The Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN) has issued an advance advisory for taxpayers and tax officers using DSC on the GST Portal. A new emSigner version 3.3 is being made available to ensure compatibility with DSC USB tokens issued on or after September 21, 2026.
With the current valid Digital Signature Certificates (DSC), users having their token working normally can continue using their current emSigner version. Those encountering signing failures or unable to detect their certificates can upgrade to emSigner 3.3, which is backwards compatible with existing tokens.
Those users who obtain a new DSC USB dongle on or after September 21, 2026, including new certificates, renewals, or replacement tokens, GSTN has mentioned that emSigner 3.3 shall be needed, as older versions will not function with such new tokens.
Also Read: Easy to Solve Error of emSigner While GST Return Filing with DSC
The updated version needs compatible system specifications, including a 64-bit operating system, at least 8 GB RAM, 64 GB storage, and Java 1.8. Java 9 and later versions are not supported. Users are enabled to download emSigner 3.3 through the GST Portal’s DSC/emSigner section.
The Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN) has mentioned that the current DSCs stored on FIPS 140-2 dongles before September 21, 2026, are not automatically invalidated and can continue to be employed till expiry, subject to the applicable CCA provisions.
Click here for Document Signer Installer: https://www.gst.gov.in/help/docsigner
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q.1 What is the New emSigner version announced by GSTN?
GSTN has declared a new version of its emSigner software, version 3.3.
Q.2 Who needs to use emSigner V3.3?
Users who are given new DSC USB tokens on or after 21st September 2026 will be required to use emSigner version 3.3. Existing users with valid, functioning DSCs can continue with their current version unless they encounter signing problems.
Q.3 Where can you download emSigner version 3.3?
You can download emSigner version 3.3 from the GST Portal, particularly from the DSC/emSigner section.
Q.4 What are the minimum system requirements for emSigner version 3.3?
emSigner 3.3 needs a 64-bit operating system (Windows 10/11, Ubuntu 18+, macOS 10.6+); it requires at least 8 GB of RAM, 64 GB of storage, and Java 1.8. Java 9 and later versions are not supported.
Q.5 Are Existing DSCs on FIPS 140-2 Dongles Still Valid After 21st Sept, 2026?
No, DSCs downloaded onto FIPS 140-2 dongles on or before 21st September 2026 are not automatically invalidated and can be used until their expiry, subject to CCA requirements.
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