Aircall offers automatic recurring payments through credit card and direct debit. However, due to local banking and security regulations in India, specific rules apply to how payments can be processed. This article explains how 3D Secure (3DS) affects online payments, what payment methods are supported, and the documentation required for tax compliance.
Understanding 3D Secure (3DS)
3D Secure (3DS) is a security protocol designed to enhance online payment security and reduce fraud by adding an extra layer of authentication to card transactions.
How 3DS works
When a 3DS transaction is initiated, you are redirected to your issuing bank’s page to complete an additional verification step. This step may involve:
- Entering a one-time password (OTP), or
- Answering a security question.
Since Aircall processes recurring credit card payments automatically, customers are typically unable to verify the charge through an OTP or security question. As a result, these transactions are often declined by the issuing bank.
Why 3DS matters in India
With the growth of online transactions, fraud prevention is a top priority. Indian banking regulations require 3DS authentication for all online card transactions to improve security and protect consumers.
3DS 2.0, the updated version of the protocol, helps businesses comply with Strong Customer Authentication (SCA) requirements while maintaining a smoother payment experience.
Impact on businesses
| Area | Description |
|---|---|
| Compliance | Businesses processing card payments in India must adhere to 3DS regulations. |
| Customer experience | The additional security step may slightly extend the checkout process, but it ensures safer transactions. |
Accepted payment methods
To ensure a seamless payment experience and avoid failed transactions, Aircall does not accept Indian-issued credit cards or direct debit payments.
For most Indian customers, bank transfer is the only accepted payment method. This approach minimizes payment failures and guarantees uninterrupted access to Aircall services.
Important: Indian customers must pay via bank transfer to ensure successful and continuous billing.
Tax compliance requirements
India has complex tax regulations, but due to a Tax Treaty between India and France, Indian customers are not required to withhold tax from Aircall invoices.
However, the following four documents are required before making a payment:
- Bank account details – Provided by Aircall for payment instructions.
- Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) – Proof that Aircall SAS is registered in France.
- No Permanent Establishment (NO PE) Certificate – Confirms that Aircall SAS has no permanent establishment in India.
- Form 10-F – Required by the Indian Tax Authority to confirm Aircall's identity and country of residence.
Tip: You can request these documents from our Customer Success team.
FAQs
Your company has entities outside India. Can you use non-Indian billing details?
Yes. If you have entities in other countries, you can use those for billing, provided they meet standard verification checks.
Can you use a credit card from another country if you are based in India?
Yes. The restriction only applies to Indian-issued credit cards.
Can you withhold tax from the invoice?
No. The Tax Treaty between India and France, together with the required documentation, ensures that full payment of the invoice is required.
Can you sign up with Aircall Inc or Aircall Pty Ltd instead of Aircall SAS?
No. If your billing address is in India, your contract must be with Aircall SAS.
Can you pay in INR, EUR, AUD, or GBP?
No. All payments must be made in USD.
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