The rise of mobile applications provides an opportunity for startups and businesses to connect with consumers around the world faster than ever! For example, SaaS platforms, eCommerce applications, Games, Fintech Products, or Business Utility Applications – if you plan to grow your business, publishing through an Apple App Store or Google Play may be one of the most critical elements to your success.
Unfortunately, many developers and companies in India have trouble verifying accounts on these platforms due largely to their lack of knowledge about one specific requirement – obtaining a D-U-N-S®️ Number.
To publish your applications under a company instead of individually, it’s necessary to be able to verify your business as an established legal entity. Many times, Apple and Google will request that you do so before they will approve any type of organization at all.
That’s where the D-U-N-S®️ Number comes into play.
On DNB India’s website, you will find out every detail and step necessary to obtain your D-U-N-S®️ Number for use within the App Store or Google Play Console, and suggestions on common mistakes that businesses should not make when attempting to register themselves with these two major application distribution networks.
What Is a D-U-N-S®️ Number?
The Data Universal Numbering System (D-U-N-S®️) number is a nine-digit business identification number that is unique to each business. This number, which is assigned by Dun & Bradstreet (D&B), serves as a globally recognized business identity and provides a means of verifying that a business legally exists and is operating as an actual business.
Many global organizations and platforms utilize the verification of their company’s D-U-N-S®️ number, including:
- Apple
- Amazon
- Microsoft
- Enterprise companies
- International procurement systems
Once a business is assigned a D-U-N-S®️ number, it becomes part of D&B’s global database.
Why App Store & Play Console Require a D-U-N-S®️ Number
Businesses: When Creating Organization Accounts on the App Store and Play Console?
When a business creates an organization account on either the App Store or Play Console, the verification of the business identity will typically occur prior to the account being approved. The reasons for this verification include:
- Confirming that the business legally exists
- Reducing fraudulent developer accounts
- Increasing trust in the platform
- Ensuring that the company provided accurate information
If the business verification is not done properly, it could delay application approvals and the establishment of the account.
Apple Developer Account and D-U-N-S®️ Number
Apple has a clear requirement that, in order to build an Apple Developer Organization Account, businesses will have to obtain a D-U-N-S®️ Number.
To verify business information through the D&B database, Apple will check:
- Legal company name
- Address of Business
- Status of the Organization
- Operational legitimacy
If the information provided cannot be matched with corresponding official records, the verification process could be unsuccessful.
Google Play Console and D-U-N-S®️ Verification
The Google Play Console may require businesses to verify their business status or organization accounts.
D-U-N-S®️ Numbers are not always required for all accounts immediately when verification occurs, but most businesses that have one can use it to help establish their identity as an internationally recognized business.
This is especially useful for:
- Startups
- SaaS companies
- App development agencies
- App publishers not located in the same country where their app is published (foreign entities)
- Providers of enterprise applications.
Who Should Apply for a D-U-N-S®️ Number?
D-U-N-S®️ Numbers are highly recommended for the following:
- App Developers.
- Startups.
- Information Technology Companies.
- SaaS Businesses.
- Mobile App Agencies.
- Technology Companies.
- Software Companies.
- Companies that will be publishing their Apps globally in other locations.
A D-U-N-S®️ Number is an important and prudent step to take before attempting to publish an App as a business, as it lends credibility and assistance as you build a successful company and develop apps on behalf of customers.
Documents Required for D-U-N-S®️ Registration in India
Before businesses begin the application process to obtain D-U-N-S®️ registration in India, they have to prepare a basic few documents:
Required Documents
- Company Incorporation Certificate
- PAN Card
- GST Certificate (if applicable)
- Proof of Business Address
- Details of Authorized Signatory
- Official Company Email Address
- Official Business Phone Number
All information must match exactly with those in the official business records.
Even the slightest discrepancies in spelling or address may hold up the approval.
Step-by-Step Process to Get D-U-N-S®️ Number for App Store & Play Console
Let’s understand the complete process step-by-step.
Step 1: Prepare Accurate Business Information
Ensure that before the application is made, all company information is accurate and synced.
You must verify:
- Legal business name
- Registered business address
- Company phone number
- Official email address
- Registration details
This information must match:
- Incorporation records
- GST documents
- PAN records
- Website/business profiles
Consistency is extremely important for successful verification.
Step 2: Submit the D-U-N-S®️ Application
Businesses can apply to obtain a D-U-N-S®️ Number through the following options:
- Official D&B registration process
- Consultation-based registration assistance
Businesses are required to provide the following information when submitting the application:
- Company details
- Registration documents
- Contact information
- Verification information
The application will initiate the verification process once it has been submitted to D&B for processing.
Step 3: Business Verification by Dun & Bradstreet
D&B uses various methods to verify the business:
- Government Registration Confirmation
- Phone Number Verification
- Email Address Confirmation
- Business Address Verification
- Document Verification
Businesses may receive email(s) and/or phone calls from D&B requesting confirmation of the details of their business record.
The application verification provides the means for the D-U-N-S®️ Number to be issued and is only provided after the D&B has successfully verified the business.
Step 4: Receive Your D-U-N-S®️ Number
Once verification is completed, the business will receive a unique 9 digit D-U-N-S®️ Number. The business will then be listed in the global D&B database.
This number can later be used for:
- Create an Apple Developer Organization Account
- Verify your business with Google Play Console
- Register as a vendor
- On-board with the enterprise organization
- Establish international partnerships
Step 5: Use the D-U-N-S®️ Number for Platform Verification
To use your D-U-N-S®️ Number, right after receiving your D-U-N-S®️ Number:
- Include D-U-N-S®️ Number to create your Apple Developer account
- Use the D-U-N-S®️ Number to verify your business with Google Play
- Make sure that your business details match exactly with the D-U-N-S®️ Number
Incorrect or mismatched details may still cause delays.
Free vs Fast-Track D-U-N-S®️ Registration in India
Indian businesses usually choose between two options.
1. Free Official Registration Process
Businesses may apply directly through the official process at no application cost.
Processing Time
Usually 15–30 business days
Advantages
- No registration fee
- Official process
Limitations
- Slower processing
- Verification delays possible
- No personalized support
- Errors may increase waiting time
This option works for businesses without urgent timelines.
2. Consultation-Based Fast-Track Support
Many app start-ups and companies would rather have professional consultation services in order to minimize delays and complete their operations as quickly as possible.
DNB India gives assistance to businesses via:
- Assist in preparing documentation
- Reviewing for application errors
- Help the applicant avoid common errors
- Assist the applicant through the Verify process
With proper documentation, businesses can complete the entire verification process at a much faster pace; numerous occasions occur when it takes less than 24 hours.
This can be an advantage to any business needing immediate assistance with their:
- Apple Developer Approval
- Google play console verification
- Launch of the app
- International client on-boarding.
Common Mistakes That Delay Verification
Many businesses are delayed in their verification process due to avoidable errors. Several examples of these errors are:
- Wrong Company Name – Using an Abbreviation or Unofficial Name For Business.
- Comparison of the Company Address. Use Different Formats On Different Evidence Writing.
- Personal Contact Information – Used Instead of the Official Business Email Address.
- Incorrect Business Type – An Incorrect Classification Of Your Business Is Submitted.
- Incomplete Documentation – Lack Of Documentation Will Delay The Verification Process.
Revising All Information Before Submitting Could Help Reduce Any Delays In The Process.
Benefits of Having a D-U-N-S®️ Number
A D-U-N-S®️ Number provides several long-term benefits.
- Global Business Credibility: International platforms can verify your business easily.
- Faster App Platform Verification: Useful for Apple and Google business approvals.
- Better Enterprise Trust: Helps establish professional credibility.
- Vendor Registration Support: Useful for onboarding with global companies.
- International Expansion: Supports business growth across international markets.
Is the D-U-N-S®️ Number Permanent?
Yes.
Once assigned:
- The D-U-N-S®️ Number is a type of permanent identification number that has no expiration date once it has been assigned.
- You do not need to renew your D-U-N-S®️ Number.
- You may use the same D-U-N-S®️ Number throughout the world.
You may use your D-U-N-S®️ Number on multiple platforms and in a number of verification systems.
Final Thoughts
If you are a start-up or app developer who is planning to create a professional brand presence globally, then it is important for you to obtain a D-U-N-S®️ Number.
If you are planning to release an app on Apple’s App Store or on Google’s Play Console, correctly verifying your business generally will keep you from having your application approval delayed, as well as increase your chances of being approved.
While there is a free D-U-N-S®️ registration process available, most will look toward paying for consultation type guidance to assist with overcoming challenges associated with their registration process, as well as to minimize errors and expedite the verification process.
DNB India is focused on helping businesses understand how the D-U-N-S®️ registration process should occur as well as how to complete the necessary documentation required for registration and the establishment of a D-U-N-S®️ Number.
A D-U-N-S®️ Number is mandatory for Apple Developer Organization Accounts and may also be required for Google Play Console business verification in some cases.
The standard free process may take around 15–30 business days, while consultation-based support can help businesses complete the process much faster.
- Yes, startups can apply for a D-U-N-S®️ Number if they have valid business registration documents.
Businesses generally need an incorporation certificate, PAN card, GST certificate (if applicable), address proof, and official business contact details.
Yes, the same D-U-N-S®️ Number can be used for Apple Developer Accounts, Google Play Console, vendor registration, and international business verification.