The economic climate is changing rapidly so companies in India have expanded to other countries. Every business regardless of their size Must present their profile and credibility to enter the global market. In today’s global economy, each company needs an internationally recognized D-U-N-S® Number to create credibility. The D-U-N-S Number is a 9 digit identification number created by Dun & Bradstreet (D&B). You have the option to complete your D-U-N-S Number registration remotely in India without having to visit an office, government office, or other physical location. The entire process of D-U-N-S Number registration and verification is done on the internet; therefore, the D-U-N-S Number is now available to every registered business.
In this complete guide, You will learn the process to follow to apply for an online D-U-N-S Number, what businesses are eligible for a D-U-N-S Number, what the benefits of having a D-U-N-S Number are, how to register for a D-U-N-S Number, and other requirements necessary to obtain a D-U-N-S Number.
What Is a D-U-N-S Number?
A D-U-N-S Number (Data Universal Numbering System) is an identifier used throughout the world to determine whether or not a business has credibility and is financially stable in all of the over two hundred countries. It was developed and is maintained by Dun & Bradstreet. Recognised around the globe by:
- Global Companies,
- Government Contracting Agencies,
- International Funding Agencies,
- Financial Institutions, and
- Export Agencies, and
- Global Supply Chain Networks
Unlike Indian Products Identification Numbers (i.e. Goods and Services Tax Registration Number, Permanent Account Number, Import Export Code, Corporate Identification Number) that can only be used within India, D-U-N-S Numbers are accepted globally and are essential to conduct business internationally.
Is Physical Verification Required?
Dun & Bradstreet India is offering 100% remote digital registration. This means:
- You do not need to visit the office,
- There will be no need for a face-to-face meeting to verify your identity,
- You will not need to submit paper documentation to Dun & Bradstreet.
- You will not need to use agents or brokers to assist you, and When registering for a D-U-N-S Number
Everything will be done online using your own company information and scanned documents.
Why Indian Businesses Prefer Remote Online D-U-N-S Registration
1. No Travel or Physical Appointment Needed: Businesses from any area of India, including rural MSMEs, can apply online using a mobile phone or computer.
2. Faster Application & Approval: Digital processing reduces the time that businesses have to wait for their application to be processed. Generally approved applications have a lead time of approximately 5-7 business days, with also fast-track application processing available.
3. Zero Paperwork: All required documentation is provided via online upload. There is no requirement for a business to submit any physical copies of documents at any stage of the application process.
4. Suitable for All Business Types
The online process supports:
- Sole proprietorships
- MSMEs & startups
- Private limited companies
- LLPs & partnerships
- Exporters
- Manufacturers
- Service providers
5. Safe & Secure
D&B adheres to established international standards for the verification of business information. All business information is encrypted and processed confidentially.
Who Should Apply for a D-U-N-S Number?
In order for a business based in India to do business internationally, it should obtain a D-U-N-S number. This is particularly important for:
- Businesses supplying multinational firms
- Business start-ups looking for investors globally
- Manufacturers wanting to sell to buyers overseas
- Businesses that are selling products through global marketplaces such as Amazon, Apple, Alibaba, etc.
- Corporations that are bidding on global contracts
- Service Providers working with overseas customers
A D-U-N-S Number provides your business with greater credibility and opens up many prospects even if you do not currently export.
Documents Required for Online Registration
Most Indian businesses only need basic documents:
- Indian Business PAN
- GST Certificate (if applicable)
- Udyam/MSME Certificate
- CIN or LLP certificate for registered companies
- Proof of Address for your business
- Your contact details as the owner or as a Director
Your business’s details and your supporting documentation must match what you provided in your application.
How to Apply Online for a D-U-N-S Number in India
Here is a complete step-by-step online registration guide:
Step 1: Visit Dun & Bradstreet India’s Official Website: Go to the D&B India portal and open the D-U-N-S registration form.
Step 2: Select Your Business Category
Choose whether you are:
- MSME
- Corporate company
- Exporter
- Startup
- Manufacturer
Step 3: Fill in Business Information
You need to enter:
- Official business name
- Legal structure
- Business address
- Industry type
- GST/PAN/CIN/IEC details
- Contact information
- Year of establishment
Step 4: Upload Documents
Upload clear digital copies of:
- PAN/GST/MSME certificate
- Registration documents
- Any supporting licenses
Step 5: Verification: D&B verifies the business details remotely using your documents and public data sources.
Step 6: Receive Your D-U-N-S Number: Once verification is done, your nine-digit number is emailed to you and listed on the D&B global database.
How Much Does a D-U-N-S Number Cost?
- Standard processing may be available at no cost.
- Fast-track or urgent processing may involve an additional fee.
Cost depends on business category and speed of verification.
Benefits of Remote D-U-N-S Registration for Indian Companies
1. Enables Global Credibility
With a D-U-N-S number, businesses become part of the world’s most trusted verification system.
2. Required for Global Marketplaces
Platforms like:
- Amazon Global Selling
- Apple Supplier Portal
- Alibaba
- Walmart Supplier System
require a D-U-N-S number for seller verification.
3. Required by Multinational Companies
Global giants such as:
- Pfizer
- Ford
- Samsung
- IBM
use the D-U-N-S system to verify suppliers.
4. Improves Export Opportunities
A D-U-N-S number helps exporters:
- Win more contracts
- Get faster onboarding
- Negotiate better payment terms
5. Builds a Global Financial Profile
D&B creates a credit file using:
- Payment history
- Business performance
- Operational details
- Legal records
This helps in getting international loans and trade finance.
- Decreased Risk Of Cross Border Fraud: Recognizing suppliers with established global identities allows international buyers to feel secure, resulting in faster payment processing and fewer transaction disputes.
- Faster Approval Of Foreign Tenders: To submit tenders for foreign government and UN/World Bank-sponsored projects, companies must first register with Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) and obtain a D-U-N-S number.
Common Myths About D-U-N-S Registration
Myth 1: You need to personally go to a D&B office to obtain a D-U-N-S number.
Reality: The entire registration process is available entirely online.
Myth 2: Only exporters are able to obtain a D-U-N-S number.
Fact: Businesses of all types seeking business opportunities outside their own country should obtain a D-U-N-S number.
Myth 3: Only large corporations can register with D&B to obtain a D-U-N-S Number.
Fact: Micro, small and medium enterprises and home-based businesses are eligible for registration with D&B to obtain a D-U-N-S Number.
Myth 4: A D-U-N-S Number replaces GST and/or CIN numbers.
Reality: A D-U-N-S number is not a replacement for but rather a supplement to GST and/or CIN numbers.
How Device Doctor India Helps with Remote D-U-N-S Registration
If you are considering expanding into an international market, Device Doctor India can provide you with the support you need in the following ways:
- Preparing your documents for the D-U-N-S registration
- Building your global-ready business Website
- Creating your International Product Catalogs
- Developing branding strategies that will allow you to succeed internationally
- Creating digital assets that will help establish credibility
- Implementing compliance requirements necessary for selling in global Markets
When combined with a professionally designed and maintained digital presence (e.g. A Website, Digital Catalogs, etc.),D-U-N-S numbers give businesses twice the chance of success when entering into global Markets.
Conclusion
The availability of remote online D-U-N-S registry services has brought international recognition of Indian businesses to all individuals in India.
There is no need for an entrepreneur to visit a local office or meet with an agent to complete any physical paperwork; everything is processed through the internet and provided in a secure, expedient and transparent manner.
For entrepreneurs who have aspirations to engage in global trade in the near future, whether they are planning on exporting their goods or deal with multinational corporations, obtaining a D-U-N-S number is no longer an option, but rather a necessary step forward.
When an entrepreneur has completed their D-U-N-S online registration, they have taken the first step towards gaining trust on the global stage, thereby creating opportunities for business at a global scale.
Ultimately, if an entrepreneur’s goal is to expand their business internationally by the year 2025 or beyond, using the D-U-N-S online registration is the simplest and quickest route to accomplishing that goal.
FAQs
Yes, the entire D-U-N-S process in India is completely digital, as entrepreneurs are able to upload all documents electronically and receive remote confirmation.
Normal processing can take from 5–7 business days; however, expedited processing (for payment) may be available.
While it is not legally mandatory, the inability to possess a D-U-N-S number legislation will limit your access to numerous global export opportunities.
Yes. Sole proprietors, MSMEs, home-based businesses, and startups are fully eligible. The process is simple and does not require physical verification.
Typically required documents include:
- PAN
- GST certificate
- CIN/LLP certificate (if applicable)
- MSME/Udyam certificate
- Business address proof
These can be uploaded directly on the online registration portal.


