The SAMRIDH Scheme

May 6, 2024
Private Limited Company vs. Limited Liability Partnerships

SAMRIDH or Startup Accelerators of MeitY for Product Innovation, Development, and Growth, launched by the Ministry of Electronics and IT, aims to provide funding and acceleration to startups, predominantly software startups.

Description Who is it for? Benefits
To provide funding support to the tech and software startups with proof of concept & innovations. For Tech & Software startups Under this scheme, startups can get funding of up to Rs. 40 lakhs based on current valuation and growth stage through selected accelerators.

The investment is extensively for brilliant solutions and proof of concepts through selected accelerators. The selected accelerators are responsible for providing a customized acceleration program for 300 selected startups.

Startup Accelerators of MeitY for Product Innovation, Development, and Growth (SAMRIDH)

Table of Contents

Features of SAMRIDH Scheme

Features of SAMRIDH Scheme
  • The SAMRIDH scheme provides your startup which already has brilliant solutions and proof of concept for their product, better facilities to enhance the product using innovative technologies for the market with a solid business plan.
  • The scheme provides a platform to enhance your products and secure investment for scaling your business.
  • Once your startup gains traction, there is a gap in accessing the growth stage funding to scale up the operations,and the scheme is filling up this gap for startups.
  • The scheme supports existing and upcoming Accelerators to select and accelerate potential IT-based startups to scale to solve India's problems and create positive social impact.

Eligibility for SAMRIDH Scheme

For Startups

  • Must be recognized by DPIIT.
  • Must be in the Early-growth stage.
  • The product of the startup must be software-based.

For Accelerators

  • Must have operations in India.
  • Must have been in the business of incubation for more than three years and supported more than 50 startups.
  • Must have the required infrastructure and targeted acceleration programs.

Application procedure for Startups

The application procedure primarily comprises the following steps:

  • Visit https://meitystartuphub.in.
  • On the homepage, click on “Register” under the Startup section.
  • The registration page will appear. Fill in all the requisite details and click on the “Submit” button.
  • Following registration, one can "log in" to the page for further access by filling in the username and password.

Benefits of SAMRIDH

  • This scheme provides a platform for product development and business scaling in terms of investment.
  • To provide customer connect, investor connect, and international connect services.
  • Up to Rs 40 lakh will be provided to the startups according to their current valuation and growth stage through accelerators..
  • Customized acceleration programs for startups and provided product and capacity enhancement services.

Post-Selection Process for SAMRIDH Scheme

The ​​MeitY SAMRIDH Scheme will be implemented through the MeitY Startup Hub (MSH). The selected Accelerator will be responsible for developing personalized acceleration programmes, and the budget for each startup is Rs. 2 lakh.

The services include- Co-learning, networking, expert diagnosis, and negotiation of investment funding from Angel Investors. A maximum of 10 businesses and a minimum of 5 startups working in the sphere of software products can be helped by a shortlisted accelerator.

MSH will take equity in startups for the government's contribution via Promissory/SAFE Note, the same as Accelerator, which will be utilized to sustain the program.The startup's exit may be executed by MSH or its appointed entity holding the company's equity, subject to approval from SMC. Biannual assessments of startups within the portfolio will be conducted, and the resulting reports will inform decisions regarding exiting from the startup.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Register your Limited Liability Partnership in just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

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Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


Limited Liability Partnership
(LLP)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Professional services 
  • Firms seeking any capital contribution from Partners
  • Firms sharing resources with limited liability 

One Person Company
(OPC)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Freelancers, Small-scale businesses
  • Businesses looking for minimal compliance
  • Businesses looking for single-ownership

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


One Person Company
(OPC)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Freelancers, Small-scale businesses
  • Businesses looking for minimal compliance
  • Businesses looking for single-ownership

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


Limited Liability Partnership
(LLP)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Professional services 
  • Firms seeking any capital contribution from Partners
  • Firms sharing resources with limited liability 

Frequently Asked Questions

What documents are required to apply for the SAMRIDH Scheme?

The documentation requirements may vary depending on the lending institution, but generally, applicants need to provide identity proof, address proof, income proof, and business-related documents.

What are the key benefits of the SAMRIDH Scheme?

The key benefits of the SAMRIDH Scheme include financial support, access to investment opportunities, and promotion of entrepreneurship with the help of the accelerators.

Which accelerators are presently part of the Samridh Scheme?

Here is a list of accelerators participating in the Samridh Scheme: Link.

Related Posts

Annual Compliance of a Company in India – Requirements, Rules & Checklist [2025 Updated]

Annual Compliance of a Company in India – Requirements, Rules & Checklist [2025 Updated]

Annual compliance refers to the mandatory legal and regulatory requirements a company must fulfil every year after its incorporation. 

Governed primarily under the Companies Act, 2013, these compliances are designed to ensure that the company operates within the legal framework, maintains accurate records, and upholds transparency with its stakeholders, including shareholders, investors, and government authorities.

In this blog, we will cover the applicability, benefits, and detailed list of annual compliance requirements for companies in India, along with the consequences of non-compliance, so you have a clear roadmap to keep your business legally healthy and compliant.

Table of Contents

Applicability of Annual Compliance

Annual compliance is mandatory for all types of companies registered in India, including:

Benefits of Annual Compliance

  • Avoids legal penalties and ensures smooth business operations
  • Maintains good standing with regulatory authorities
  • Builds trust with investors, clients, and stakeholders
  • Improves creditworthiness for bank loans and funding
  • Facilitates a smooth exit or sale of the business in the future

Registrar Related Compliance

Financial Statements

Every company must prepare three core financial statements:

  • Income Statement: Shows the company’s profitability over a financial year.
  • Balance Sheet: Presents the company’s assets, liabilities, and equity.
  • Cash Flow Statement: Details the inflow and outflow of cash.

Financial statements must be prepared within 6 months from the end of the financial year and filed with the ROC via Form AOC-4. All companies must audit their accounts with a chartered accountant. Failure to file financial statements can result in penalties of ₹100 per day of delay.

Annual General Meeting (AGM)

An AGM is a yearly meeting applicable under Section 96 of the Companies Act, 2013,  of shareholders to discuss and approve the company’s financial statements, appoint auditors, and make key business decisions.

  • First AGM: Within 9 months of the end of the first financial year
  • Subsequent AGMs: Within 6 months from the end of the financial year (but not later than 15 months from the last AGM)

Auditor’s Appointment

Under the Companies Act, 2013, every company in India must appoint an auditor within a specific timeline. The first auditor is appointed shortly after incorporation, and future appointments happen during the Annual General Meeting (AGM). 

  • First Auditor: Appointed by the Board of Directors within 30 days of incorporation
  • Subsequent Auditors: Appointed in AGM for a term of 5 years

File Form ADT-1 with ROC within 15 days of the appointment. If no auditor is appointed, the ROC can step in, and penalties under Section 450 apply- ₹25,000 on the company and ₹5,000 on each officer in default.

Annual Returns

Under the Companies Act, 2013, every company registered in India must file certain forms with the Registrar of Companies (RoC) each year, regardless of whether it’s making a profit, breaking even, or inactive.

The key filings include:

  • Form MGT-7: Annual return with details of shareholders, directors, and company structure.
  • Form AOC-4: Filing of audited financial statements.
  • Form ADT-1: Auditor appointment details.

These filings must be submitted within the prescribed timelines, failing which companies can face hefty penalties, ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹5 lakhs, and in some cases, even imprisonment for responsible officers. 

DIR-3 KYC

Every director must file DIR-3 KYC annually with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). This filing requires basic information such as your name, address, PAN, Aadhaar, email ID, mobile number, and OTP verification. There are two types of filings:

  • DIR-3 KYC Form: For first-time filers or directors who need to update any details.
  • DIR-3 KYC Web: For directors with no changes in their information from the previous year.

The due date is September 30th every year. Missing this deadline will automatically deactivate your Director Identification Number (DIN) and result in a late filing fee of ₹5,000 to reactivate it.

Income Tax Return (ITR)

In India, ITR filing is mandatory for companies, regardless of turnover or income status. An ITR includes details of your company’s income, expenses, tax liability, deductions claimed, and taxes paid. 

Even if your company is new or inactive, filing a nil return is still compulsory. Non-compliance can attract fines under Section 234F of the Income Tax Act and impact your company’s credibility with banks, investors, and regulators. It is generally filed in ITR-6 format for companies (except Section 8 companies claiming exemption)

Other Non-RoC Compliances

Apart from ROC-related filings, companies must also meet financial, tax, and labour law compliances, including:

  • Tax-related: GST returns, TDS returns, TCS, Advance Tax, Professional Tax
  • Labour-related: ESIC, PF returns, Shops & Establishment filings
  • Other sector-specific filings, depending on industry regulations

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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Register your Private Limited Company in just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

Register your business
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Register your One Person Company in just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

Register your business
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Register your Business starting at just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

Register your business
rize image

Register your Limited Liability Partnership in just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

Register your business

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


Limited Liability Partnership
(LLP)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Professional services 
  • Firms seeking any capital contribution from Partners
  • Firms sharing resources with limited liability 

One Person Company
(OPC)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Freelancers, Small-scale businesses
  • Businesses looking for minimal compliance
  • Businesses looking for single-ownership

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


One Person Company
(OPC)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Freelancers, Small-scale businesses
  • Businesses looking for minimal compliance
  • Businesses looking for single-ownership

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


Limited Liability Partnership
(LLP)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Professional services 
  • Firms seeking any capital contribution from Partners
  • Firms sharing resources with limited liability 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key compliances for a Private Limited Company?

  • Filing Annual Return in Form MGT-7
  • Filing Financial Statements in Form AOC-4
  • Holding Annual General Meeting (AGM) (if applicable)
  • Appointment/ reappointment of auditor and filing ADT-1
  • Filing Income Tax Return (ITR)
  • Filing DIR-3 KYC for all directors
  • Maintaining statutory registers and records
  • Complying with GST, TDS, and other tax obligations if applicable

What is the due date for filing financial statements with the ROC?

For most companies, the AOC-4 form (financial statements) must be filed within 30 days from the date of the AGM.

What is the penalty for not holding an Annual General Meeting (AGM) on time?

  • Company penalty: ₹25,000
  • Penalty on every defaulting officer (including directors): ₹5,000 each (As per Section 99 of the Companies Act, 2013)

What forms need to be filed annually with the ROC?

  • MGT-7: Annual Return
  • AOC-4: Filing of audited financial statements
  • ADT-1: Auditor appointment
  • DIR-3 KYC: Director KYC compliance

Why is filing DIR-3 KYC important for directors?

Filing DIR-3 KYC is crucial for directors as it keeps their DIN active, ensures MCA records are accurate, avoids DIN deactivation and a ₹5,000 late fee, and preserves their legal eligibility to serve on company boards.

Akash Goel

Akash Goel is an experienced Company Secretary specializing in startup compliance and advisory across India. He has worked with numerous early and growth-stage startups, supporting them through critical funding rounds involving top VCs like Matrix Partners, India Quotient, Shunwei, KStart, VH Capital, SAIF Partners, and Pravega Ventures.

His expertise spans Secretarial compliance, IPR, FEMA, valuation, and due diligence, helping founders understand how startups operate and the complexities of legal regulations.

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How to Register a Company for Consulting Services in India?

How to Register a Company for Consulting Services in India?

The consulting industry in India is booming for good reasons. As markets become more competitive and technology reshapes how we do business, companies are looking for specialists who can provide fresh perspectives, solve complex challenges, and help them grow faster. From early-stage startups trying to find product–market fit to large corporations aiming to improve efficiency, the demand for expert advice is higher than ever.

Consulting can be a highly rewarding career path if you have deep knowledge in a field, whether it’s finance, management, marketing, IT, or legal.

In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of consulting you can offer and provide a step-by-step process for registering your consulting company in India so you can focus on delivering value while your business stands on solid legal ground.

Table of Contents

Types of Consulting

Consulting services span multiple domains, each catering to a unique set of client needs. Here are some popular types of consulting and what they typically involve:

Financial Consulting

Financial consultants help individuals and organisations manage money more effectively. Services may include investment planning, tax optimisation, budgeting, cash flow management, and economic risk assessment. Clients often include SMEs, startups, large corporations, and even high-net-worth individuals.

Management Consulting

Management consultants focus on improving business performance and solving operational challenges. They analyse existing processes, identify inefficiencies, and recommend strategies to improve productivity and profitability. Clients are usually companies undergoing restructuring, scaling, or entering new markets.

Marketing Consulting

Marketing consultants help businesses create and execute strategies to attract, engage, and retain customers. Services include brand positioning, campaign planning, market research, and digital marketing strategy. Their clients range from small businesses to large enterprises looking to strengthen their market presence.

IT Consulting

IT consultants advise on technology adoption, infrastructure setup, software implementation, and cybersecurity. They work with businesses looking to upgrade systems, integrate digital tools, or protect against cyber threats. Common clients include startups, tech companies, and corporations undergoing digital transformation.

Legal Consulting

Legal consultants provide guidance on compliance, contracts, dispute resolution, and regulatory matters. They help businesses avoid legal risks and ensure operations are aligned with applicable laws. Their clients often include startups, corporates, NGOs, and individuals requiring legal clarity.

Legal Steps to Register Your Consulting Business

Starting a consulting business in India requires following specific legal procedures under the Companies Act, 2013. While you can set up as a sole proprietorship, registering as a Private Limited Company or LLP offers more credibility and growth opportunities.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the company registration process:

Step 1: Get in Touch with an Expert

Engage a Chartered Accountant (CA), Company Secretary (CS), or a reliable online platform that specialises in company registration. They can guide you through choosing the right business structure, preparing documents, and ensuring compliance.

Step 2: Share the Information and Required Documents

Provide details such as your proposed company name, nature of business, registered office address, and personal KYC documents for all directors or partners. This typically includes PAN, Aadhaar, address proof, passport-sized photos, and, in some cases, bank statements.

Step 3: Obtaining the DSC of Directors

A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is mandatory for directors to sign and submit forms electronically on the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) portal. Each director must have their own DSC issued by a government-approved agency.

Step 4: Applying for Company Name Reservation

File an application through the MCA’s RUN (Reserve Unique Name) service or as part of the SPICe+ form. Choose a name that reflects your consulting services, complies with MCA naming guidelines, and isn’t already in use.

Step 5: Creation of Mandatory Documents (MoA and AoA)

Draft the Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA).

  • The MoA defines your company’s objectives, including consulting services as your main activity.
  • The AoA outlines your company’s internal rules and governance structure.

Step 6: Submitting the Application for Company Registration

Complete the incorporation process by filing the SPICe+ form along with all required documents on the MCA portal. Once approved, you’ll receive your Certificate of Incorporation (COI), along with PAN and TAN. You can then proceed to open a current bank account and commence operations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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Register your business
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Register your Private Limited Company in just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

Register your business
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Register your One Person Company in just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

Register your business
rize image

Register your Business starting at just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

Register your business
rize image

Register your Limited Liability Partnership in just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

Register your business

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


Limited Liability Partnership
(LLP)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Professional services 
  • Firms seeking any capital contribution from Partners
  • Firms sharing resources with limited liability 

One Person Company
(OPC)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Freelancers, Small-scale businesses
  • Businesses looking for minimal compliance
  • Businesses looking for single-ownership

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


One Person Company
(OPC)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Freelancers, Small-scale businesses
  • Businesses looking for minimal compliance
  • Businesses looking for single-ownership

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


Limited Liability Partnership
(LLP)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Professional services 
  • Firms seeking any capital contribution from Partners
  • Firms sharing resources with limited liability 

Frequently Asked Questions

How to register a consulting company in India?

You can register a consulting company in India as a Private Limited Company, Limited Liability Partnership (LLP), or Partnership, depending on your goals.

Steps to register:

  1. Choose your business structure (Pvt Ltd, LLP, or Partnership)
  2. Get Digital Signature Certificates (DSCs) for all directors/partners
  3. Reserve a unique company name via the MCA portal (SPICe+ form)
  4. Draft the Memorandum of Association (MoA) & Articles of Association (AoA)
  5. File the incorporation form (SPICe+) with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs
  6. Obtain Certificate of Incorporation (COI) along with PAN and TAN
  7. Open a current bank account in the company’s name and start operations

If you prefer a quicker process without heavy compliance, LLP or Proprietorship can work, but for credibility and scalability, Private Limited Company is often the best choice.

How to start a job consultancy business in India?

A job consultancy connects job seekers with employers, helping companies find the right talent.

Steps to start:

  1. Decide your niche – IT hiring, executive search, entry-level recruitment, etc.
  2. Register your business – You can start as a Proprietorship, LLP, or Private Limited Company
  3. Apply for GST registration (mandatory if turnover exceeds ₹40 lakh or if operating interstate)
  4. Get a current account in your business name
    Sign agreements with companies for recruitment services
  5. Build a talent pool using job portals, LinkedIn, and direct applications

Ensure compliance with labour laws and data protection rules

How to register a service-based company in India?

A service-based company provides services instead of physical products — for example, consulting, marketing, IT services, event management, etc.

Steps to register:

  1. Select your business structure – Partnership, LLP, or Private Limited Company
  2. Obtain DSC
  3. Reserve the company name via MCA
  4. Draft MoA & AoA (for Pvt Ltd) or LLP Agreement (for LLP)
  5. File incorporation form with MCA
  6. Receive Certificate of Incorporation

Get PAN, TAN, and GST registration (if applicable)

Sarthak Goyal

Sarthak Goyal is a Chartered Accountant with 10+ years of experience in business process consulting, internal audits, risk management, and Virtual CFO services. He cleared his CA at 21, began his career in a PSU, and went on to establish a successful ₹8 Cr+ e-commerce venture.

He has since advised ₹200–1000 Cr+ companies on streamlining operations, setting up audit frameworks, and financial monitoring. A community builder for finance professionals and an amateur writer, Sarthak blends deep finance expertise with an entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for continuous learning.

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What is a Foreign Company in India? Definition, Types & Compliance

What is a Foreign Company in India? Definition, Types & Compliance

A Foreign Company in India is defined under Section 2(42) of the Companies Act, 2013, as any company or body corporate incorporated outside India which has a place of business in India either by itself or through an agent, physically or electronically and conducts any business activity in India.

Foreign companies looking to tap into India's expanding economy can set up their operations in several forms, such as:

  • Wholly Owned Subsidiaries
  • Branch Offices
  • Liaison Offices
  • Project Offices

India's vast consumer base, growing digital ecosystem, skilled workforce, and liberal Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) policies make it an attractive destination for global companies.

Table of Contents

Eligibility Criteria for Foreign Company Registration in India

To register a foreign company in India, the following eligibility conditions must be fulfilled:

  • FDI Policy Compliance: The foreign investor must follow FDI norms, either under the Automatic Route (no prior approval required) or the Government Route (approval from concerned ministries needed).
  • Indian Resident Director: A subsidiary company must have at least one director who is a resident in India.
  • Registered Office in India: The company must maintain a registered office in India, and proof of valid address must be submitted during incorporation.
  • Business Activity Restrictions: Foreign companies are not permitted to engage in retail trading or real estate activities.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Business activities must align with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) regulations.

Types of Business Entities for Foreign Companies in India

Foreign companies can enter India through multiple legal structures based on their business goals and compliance appetite:

  1. Wholly Owned Subsidiary (WOS)
    • A private limited company incorporated in India with 100% foreign shareholding.
    • Can engage in commercial and revenue-generating activities under FDI-compliant sectors.
  2. Liaison Office
    • A non-commercial presence used for market research, networking, and representing the parent company.
    • Requires RBI approval and cannot earn income in India.
  3. Branch Office
    • Set up to conduct business and earn revenue in India.
    • Can export/import goods, offer consultancy services, or carry out R&D.
    • RBI approval required.
  4. Project Office
    • Temporary setup for executing specific projects awarded by Indian entities or government bodies.
    • Generally permitted if the project is funded by an inward remittance or a bilateral/multilateral agency.
  5. Joint Venture (JV)
    • A foreign company can form a joint venture with an Indian entity to share equity, control, and profits.

Step-by-Step Registration Process for a Foreign Company in India

Setting up a foreign company in India involves regulatory approvals, documentation, and legal filings. Here's a detailed breakdown of the process:

Step 1: Choose the Right Business Structure

Foreign entities must select the most suitable mode of entry based on their intended operations:

  • Wholly Owned Subsidiary (WOS)
  • Branch Office
  • Liaison Office
  • Project Office
  • Joint Venture (JV)

Each structure has different regulatory requirements under RBI, FEMA, and MCA.

Step 2: Obtain a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)

A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is needed for all directors/authorized representatives to sign e-forms on the MCA portal. Apply for a DSC from a certified authority in India.

Step 3: Name Reservation & Company Incorporation via SPICe+ (For Subsidiary/JV)

File the SPICe+ Part A form for name reservation on the MCA portal. After name approval, complete SPICe+ Part B, including:

  • eMOA (Memorandum of Association)
  • eAOA (Articles of Association)
  • AGILE-Pro (for GST, EPFO, ESIC, and bank account setup)
  • INC-9 (declaration by subscribers/directors)

Upload all documents with digitally signed forms.

Step 4: RBI Approval for Liaison, Branch, and Project Offices

Foreign companies opting for Liaison, Branch, or Project Offices must apply via Form FNC on the RBI FIRMS portal. Approval is granted under RBI’s Authorized Dealer Category-I Banks (designated AD Bank).

Step 5: Open a Bank Account

Open a current account in an Indian bank in the name of the newly incorporated entity. It is required for:

  • Receiving foreign capital infusion
  • Making statutory payments
  • Conducting business transactions

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FDI Policy & Compliance for Foreign Companies

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in India is governed by the FEMA Act, RBI circulars, and sectoral guidelines. Here’s what foreign companies must know:

  • FDI Routes:
    • Automatic Route: No prior government approval needed.
    • Government Route: Approval required from specific ministries, based on the sector.
  • Sectoral Caps: Certain sectors have FDI limits (e.g., defense, insurance, telecom) and special conditions.
  • Compliance & Reporting:
    • File FC-GPR (Foreign Currency-Gross Provisional Return) after equity shares are allotted.
    • Annual Return on Foreign Liabilities and Assets (FLA) must be filed with RBI.
    • Form FC-TRS for transfer of shares between resident and non-resident.

Documents Required for Foreign Company Registration

To complete the registration process, the following documents are typically required:

For Directors:

  • Valid Passport (mandatory for foreign nationals)
  • Government-issued ID proof (Aadhar, Voter ID)
  • Address proof (utility bill, bank statement)

For Registered Indian Office:

  • Rental Agreement or Lease Deed
  • NOC from owner
  • Recent utility bill

For RBI/FEMA Compliance:

  • FDI declaration
  • FC-GPR or Form FNC for RBI registration

Post-Registration Compliance for Foreign Companies in India

Once registered, a foreign company must ensure continuous legal and financial compliance. Key post-incorporation obligations include:

  • Annual Filings with MCA:
    • File Form FC-3 with business activity details and financials.
    • Submit AOC-4 for financial statements.
  • Tax Compliance:
    • File ITR, pay TDS, and maintain GST records if applicable.
  • FEMA/RBI Reporting:
    • Submit Annual Activity Certificate through an authorized dealer bank.
    • Continue timely reporting of share allotments and inward remittances.

Frequently Asked Questions

rize image

Register your Business at just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

Register your business
rize image

Register your Private Limited Company in just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

Register your business
rize image

Register your One Person Company in just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

Register your business
rize image

Register your Business starting at just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

Register your business
rize image

Register your Limited Liability Partnership in just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

Register your business

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


Limited Liability Partnership
(LLP)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Professional services 
  • Firms seeking any capital contribution from Partners
  • Firms sharing resources with limited liability 

One Person Company
(OPC)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Freelancers, Small-scale businesses
  • Businesses looking for minimal compliance
  • Businesses looking for single-ownership

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
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  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a subsidiary and a branch office in India?

To register a construction company in India, follow these steps:

  • Subsidiary: A separate legal entity incorporated in India under the Companies Act, 2013. It can be wholly or partly owned by the foreign parent. It enjoys full operational autonomy and is taxed like any Indian company.
  • Branch Office: Not a separate legal entity. It's an extension of the foreign parent company and is restricted to specific activities approved by the RBI (like export/import, consultancy, R&D). It cannot carry out manufacturing or retail trading.

Can a foreign company operate in India without registration?

No, foreign companies cannot legally conduct business in India without registration. They must register with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) and obtain approvals (such as RBI clearance for certain types of offices). Unregistered operations may attract penalties and legal consequences.

How long does it take to register a foreign company in India?

The timeline varies based on the business structure and regulatory approvals:

  • Subsidiary or Joint Venture: Around 15–25 working days, assuming all documents are in order.
  • Branch/Liaison/Project Office: May take 4–6 weeks, as RBI/AD Bank approval is required before MCA registration.

What are the tax implications for foreign companies in India?

  • Subsidiaries: Taxed as Indian domestic companies at standard corporate tax rates (15% to 30% depending on turnover and type).
  • Branch/Project/Liaison Offices: Taxed at 35% (plus surcharge and cess) for AY 2025-26 on profits attributable to Indian operations. Liaison offices are non-income generating, so they are typically not taxed.

Is RBI approval mandatory for all foreign company registrations?

No. RBI approval is only mandatory for:

  • Branch Offices
  • Liaison Offices
  • Project Offices

For subsidiaries and joint ventures, RBI approval is not required if the investment is under the automatic route of the FDI policy.

Can foreign nationals be directors in an Indian subsidiary?

Yes, foreign nationals can be directors in an Indian subsidiary. However, at least one director must be a resident of India (i.e., lived in India for a total of 182 days or more in the previous calendar year) as per Section 149(3) of the Companies Act, 2013.

What are the compliance requirements for foreign companies under FEMA?

Foreign companies must adhere to FEMA (Foreign Exchange Management Act) regulations, including:

  • Filing of FC-GPR (for share allotment) and FC-TRS (for transfer of shares).
  • Annual Return on Foreign Liabilities and Assets (FLA) to RBI.
  • Annual Activity Certificate (AAC) for Branch/Liaison/Project offices.
  • Reporting inward remittances and maintaining proper documentation for foreign investments.

Akash Goel

Akash Goel is an experienced Company Secretary specializing in startup compliance and advisory across India. He has worked with numerous early and growth-stage startups, supporting them through critical funding rounds involving top VCs like Matrix Partners, India Quotient, Shunwei, KStart, VH Capital, SAIF Partners, and Pravega Ventures.

His expertise spans Secretarial compliance, IPR, FEMA, valuation, and due diligence, helping founders understand how startups operate and the complexities of legal regulations.

Read more

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shopeg.in
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Smooth onboarding, seamless incorporation and a wonderful community. Thanks to the #razorpayrize team! #rizeincorporation
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Basanth Verma
shopeg.in
Exciting news! Incorporation of our company, FoxSell, with Razorpay Rize was extremely smooth and straightforward. We highly recommend them. Thank you Razorpay Rize for making it easy to set up our business in India.
@foxsellapp
#razorpayrize #rizeincorporation
Dhaval Trivedi
Prakhar Shrivastava
foxsell.app
We would recommend Razorpay Rize incorporation services to any founder without a second doubt. The process was beyond efficient and show's razorpay founder's commitment and vision to truly help entrepreneur's and early stage startups to get them incorporated with ease. If you wanna get incorporated, pick them. Thanks for the help Razorpay.

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Dhaval Trivedi
TBS Magazine
Hey, Guys!
We just got incorporated yesterday.
Thanks to Rize team for all the Support.
It was a wonderful experience.
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Dhaval Trivedi
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https://zillout.com/