If you sign GST returns with a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) and recently got a new USB token (dongle), your old emSigner may not recognise it. GSTN has released emSigner version 3.3 for tokens issued on or after 21 September 2026.
Do you need to upgrade?
| Your situation | What to do |
|---|---|
| Existing valid DSC and token that still work | Nothing. Keep using your current emSigner. |
| Signing fails, or your certificate doesn't show up even though drivers are installed | Upgrade to emSigner 3.3 (it also supports older tokens). |
| New token issued from 21 Sep 2026 (new or renewed certificate on a new dongle) | You must upgrade to emSigner 3.3. Older versions won't work. |
System requirements
- Operating system: Windows 10 or 11 (64-bit), Linux (Ubuntu 18 and above) or macOS (10.6 and above), 64-bit only
- RAM: 8 GB or more. Storage: 64 GB or more
- Java: Java 1.8 (OpenJDK or Oracle) must already be installed. It isn't bundled, and Java 9 and above are not supported.
- Browsers: current Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Safari and Opera are all fine.
How to upgrade
- Check your computer meets the requirements above, especially Java 1.8.
- Download and install emSigner 3.3 from the GST portal at gst.gov.in/help/docsigner.
- Restart the browser and try signing again.
What about your existing DSC?
Under the Controller of Certifying Authorities' (CCA) advisory, DSCs loaded on FIPS 140-2 dongles on or before 21 September 2026 can be used until they expire. Renewal or fresh issue will generally need a FIPS 140-3 dongle, subject to CCA's exceptions, so expect a new dongle at your next renewal.
Still stuck?
Raise a ticket on the GST Helpdesk. Common causes are a newer Java version, a 32-bit system, or missing token drivers.
