedited Processing: If time sensitive, pay for a 5-day service fee.

    

What to Do After Receiving Your D-U-N-S Number

• Add D-U-N-S Number to the official website or vendor document
• Use a D-U-N-S Number to register for accounts with Apple Developer, Google Play Console, or other global platforms.
• Maintain your business/enterprise profile: Regular updates ensure people can find you easily. 
• Use D-U-N-S Number to demonstrate Trust as a business, banking institution, or client.

   

Conclusion

So, what is the time frame for obtaining a D-U-N-S Number in India?

The answer largely depends on how well you prepare your application. But generally:

• Standard timeline—7-20 business days.
• Fast track option—around 5 business days. 

If you have all the documents that have been validated for approval, it may be possible to obtain your number in under a week. For these businesses, pursuing a D-U-N-S Number is not just about pursuing compliance; it is also about credibility and opportunities, both in and outside of India.

Be prepared, be responsive, and you could have your D-U-N-S Number before you know it.