Requirements to obtain the Shop and Establishment Act Registration

Why Start a Business in India as a Foreigner?

India offers a compelling value proposition for global business owners:

• Fast-growing economy: India is among the top emerging markets with consistent GDP growth.
  
  
• Large consumer base: With over 1.4 billion people and a rising middle class, the domestic market is vast and varied.
  
  
• Startup-friendly policies: Programs like Startup India, Make in India, and Digital India support new ventures with tax benefits, funding access, and ease of registration.
  
  
• Improved ease of doing business: Recent reforms have simplified company incorporation, tax filing, and compliance.
  
  
• Strategic location: India’s proximity to other Asian markets makes it a strong base for regional operations.
  
  
• Skilled talent: A large English-speaking, tech-savvy workforce makes it easier to scale.
  
  
• Cost-effective operations: Lower labour and operational costs compared to many developed markets.

Additionally, FDI relaxations across sectors like tech, manufacturing, and services have made India a preferred destination for companies like Amazon, IKEA, and Walmart.

Popular Business Structures for Foreigners in India

Foreign nationals looking to start a business in India can choose from a few key structures:

• Private Limited Company (Pvt Ltd): Most preferred structure; allows 100% FDI in most sectors.
• Limited Liability Partnership (LLP): Suitable for service businesses and professional firms; FDI permitted in select cases.
• Liaison Office: Ideal for companies wanting to explore or represent without full operations.
• Branch Office: Allows foreign companies to conduct full-scale business in India.
• Project Office: Meant for foreign companies executing specific projects.

Note: One Person Company (OPC) and sole proprietorships are not allowed for foreign nationals or NRIs due to FDI restrictions.

Looking to register a business in India? Explore private limited company or LLP options with expert help today.”

Type of Company that NRIs and Foreign Nationals Can Register

While OPC is off the table, foreign nationals and NRIs can register the following:

• Private Limited Company
• Public Limited Company
• Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) – subject to FDI conditions

Under automatic FDI routes, many sectors do not require prior government approval for investment. However, some sectors are still under the approval route or have FDI caps.

The Private Limited Company remains the most flexible and founder-friendly choice, especially for technology, services, and product-based businesses.

Can a Foreigner Own 100% of an Indian Company?

Yes! Foreign nationals can own 100% of equity in Indian companies, provided the business operates in a sector under the automatic FDI route. This means:

• No need for government approval in most sectors.
• A resident Indian director is mandatory (must stay in India for at least 182 days in a financial year).
• Some sectors like defence, telecom, and insurance have FDI caps or require prior approvals.

Pre-requisites for Registration of a Private or Public Limited Company

Private Limited Company:

• Minimum 2 shareholders and 2 directors
• At least 1 Indian resident director
• Registered office address in India
• Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) for all directors
• Company name approval from the MCA

Public Limited Company:

• Minimum 7 shareholders and 3 directors
• Other requirements same as above

For foreign nationals, documents must be apostilled or notarised as per regulatory norms.

Documents Required for Foreign Directors & Shareholders

Foreign nationals need to submit the following documents:

• Passport (identity proof): notarised/apostilled
• Address Proof (bank statement, utility bill, not older than 2 months)
• Passport-size photograph
• Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) application form, duly signed
• Board resolution or power of attorney (in case of a foreign entity shareholder)

If applicable:

• PAN Card (mandatory for directors earning income in India)

 Process to Register a Company in India as a Foreigner

1. Obtain DSCs for all proposed directors
2. Apply for name approval on the MCA portal
3. Draft incorporation documents (MoA, AoA, declarations, etc.)
4. File incorporation application online via SPICe+ form
5. Receive Certificate of Incorporation from MCA
6. Apply for:
   
   • PAN & TAN
   • GST Registration (if applicable)
   • Bank account in the company’s name
     
     

Note: One resident Indian director is compulsory.

Taxation for Foreign-Owned Companies in India

Companies registered in India (even if foreign-owned) are treated as domestic companies for tax purposes:

• Corporate Tax: 25% (plus cess and surcharge) if turnover ≤ ₹400 crore
  
  
• GST: Mandatory if turnover exceeds ₹20 lakh (or if interstate services are provided)
  
  
• TDS: Deduction obligations apply when making payments to employees, contractors, or foreign entities
  
  
• Transfer Pricing Regulations: Apply for transactions with foreign affiliates or holding companies
  
  

India has Double Tax Avoidance Agreements (DTAAs) with many countries to reduce tax burden.

Company Types for Foreign Nationals

‍

Conclusion

While foreign nationals cannot register an OPC in India due to FDI restrictions, there are multiple flexible options available with the Private Limited Company being the most recommended. With the right legal support and compliance, India offers a rich, growth-oriented environment for foreign entrepreneurs to launch and scale their ventures.

‍

Procedure to Start an Online Business

Step 1: Identify Your Business Idea

How do I choose the right online business idea?

Choosing the right online business idea starts with understanding your own strengths. Think about your skills, hobbies, and what you’re passionate about. Also, assess market demand to ensure that your idea addresses a genuine need. You can brainstorm by asking yourself what problems you can solve or how your expertise can benefit others.

What are the most profitable online business ideas?

‍

Some of the most profitable online business ideas include e-commerce, dropshipping, freelancing, selling digital products, and affiliate marketing. These options require relatively low investment and have high growth potential in India. E-commerce and dropshipping are ideal for those interested in retail, while freelancing and digital products are great for service-oriented entrepreneurs.

How do I validate my business idea?

To validate your business idea, you should conduct market research and competitor analysis. This helps you understand if there’s demand for your product or service and how to position yourself in the market. Additionally, you can run surveys or test your idea on a small scale to gather feedback before fully committing to it.

Step 2: Conduct Market Research

Why is market research important for an online business?

Market research is crucial for understanding your target audience and the competition. It helps you identify customer needs, preferences, and pain points, allowing you to tailor your offerings effectively. By knowing what your competitors are doing, you can find gaps in the market and differentiate your business. This research forms the foundation for making informed decisions and reducing risks.

How do I conduct market research?

To conduct market research, start by using tools like Google Trends and keyword research tools (e.g., SEMrush, Ubersuggest) to identify trending topics and search volumes. You can also use social media insights to monitor conversations around your niche. Engaging directly with potential customers through surveys or focus groups will also give you valuable feedback.

What are the key metrics to analyse?

Key metrics to analyse include customer demographics, such as age, gender, location, and income level. Understanding buying behaviour, including purchase frequency and preferences, is equally important. Additionally, assessing the market size, competition, and growth potential helps you gauge the sustainability of your business idea.

Step 3: Create a Business Plan

Do I need a business plan for an online business?

Yes, a business plan is essential for an online business. It provides clarity on your goals and how you plan to achieve them. A solid business plan also plays a key role when seeking funding, as it helps potential investors or lenders understand the vision, strategy, and financial viability of your business.

What should a business plan include?

Your business plan should include the following sections:

1. Executive Summary: A brief overview of your business, mission, and vision.
2. Target Market: A detailed description of your ideal customers and their needs.
3. Revenue Model: A breakdown of how you’ll make money (e.g., product sales, subscriptions, services).
4. Marketing Strategy: A plan for how you'll promote your business, including online advertising, social media, and SEO.
   

How do I set realistic goals?

To set realistic goals, follow the SMART criteria:

1. Specific: Define clear, concise goals.
2. Measurable: Ensure your progress can be tracked.
3. Achievable: Set goals that are realistic given your resources.
4. Relevant: Ensure the goals align with your business objectives.
5. Time-bound: Assign deadlines to keep you on track. Setting SMART goals helps maintain focus and ensures steady progress.

Step 4: Choose a Business Model

What are the different online business models?

1. E-commerce: Selling physical or digital products through an online store.
2. Subscription-based: Offering products or services on a recurring basis, such as monthly subscriptions for digital content or curated boxes.
3. Service-based: Providing services like consulting, coaching, or freelance work directly to customers.
4. Ad-based: Earning revenue through advertising, typically via websites or social media platforms that attract large audiences.

Which business model is best for beginners?

For beginners, a service-based model or a subscription-based model might be the best fit. The service model often requires lower initial investment and offers flexibility in terms of workload. The subscription model provides recurring revenue, which can be predictable once you have a customer base. However, each model has its pros and cons:

1. E-commerce: High investment, but potential for significant profit.
2. Subscription-based: Steady income but may require strong marketing efforts.
3. Service-based: Low cost to start, but time-intensive and dependent on personal expertise.
4. Ad-based: Relatively low start-up cost, but requires a large audience and can take time to generate income.

How do I decide which model suits me?

To decide on the best business model, align your choice with your skills, budget, and long-term goals. If you have a skill set that can be marketed as a service (e.g., writing, design, tutoring), a service-based model might be a good start. If you want to sell products but have a limited budget, dropshipping or print-on-demand models may be better. Consider your available resources and the time you can commit before making your final decision.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Do I need to register my online business?

Yes, registering your online business is crucial for legal and tax purposes. It provides your business with a legal identity, ensures compliance with local regulations, and helps build credibility with customers. Without registration, you might face legal issues and be unable to access benefits like business loans or grants.

H4 - What are the steps to register a business?

1. Choose a business name: Make sure it reflects your brand and is unique.
2. Decide on a legal structure: Select the appropriate business structure (sole proprietorship, LLC, Private Limited, etc.).
3. Register for taxes: Apply for a Goods and Services Tax (GST) number if applicable.
4. Obtain required licenses: Depending on your business type, you may need specific licenses or permits.
5. Open a business bank account: This helps separate personal and business finances.
6. Get a business PAN (Permanent Account Number): Required for tax filings and business transactions.

What legal structure should I choose?

Choosing the right legal structure depends on factors like liability, taxes, and scalability:

1. Sole Proprietorship: Simple to set up, ideal for solo entrepreneurs, but you’ll be personally liable for business debts.
2. Limited Liability Partnership (LLP): Offers limited liability protection and is suitable for small businesses with partners.
3. Private Limited Company: A more complex structure that provides limited liability and is better suited for larger businesses looking for investment or expansion. It also offers tax benefits and more credibility.

Related Read: Difference between Private Limited Company and One Person Company

Step 6: Build Your Online Presence

How do I create a website for my business?

1. Choose a domain name: Pick a name that reflects your business and is easy to remember. Check for availability using domain registrars like GoDaddy or Hostinger.
2. Select a hosting provider: Choose a reliable hosting service, such as Bluehost or SiteGround, to ensure your website runs smoothly.
3. Use website builders: Website builders like WordPress and Shopify are user-friendly and offer templates for quick setup. WordPress is ideal for blogs and content-focused websites, while Shopify is perfect for e-commerce stores.

Do I need social media for my online business?

Yes, social media is crucial for marketing and customer engagement. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn help you reach a wider audience and build brand awareness. Social media allows you to connect with customers, share updates, promote products, and gather feedback. It’s an affordable way to drive traffic to your website and create a loyal community around your brand.

What are the essential features of a business website?

1. User-friendly design: A clean, easy-to-navigate layout that enhances the user experience.
2. Secure payment gateways: Integrated payment gateway (e.g. Razorpay) to facilitate safe and smooth transactions.
3. Mobile responsiveness: Your website should be fully optimised for mobile devices, as many users shop and browse on their phones.

Step 7: Set Up Payment and Shipping Systems

H4 - How do I accept payments online?
To accept payments online, you need to integrate a reliable payment gateway into your website. Payment gateways like PayPal, Stripe, and Razorpay allow you to process credit card payments, debit cards, and digital wallets securely. The setup process usually involves creating an account with the provider, linking it to your business bank account, and adding their payment gateway to your website using plugins or APIs. 

What are the best shipping options for an online store?

1. Self-shipping: If you’re a small business, you can handle shipping yourself by partnering with courier services like India Post, DTDC, or Blue Dart. This gives you more control but requires time and resources.
2. Third-party logistics (3PL): 3PL companies manage storage, packaging, and delivery on your behalf. This is ideal for businesses that want to scale quickly without handling logistics.
3. Dropshipping: This model eliminates the need for inventory management. When a customer places an order, the product is directly shipped from the supplier. It’s cost-effective, but you have less control over shipping times and quality.

How do I handle international payments and shipping?

1. Payments: Use global payment gateways like PayPal or Razorpay, which support multiple currencies. You’ll need to set up your account to handle cross-border payments and be aware of transaction fees and exchange rates.

• Shipping: Partner with international couriers like DHL or FedEx for global shipping. Ensure that you account for customs duties, taxes, and potential delays. Consider using platforms like Shiprocket or Easyship, which can automate international logistics and offer competitive shipping rates.

Step 8: Market Your Online Business

How do I promote my online business?

1. SEO (Search Engine Optimisation): Optimise your website for relevant keywords, improve loading speeds, and focus on creating quality content to rank higher in search engines.
2. Social Media Marketing: Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to engage with your audience, share valuable content, and promote offers.
3. Email Marketing: Build an email list and send newsletters, promotional offers, or product updates to keep customers engaged.
4. Paid Ads: Run ads on Google, Facebook, or Instagram to increase brand visibility and attract potential customers. Paid advertising can generate quick results if targeted effectively.

What is the best way to attract customers?

1. Content Marketing: Create blog posts, videos, or infographics that provide value to your audience and establish your brand as an authority in your niche.
2. Influencer Collaborations: Partner with influencers in your industry to promote your products or services, leveraging their established trust and following.
3. Customer Reviews: Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews and testimonials. Positive feedback can build credibility and influence potential customers' purchasing decisions.

How do I track the success of my marketing efforts?

To track the success of your marketing efforts, use tools like:

1. Google Analytics: Monitor website traffic, user behaviour, and conversion rates. Google Analytics gives you detailed insights into your website’s performance.
2. Social Media Insights: Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter provide analytics on engagement, reach, and audience demographics, helping you assess the effectiveness of your social media campaigns. These tools can help you fine-tune your marketing strategies and ensure that your efforts are yielding the desired results.

Step 9: Manage Operations and Scale

How do I manage day-to-day operations?
To manage day-to-day operations effectively, use tools that streamline tasks:

1. Inventory Management: Tools like TradeGecko or Zoho Inventory help track stock levels, manage orders, and avoid overselling.
2. Customer Support: Platforms like Zendesk or Freshdesk assist in managing customer inquiries, complaints, and service requests efficiently.
3. Order Tracking: Use tools like Shiprocket or AfterShip to monitor and update customers on the status of their orders in real-time, improving their experience.

When should I consider scaling my business?

1. Consistent Revenue Growth: When your sales show a steady increase over a few months or years, it indicates that your business model is working.
2. High Customer Demand: If customers are requesting more products or services than you can provide, or if you’re struggling to meet demand, it’s a clear sign that you’re ready to expand.
3. Positive Cash Flow: If you have a healthy profit margin and can reinvest earnings back into the business, scaling becomes a feasible option.

• What are the best ways to scale an online business?

1. Expand Product Lines: Add complementary products or services to cater to a broader audience or meet existing customer needs.
2. Enter New Markets: Consider selling to customers in different regions, cities, or even internationally to broaden your reach.
3. Automate Processes: Use automation tools for marketing (e.g., Mailchimp for emails), customer support (e.g., chatbots), and order fulfilment to reduce the workload and enhance efficiency. By scaling smartly, you can increase your reach and profitability without compromising the quality of your offerings.

Registration of Online Business in India

• Choose a suitable business structure: Decide whether to register as a Sole Proprietorship, LLP, or Private Limited Company based on your business model, scalability needs, and compliance requirements.
• Select a unique business name: Check name availability on the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) portal and register it to avoid legal issues.
• Apply for PAN and TAN: A Permanent Account Number (PAN) is required for financial transactions. At the same time, a Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number (TAN) is mandatory if your business deducts taxes at the source.
• Register for GST: If your annual turnover exceeds ₹40 lakhs (₹20 lakhs for special category states), you must register for Goods and Services Tax (GST) to collect and pay taxes legally.
• Register under MSME if applicable: If you own a small or medium-sized business, registering under the Udyam (MSME) scheme can provide benefits like easier loan approvals and government subsidies.
• Obtain necessary licenses and permits: Depending on your industry, you may need specific licenses, such as an FSSAI license for food businesses, a trade license for local operations, or an Import Export Code (IEC) for international trade.
• Open a business bank account: A separate bank account in your business name is required for handling payments, tax filings, and financial transactions professionally.

{{company-reg-cta}}

Tips to Start an Online Business in India

• Identify a Profitable Niche
  
  Selecting the right niche is important for success. Focus on a business idea that matches your skills and interests while also having strong market demand. Research your competitors to find opportunities where you can stand out.
• Build a Strong Online Presence
  Creating a website or an e-commerce store is essential for any online business. Make sure your website is easy to use, mobile-friendly, and optimised for search engines. Use social media to connect with your audience and promote your products or services.

• Ensure Legal Compliance
  Every online business must comply with the legal requirements for online business in India to operate lawfully. You need to register your business and get GST registration in India. It is also important to comply with tax and other regulations. Completing these formalities ensures smooth operations and avoids legal issues. 

• Set Up Secure Payment Systems
  
  Providing a secure and convenient payment method builds customer trust. Choose a reliable payment gateway that supports multiple payment options and ensures smooth transactions for your customers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rules for Selecting Company Name Under the Companies Act

When you select a company name, it must comply with the Companies Act to ensure uniqueness and legal approval. Here are the key rules to follow:

Avoid Similar or Identical Names

Your company name must not closely resemble an already registered business. The ROC conducts a company name check, and if the proposed name is found to be too similar to an existing one, it will be rejected. For example, if "GreenTech Solutions Pvt Ltd" is already registered, "GreenTech Solution Pvt Ltd" may be rejected due to similarity.

Restriction on Certain Words

You cannot use words that suggest a connection with the Central or State Government, local authorities, or government bodies, unless prior approval is obtained. For instance, names like "India National Bank Ltd" or "Government Infrastructure Pvt Ltd" require special permissions.

Prohibited Expressions

Some words and expressions are restricted under Rule 8B of the Incorporation Rules. You must seek approval from the Central Government before using them in your LLP or company name.

Mandatory Suffix for Entity Type

The company name must clearly indicate its legal structure.

• A One Person Company (OPC) should have "(OPC) Private Limited" in its name.
  
• A Private Company must include "Private Limited" (Pvt Ltd).
  
• A Public Company must end with "Limited" (Ltd).
  

A Brief About Acceptable Name for LLP

An acceptable LLP or company name in India consists of three key components. The Name Part that gives the business a unique identity, such as "Bright" in Bright Solutions LLP. The Object Part that reflects the company's activity, like "Solutions" indicating a service-based business. The Constitution Part that defines the legal structure, such as "LLP" in Bright Solutions LLP.

Name Part

The Name Part is the unique and distinguishable element of a company or LLP name. It must comply with the Companies Act 2013 or the LLP Act 2008 and should not be identical or deceptively similar to existing companies, LLPs, or registered trademarks within the same industry. The ROC verifies the name to ensure distinctiveness and prevent duplication.

For example, a name like Bluewave Technologies LLP is acceptable because it is unique and clearly identifiable. However, Bluewave Tech LLP may be rejected as it closely resembles an existing name. Similarly, GreenVista Textiles Private Limited is a valid name, but Green Vista Private Limited may be considered too similar to an existing business and could face rejection. Ensuring a distinct name that does not match or closely resemble an existing company improves the chances of approval.

Object Part

The Object Part in a company or LLP name defines its primary business activity. It must be clearly stated to indicate the company's purpose and ensure compliance with naming regulations.

If two companies have similar name parts but different object parts, both names may still be approved, as long as they belong to distinct industries. However, names without a clear object part or with generic words like "dash Private Limited" are too vague and may be rejected by the ROC because it does not specify what the company does.

Related Read: Difference Between LLP and Partnership

Examples of Common Object Parts in Company and LLP Names

Constitution Part

The Constitution Part indicates the legal structure of the business. It must match the type of entity being registered, ensuring clarity in compliance and business operations. Here are the specific terms which are used for different entities:

• Private Limited Company (Pvt Ltd) - For privately held businesses
  
• One Person Company (OPC) - For single-owner companies
  
• Limited Company (Ltd) - For publicly listed businesses
  
• Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) - For partnership-based entities with limited liability
  

{{llp-cta}}

Minimum Authorised Capital For Certain Words

When registering a company, using specific words in its name requires meeting minimum authorised capital requirements as per the Companies Act 2013. Words like "Corporation," "International," and "Industries" have higher capital requirements to ensure that only financially strong businesses use them. This helps maintain credibility and prevents misuse of these terms by companies with limited resources.

Before you apply to register a company name, verifying the capital requirements is essential to ensure compliance and avoid rejection. The table below outlines the required minimum authorised capital for specific words:

When Will Companies House Refuse to Register a Company Name?

Companies House may reject a name if it does not comply with legal guidelines. Below are the key reasons why a company name may be refused:

• Identical or Too Similar to an Existing Name: If the proposed name is the same or closely resembles an already registered company, it will be rejected.
  
• Offensive or Illegal Names: Any name containing offensive, abusive, or illegal terms will not be approved.
  
• Implying Government Affiliation: Names suggesting an association with the government, public authorities, or international organisations require special approval.
  
• Use of Sensitive Words or Symbols: Certain words, such as "Royal," "Bank," or "Trust," require prior consent before use.
  
• Misleading Use of Business Terms: Using terms like "Limited" (Ltd.), "Public Limited Company" (PLC), or "LLP" incorrectly or misleadingly can lead to rejection.
  

Objections to Company Names

Even after registration, objections to a LLP or company name may arise if it does not comply with legal requirements. Ensuring that the name is unique and non-misleading is crucial to avoiding disputes. Common reasons for objections include:

• Too Similar to an Existing Business: If a company name closely resembles another registered entity, the affected business can file an objection.
  
• Misleading Information During Registration: If false or inaccurate details were provided while registering the name, objections may be raised.
  
• Failure to Meet Registration Conditions: A name that does not adhere to naming regulations or lacks necessary approvals may face challenges.
  
• Opportunistic Registration: If a name is registered to take advantage of another company’s goodwill, it can be legally disputed.
  

Related Read: How much does an LLP cost in India?

How to Check Company Name Availability Online?

Before registering a company, you must check whether the proposed name is available to avoid rejection. The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) portal provides an online tool to verify company name availability. Here’s a step-by-step guide to checking a company name online:

1. Visit the MCA Website: Go to www.mca.gov.in.
2. Access the Name Availability Tool: Under the ‘MCA Services’ section, select ‘For Services’ from the drop-down menu and then select ‘Check Company/LLP Name’.
3. Enter the Proposed Name: Type the desired company name in the search box and click on the ‘Search’ button.
4. Review the Results: The portal will indicate whether the name is available or already registered.

Additional Checks for Better Approval Chances

• Trademark Search: Use the Razorpay Rize Name Search Tool to check for potential trademark conflicts.
• Alternative Name Options: Verify multiple name options to avoid rejection and ensure compliance with naming rules.

Conclusion

Choosing the right company or LLP name is crucial for legal compliance and brand identity. Ensure the name is unique, relevant, and adheres to MCA guidelines to avoid objections. Conduct a thorough name availability check on the MCA portal and verify potential trademark conflicts before finalising a name. A well-chosen name not only simplifies registration but also builds a strong brand identity while ensuring long-term legal compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions