Overview/Understanding 3D Secure (3DS).
Aircall offers automatic recurring payments by Credit Card and Direct Debit. 3DS is a security protocol designed to enhance online payment security and reduce fraud by requiring an additional authentication step for 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 before the transaction can proceed.
- Since Aircall processes credit card transactions automatically, often, the customer is unable to verify the charge through an OTP or security question and so the transaction is declined.
Why 3DS Matters in India
- With the rise of e-commerce and online payments, fraud prevention is crucial.
- Indian regulations, similar to those in other regions, mandate the use of 3DS for online transactions to enhance security and protect consumers.
- 3DS 2.0, the updated version of the protocol, helps businesses comply with Strong Customer Authentication (SCA) requirements while improving the customer experience.
Impact on Businesses
- Compliance: Businesses processing credit card payments in India must comply with 3DS regulations.
- Customer Experience: While adding security, 3DS can slightly extend the checkout process.
Payment Methods Accepted
To ensure a smooth payment experience, we do not accept Indian credit cards, or Direct Debit. Bank Transfer is the only accepted payment method for most Indian customers. This approach minimizes payment failures and ensures uninterrupted service.
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 our invoices. However, they will need the following four documents before making a payment:
- Bank Account Details – To provide payment instructions.
- Tax Residency Certificate – Proof that Aircall SAS is based in France.
- NO PE Certificate – Confirmation that Aircall SAS does not have a Permanent Establishment in India.
- 10-F Form – A requirement from the Indian Tax Authority to confirm Aircall's identity and country of residence.
These documents can be requested from your Account Manager or by raising a ticket with our Billing Support team.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Your company has entities outside of 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 the standard verification checks.
2. Can you use a credit card from another country if you are based in India?
Yes. The issue only applies to Indian-issued credit cards.
3. Can you withhold tax from the invoice?
No. The Tax Treaty between India and France, along with the required documents, ensures that full invoice payment is required.
4. Can you sign up with Aircall Inc or Aircall Pty Ltd instead of Aircall SAS?
No. If your billing address is in India, the contract must be with Aircall SAS.
5. Can you pay in INR, EUR, AUD, or GBP?
No. Payments must be made in USD.