Business Set up

Business Registration

Private Limited Company

The process of registering a private limited company in India involves several steps and can take several weeks to complete. The following is a general overview of the process:

  • Obtain Director Identification Number (DIN) and Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) for all directors of the company.
  • Obtain a name for the company through the Ministry of Corporate Affairs' (MCA) name reservation portal.
  • Prepare and file the incorporation documents, including the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA), with the Registrar of Companies (ROC).
  • Obtain a PAN and TAN for the company from the Income Tax Department.
  • Obtain a certificate of incorporation from the ROC, which serves as proof of the legal existence of the company.
  • Apply for a GST registration and other licenses and permits required for the business.

It is important to note that the above steps are subject to change based on the current laws and regulations. It is advisable to consult with legal experts or a professional registration service provider to ensure compliance with all the legal requirements and to avoid any complications.

Q: What is a private limited company?

A: A private limited company is a type of business structure in India where the liability of the shareholders is limited to their shares. It is a separate legal entity from its shareholders and can enter into contracts, borrow money, and own property in its own name.

Q: What are the eligibility criteria for registering a private limited company in India?

To register a private limited company in India, the following criteria must be met:

  • There must be at least two shareholders and two directors.
  • The company must have a registered office in India.
  • The company must have a minimum paid-up capital of INR 100,000.
  • Q: What documents are required for private limited company registration?

    A: The following documents are required for private limited company registration:

    • Director Identification Number (DIN) and Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) of all directors.
    • Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA) of the company.
    • PAN and TAN of the company.
    • Proof of registered office address.
    • Consent to act as a director from all directors.
    • NOC from the owner of the registered office, if it is rented.
    Q: How long does it take to register a private limited company in India?

    A: The process of registering a private limited company in India can take anywhere from 4-8 weeks, depending on the complexity of the application and the number of documents submitted.

    Q: How much does it cost to register a private limited company in India?

    A: The cost of registering a private limited company in India varies depending on the services availed, registration fees, and government fees. It is advisable to consult with a professional registration service provider to get an estimate of the total cost.

    Q: Is it mandatory to register for GST after private limited company registration?

    A: Yes, it is mandatory for a private limited company to register for GST after incorporation.

    Q: Is it mandatory to have a company seal after private limited company registration?

    A: No, it is not mandatory to have a company seal after private limited company registration. However, it is advisable to have one as it serves as an official stamp of the company.

    Limited Liability Partnership

    Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) in India is a type of business structure that combines the best of both worlds: the flexibility of a partnership and the liability protection of a corporation. In an LLP, partners have a level of protection from personal liability for the debts and legal issues of the partnership, similar to the shareholders of a corporation. This means that the partners' personal assets are generally not at risk in the event of the LLP's debts or legal issues. In India, LLP registration process is governed by LLP Act, 2008 and governed by Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). To register an LLP in India, at least two partners are required and a registered office address. It is also important to file the appropriate forms and documents with the MCA and pay the required fees. LLP structure is best suited for Small and Medium Enterprises(SMEs) and professionals such as Chartered Accountants, Architects, Engineers, etc. It also have less compliance requirements as compared to a private limited company.

    Q: What is a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) in India?

    A: A Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) in India is a type of business structure that allows partners to have a level of protection from personal liability for the debts and legal issues of the partnership, while also allowing the flexibility of a partnership business model.

    Q: What are the requirements to register an LLP in India?

    A: To register an LLP in India, you will need at least two partners and a registered office address. You will also need to file the appropriate forms and documents with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) and pay the required fees.

    Q: What are the benefits of registering an LLP in India?

    A: Some benefits of registering an LLP in India include:

    • Limited liability protection for partners
    • Separate legal entity status
    • Ability to raise funds through multiple partners
    • Lesser compliance requirements as compared to a private limited company
    Q: Is it mandatory to have a minimum number of partners for an LLP?

    A: Yes, it is mandatory to have at least two partners to register an LLP in India.

    Q: How much does it cost to register an LLP in India?

    A: The cost of registering an LLP in India can vary depending on the state in which you are registering and the fees associated with the registration process. You can expect to pay fees for things such as name reservation, registration, and filing annual returns.

    Q: How long does it take to register an LLP in India?

    A: The registration process for an LLP in India can take several weeks, depending on the time required for the MCA to process your application and any issues that may arise during the process.

    Q: Can an LLP be converted into a Private Limited Company?

    A: Yes, an LLP can be converted into a Private Limited Company. It can be done through a process called conversion of LLP into a private limited company by following the rules and regulations laid by the MCA.

    • One Person Company
    • Sole Proprietorship
    • Partnership Firm

International Business Set-up

US Incorporation

  • Introduction: Incorporating a business in the United States provides a number of benefits, including limited liability protection for the owners, the ability to raise capital, and the ability to operate as a separate legal entity.
  • Advantages: The US offers a stable political and economic environment, a large consumer market, and a well-developed legal system. Additionally, the US has a number of tax treaties in place with other countries, which can provide benefits for international businesses.
  • Tax benefits: Incorporating in the US can provide tax benefits, such as the ability to take advantage of lower corporate tax rates and deductions for business expenses.
  • Investment required: The minimum investment required to incorporate in the US varies depending on the state in which the business is incorporated. In most states, the minimum required investment is around $1,000.
  • Procedure for a foreigner to become a director: A foreigner can become a director of a US company by registering as a foreign agent of the company and obtaining a work visa.
  • Total investment required: The total investment required to incorporate in the US will depend on the state in which the business is incorporated, as well as the specific needs of the business. On average, it can range from $1,000 to $5,000.

Singapore Incorporation

  • Introduction: Singapore is a popular destination for businesses looking to incorporate in Asia due to its stable political environment, pro-business policies, and low tax rates.
  • Advantages: Singapore offers a well-educated and skilled workforce, excellent infrastructure, and a strategic location for conducting business in the region. It also has a transparent and efficient legal system and a reputation for being one of the least corrupt countries in the world.
  • Tax benefits: Singapore has one of the lowest corporate tax rates in the world at 17%, and also offers various tax exemptions and incentives for foreign investors.
  • Investment required: The minimum investment required to incorporate in Singapore is S$1.
  • Procedure for a foreigner to become a director: A foreigner can become a director of a Singapore company by obtaining an Employment Pass or Entrepreneur Pass.
  • Total investment required: The total investment required to incorporate in Singapore will depend on the specific needs of the business, but on average it can range from S$1,500 to S$3,000.

UK incorporation

  • Introduction: Incorporating a business in the United Kingdom provides a number of benefits, including limited liability protection for the owners, the ability to raise capital, and the ability to operate as a separate legal entity.
  • Advantages: The UK offers a stable political and economic environment, a large consumer market, and a well-developed legal system. It also has a strong reputation for being a business-friendly country, and is a member of the European Union.
  • Tax benefits: Incorporating in the UK can provide tax benefits, such as the ability to take advantage of lower corporate tax rates and deductions for business expenses.
  • Investment required: The minimum investment required to incorporate in the UK is £1.
  • Procedure for a foreigner to become a director: A foreigner can become a director of a UK company by obtaining a work visa.
  • Total investment required: The total investment required to incorporate in the UK will depend on the specific needs of the business, but on average it can range from £1,000 to £5,000.

Netherlands Incorporation

Introduction The Netherlands is a popular destination for business incorporation due to its favorable tax system, skilled workforce, and excellent infrastructure. Incorporating a company in the Netherlands can provide access to the European market and a business-friendly environment.

Advantages:
  • Favorable tax system with low corporate tax rates
  • Access to the European market
  • Skilled workforce
  • Excellent infrastructure
  • Strong legal system
  • A business-friendly environment
  • Tax Benefits: The Netherlands has a territorial tax system, which means that only income generated within the country is subject to tax. Additionally, the Netherlands has a number of tax treaties with other countries which can provide relief from double taxation.
  • Investment Required: The minimum capital requirement for incorporating a Dutch company is €18,000. However, the actual amount required will depend on the nature of the business.
  • Procedure for a foreigner for becoming a director: A foreigner can become a director of a Dutch company without any restrictions.
  • Total Investment Required: The total investment required for incorporating a Dutch company will depend on various factors such as the nature of the business and the number of shareholders. However, it typically ranges from €10,000 to €20,000.

Hong Kong Registration

Introduction: Hong Kong is one of the world's most open and dynamic economies, making it a popular destination for business incorporation. It has a low tax system and a business-friendly environment, as well as a strong legal system and a skilled workforce.

Advantages:
  • Low tax system
  • Business-friendly environment
  • Strong legal system
  • Skilled workforce
  • Access to the Chinese market
  • Excellent infrastructure
  • Tax Benefits: Hong Kong has a territorial tax system, which means that only income generated within the country is subject to tax. The corporate tax rate in Hong Kong is one of the lowest in the world, at 16.5%.
  • Investment Required: There is no minimum capital requirement for incorporating a Hong Kong company.
  • Procedure for a foreigner for becoming a director: A foreigner can become a director of a Hong Kong company without any restrictions.
  • Total Investment Required: The total investment required for incorporating a Hong Kong company will depend on various factors such as the nature of the business and the number of shareholders. However, it typically ranges from HKD 10,000 to HKD 20,000.

Dubai Incorporation

Introduction: Dubai is a popular destination for business incorporation due to its strategic location, business-friendly environment, and excellent infrastructure. It is a hub for trade and commerce in the Middle East and offers easy access to the wider region.

Advantages:
  • Strategic location
  • Business-friendly environment
  • Excellent infrastructure
  • Access to the Middle East market
  • Low taxes
  • Tax Benefits: Dubai has a territorial tax system, which means that only income generated within the country is subject to tax. Dubai does not levy corporate income tax, personal income tax, or value-added tax.
  • Investment Required: The minimum capital requirement for incorporating a Dubai company is AED 300,000. However, the actual amount required will depend on the nature of the business.
  • Procedure for a foreigner for becoming a director: A foreigner can become a director of a Dubai company with a local sponsor.
  • Total Investment Required: The total investment required for incorporating a Dubai company will depend on various factors such as the nature of the business and the number of shareholders. However, it typically ranges from AED 100,000 to AED 500,000

Licences and Registrations

Digital Signature Certificates in India

Digital Signature Certificates (DSC) are legally valid and secure digital certificates used for various e-filing and e-tendering services. They are used to sign and encrypt electronic documents and transactions, making them legally binding and tamper-proof. Benefits of DSC include secure and efficient transactions, legal validity, and reduced paperwork. The expenses for DSC include the cost of the certificate itself, as well as the cost of the token (if required). The government fee for DSC varies depending on the type of certificate and the issuing authority. The procedure for obtaining a DSC includes filling out an online application, submitting the required documents, and completing the verification process.

MSME Registration in India

MSME (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) registration is a process of registering a business enterprise as an MSME with the government. Benefits of MSME registration include access to credit facilities, subsidies, and other government schemes. Expenses for MSME registration include the cost of the application fee and legal fees. The government fee for MSME registration varies depending on the type of enterprise and the issuing authority. The procedure for MSME registration includes filling out an online application, submitting the required documents, and completing the verification process.

Startup India Registration in India:

Startup India is a government initiative to promote and support the growth of new businesses and startups. Benefits of Startup India registration include access to funding, tax exemptions, and mentorship opportunities. Expenses for Startup India registration include the cost of the application fee and legal fees. The government fee for Startup India registration varies depending on the type of enterprise and the issuing authority. The procedure for Startup India registration includes filling out an online application, submitting the required documents, and completing the verification process.

FSSAI Registration in India

FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) registration is a process of registering a food business with the government. Benefits of FSSAI registration include legal compliance, increased credibility and access to government schemes. Expenses for FSSAI registration include the cost of the application fee and legal fees. The government fee for FSSAI registration varies depending on the type of enterprise and the issuing authority. The procedure for FSSAI registration includes filling out an online application, submitting the required documents, and completing the verification process.

IEC (Import/Export Code) Registration in India:

IEC (Import/Export Code) registration is a process of registering a business engaged in the import or export of goods with the government. Benefits of IEC registration include legal compliance, increased credibility and access to government schemes. Expenses for IEC registration include the cost of the application fee and legal fees. The government fee for IEC registration varies depending on the type of enterprise and the issuing authority. The procedure for IEC registration includes filling out an online application, submitting the required documents, and completing the verification process.

Shops and Establishments Licence Registration in India

Shops and Establishments Licence registration is a process of registering a business enterprise with the government. Benefits of Shops and Establishments Licence registration include legal compliance and access to government schemes. Expenses for Shops and Establishments Licence registration include the cost of the application fee and legal fees. The government fee for Shops and Establishments Licence registration varies depending on the type of enterprise and the issuing authority. The procedure for Shops and Establishments Licence registration includes filling out an online application, submitting the required documents, and completing the verification process

Shops and Establishments Licence Registration in India:

A shops and establishments licence is required for businesses such as retail shops, restaurants, and other commercial establishments to operate legally in India.

  • Benefits: Legal compliance and protection against inspection and penalties.
  • Expenses: The cost of the licence varies depending on the state and type of establishment.
  • Documents required: PAN card, GST registration certificate, address proof, and other relevant documents as per state's requirement.
  • Government fee: The fee for the licence varies depending on the state and type of establishment.
  • Procedure: The process of obtaining a shops and establishments licence typically involves filling out an application form, submitting the required documents, and paying the relevant fee. The application is then processed by the relevant state government department.

Udyog Aadhaar Registration in India:

Udyog Aadhaar is a unique identification number issued to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in India by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME).

  • Benefits: Udyog Aadhaar registration can help MSMEs to avail various benefits such as easy access to credit, subsidies and benefits under government schemes.
  • Expenses: The registration is free of cost.
  • Documents required: PAN card, GST registration certificate, address proof, and other relevant documents as per the requirement of the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME).
  • Government fee: None
  • Procedure: To register, the applicant need to fill an online registration form, submit the required documents and wait for the verification. Once the registration is approved, the applicant will receive the Udyog Aadhaar number.

RERA Registration in India:

RERA (Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act) is a central law that governs the real estate sector in India. It makes it mandatory for developers to register their projects with the regulatory authority.

  • Benefits: RERA registration ensures that the developer complies with the legal norms and provides transparency and accountability to buyers.
  • Expenses: The cost of registration varies depending on the state and type of project.
  • Documents required: PAN card, GST registration certificate, address proof, and other relevant documents as per the requirement of the state's RERA authority.
  • Government fee: The fee for registration varies depending on the state and type of project.
  • Procedure: To register, the developer needs to fill an online registration form, submit the required documents, and pay the relevant fee. The application is then processed by the relevant state RERA authority.

Digital Signature Certificates in India:

  • Documents required: Identity proof, address proof, and PAN Card
  • Government fee: Depending on the type of DSC and validity, the fee ranges from around Rs. 1000 to Rs. 8000 MSME Registration in India:
  • Documents required: PAN Card, GST registration, bank statement/cancelled cheque, and proof of business address
  • Government fee: No fee is charged for MSME registration

Startup India Registration in India

  • Documents required: PAN Card, GST registration, bank statement/cancelled cheque, and proof of business address, Incorporation/Registration certificate, MOA & AOA, and self-declaration form
  • Government fee: No fee is charged for Startup India registration

FSSAI Registration in India

  • Documents required: PAN Card, GST registration, and proof of business address
  • Government fee: Depending on the type of food business and turnover, the fee ranges from around Rs. 100 to Rs. 7500

IEC (Import/Export Code) Registration in India:

  • Documents required: PAN Card, GST registration, and proof of business address
  • Government fee: Rs. 250

Shops and Establishments Licence Registration in India:

  • Documents required: PAN Card, GST registration, and proof of business address
  • Government fee: Depending on the state, the fee ranges from around Rs. 500 to Rs. 5000

Udyog Aadhaar Registration in India:

  • Documents required: PAN Card, GST registration, and proof of business address
  • Government fee: No fee is charged for Udyog Aadhaar registration

RERA Registration in India:

  • Documents required: PAN Card, GST registration, and proof of business address, and all the documents related to the project.
  • Government fee: Depending on the state, the fee ranges from around Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 50,000