ICSI Urges Continued Use of Certified Letterhead with UDIN
The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has introduced a significant update on its MCA21 V3 portal, integrating Form MGT-8 certification directly into the e-form MGT-7 as part of the Companies (Management and Administration) Amendment Rules, 2025.
This enhancement aims to streamline the annual compliance filing process for companies.
The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) issued an advisory on July 18, 2025, to guide professionals navigating the revised filing process. The advisory underscores that although MGT-8 certification is now captured as a static field within MGT-7, any qualifying remarks can still be added using the ‘Optional Attachment’ field in Form MGT-7, in line with FAQ No. 37 issued by the MCA.
Recommended Practice Amidst Transition
To uphold due diligence and maintain credibility during this transitional phase, ICSI recommends that company secretaries:
- Continue to certify compliance under Form MGT-8 on the official letterhead of a peer-reviewed Practice Unit.
- Generate a Unique Document Identification Number (UDIN) as per ICSI guidelines.
- Upload this certification as an optional attachment with Form MGT-7 until further clarification or formal rule amendments are issued by MCA.
Representation and Resources
ICSI has also submitted a formal representation to the MCA on June 6, 2025, seeking modifications in the layout of Form MGT-8 after reviewing Form MGT-7. The document is available for public viewing on ICSI’s official website.
In addition, members are encouraged to review the following resources to ensure a smooth transition to the new system:
- FAQs on Lot 3 Forms
- Presentation on Annual e-Forms Enhancements
Notification Details
Date: July 18, 2025
- ED Raids Anil Ambani-Linked Firms Over Rs. 3,000 Cr Yes Bank Loan Fraud; SBI Labels Him ‘Fraud’ Account Holder - July 24, 2025
- Customs Act Applies, But Baggage Rules Don’t Cover Transit Passengers: CESTAT Issues Corrigendum - July 24, 2025
- Cheque Bounce Complaint Valid Even Without Naming Partnership Firm as Accused: Supreme Court - July 24, 2025