Freelancers and sole proprietors in India may find themselves in situations where they need to obtain a D-U-N-S® Number when applying for international marketplaces, business verification, or developer programs such as the Apple Developer Program or Google Play Console.
A common question from freelancers and sole proprietors is whether they can apply for and own a D-U-N-S® Number as well.
The answer to this question is yes. This article will discuss how D-U-N-S® Numbers work, what freelancers and sole proprietors need to know about them, and how Duns India can help you quickly and efficiently obtain your D-U-N-S® Number.
What Is a D-U-N-S® Number?
The D-U-N-S® Number is a nine-digit unique identifier for businesses provided by Dun & Bradstreet (D&B). It is sometimes referred to as a Data Universal Numbering System (D-U-N-S®) Number.
The D-U-N-S® Number can be viewed as a global digital identity for your business, and it is used around the world to validate the existence, legitimacy, and operational capabilities of your business.
A D-U-N-S® Number helps businesses and professionals to:
- Establish a verifiable business identity.
- Receive international recognition within app stores and platforms.
- Possibly apply for and receive foreign contracts and/or financial assistance.
- Have access to many of the same opportunities to partner with major/global brands as larger businesses.
For example, if a business registers as an organisation with Apple Developer Program or verifies its account with Google Play Console, then a D-U-N-S® Number will typically be required.
Can a Sole Proprietor Apply for a D-U-N-S® Number in India?
Yes, absolutely.
Yes, a sole proprietorship can get a D-U-N-S number in India, as Dun & Bradstreet (DB) provides D-U-N-S registration for various types of business entities.
- Private Limited Company
- LLP (Limited Liability Partnership)
- Partnership Firm
- Trust or NGO
- Sole Proprietorship
- Freelancers / Independent Professionals
If you have an established business name, physical address and can verify/validate your business activities, then you can register for a D-U-N-S number in India.
Why Freelancers and Sole Proprietors Need a D-U-N-S® Number
One of the reasons why many Freelancers do not consider the D-U-N-S® Number as essential is because they do not recognise the potential this number could represent. However, in this day and age, many opportunities may arise from having a D-U-N-S® Number. Below are some reasons for obtaining a D-U-N-S® number:
1. Build Global Credibility
Many international clients, platforms and partners rely on the Dun & Bradstreet database to perform their company/business due diligence. Having a D-U-N-S® Number helps prove you are credible and established.
2. Apple Developer & Google Play Console Verification
Google may require a D-U-N-S® number in order to verify that the company is an actual entity and not a personal entity when using a business name to publish an app, and for example, this information is very useful to:
- App developers
- Software freelancers
- Digital agencies
3. Easier Loan & Credit Access
D&B providing banks with D&B data to determine your company’s credibility.
Having a D-U-N-S® Profile will help you obtain loan(s), grant(s), or partner(s).
4. International Business Opportunities
United States, UK, and Europe are more comfortable working with companies that are listed in the Dun & Bradstreet global database.
If you are a freelancer or sole proprietor, having a D-U-N-S® Number gives you an international presence.
Documents Required for Sole Proprietors & Freelancers
To apply for a D-U-N-S® Number in India, you need basic documents to prove your business identity.
| Requirement | Accepted Documents |
| Business Name | Proprietor name or registered trade name |
| Address Proof | Electricity bill, rent agreement, or office lease |
| Business Proof | GST Certificate / Udyam / MSME Registration |
| Identity Proof | PAN Card or Aadhaar Card |
| Communication | Valid email ID and mobile number |
| Online Presence | Website, portfolio, or business profile (recommended) |
Tip: For anyone without GST registration or a Udyam (MSME) registration, the application process for a Udyam registration is encouraged as it will greatly increase the chance of approval.
Step-by-Step Process to Get a D-U-N-S® Number as a Sole Proprietor
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
When gathering your documents, ensure that all documents contain the same wording regarding your business name, email address, phone number and mailing address.
Step 2: Fill the Online Application
Provide your business name, postal address and type of services offered, date of establishment and type of ownership in the online application.
Step 3: Upload Your Verification Documents: Upload both business and identity verification documents that clearly demonstrate your business and identity.
Step 4: Verification by Dun & Bradstreet: Dun & Bradstreet will verify that your information is accurate and complete. This can take five to ten days using standard processing.
Step 5: Receive Your D-U-N-S® Number: When your application has been verified and approved by Dun & Bradstreet, your D-U-N-S® Number will be sent to you via e-mail.
How Freelancers Can Apply Without Formal Registration
Freelancers can apply without registering with any government authority if they can provide proof of their work as freelancers.
The proof could be one or more of the following:
- A website that markets themselves (as a freelancer or business)
- Invoices or distinct contractual/legal agreements issued to client(s) as a freelancer
- A portfolio of work samples or profiles listed on major job boards (such as LinkedIn)
- An Office (home-office or co-working space) utilized for doing business
Identified services offered (e.g., writing content, creating mobile apps, providing consulting services).
How Much Does a D-U-N-S® Number Cost in India?
- Standard D-U-N-S® Number (FREE)
- Expedited Processing Fee (OPTIONAL) (1-2 Days, Depending on Rate/Processing Speed)
- Professional Assistance through Duns India = ₹5,999 (inclusive of all fees)
Duns India services are extremely beneficial to Freelancers and first-time applicants to prevent potential mistakes and delays and rejections of applications.
How Duns India Helps Freelancers & Sole Proprietors
At Duns India, we only provide D-U-N-S® Number Registration Services for businesses based out of India.
Our Support Includes:
- Checking Eligibility of all Freelancers and Sole Proprietors
- Verifying all Documents and Making Corrections
- Submitting Applications with zero errors
- Coordinating to receive quicker approvals
- Supporting Freelancers and Sole Proprietors through Apple/Google Developer Verification
Whether you are a freelancer, consultant, or independent developer, we ensure your business is professionally verified and globally recognised.
Common Challenges & How to Fix Them
| Challenge | Solution |
| Missing business proof | Apply for Udyam/MSME registration |
| Address mismatch | Use the same address across all documents |
| Delayed verification | Choose professional support or express service |
| No website | Create a simple portfolio or business page |
Conclusion
A D-U-N-S® Number is more than just something that needs to be acquired; it establishes your credibility as an already verified professional in the global business community. It provides access to the app store, connects you with international clients, provides access to funding sources, and connects you with potential business partners.
For a quick, easy-to-complete application free of mistakes, Duns India can assist you throughout the entire process. Get your D-U-N-S® Number today at Duns India.
FAQs
Yes, just provide proof of your professional activities.
A standard application takes approximately 5 to 10 working days, while an express application takes approximately 1 to 2 working days.
Yes, the application for a D-U-N-S® Number in India is free of charge.
Yes, Udyam/MSME registration or proof of being a freelancer is acceptable.
DunsIndia manages the entire process of obtaining a D-U-N-S® Number accurately and quickly.