Starting and running a business in India requires various registrations and licenses to ensure legal compliance, credibility, and access to benefits. Below are some of the essential registrations.
FSSAI Registration
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulates food businesses to ensure safety and hygiene standards. Businesses involved in food manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, and sale must obtain an FSSAI license.
Types of Registration: Basic, State, and Central License
Eligibility: Based on annual turnover and business scale
Application Process: Apply online via FoSCoS
Documents Required: PAN, Aadhaar, business registration proof, food safety management plan
ICE Code Registration
The Importer Exporter Code (IEC) is mandatory for businesses engaged in international trade.
Issuing Authority: Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)
Application Process: Apply online via DGFT
Documents Required: PAN, Aadhaar, business registration proof, bank details
APEDA Registration
The Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) promotes agricultural exports.
Eligibility: Exporters of scheduled agricultural products
Application Process: Apply online via APEDA
Documents Required: IEC, business registration proof, bank details
RCMC Registration
The Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) is required for exporters to avail benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy.
Issuing Authority: Export Promotion Councils (EPCs)
Application Process: Apply via DGFT
Documents Required: IEC, business registration proof, PAN
MSME Registration
Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) registration provides benefits such as subsidies, tax exemptions, and easier access to loans.
Application Process: Register via Udyam Registration
Documents Required: Aadhaar, PAN, business registration proof
ISO 9001 Certification
ISO 9001 is a quality management system (QMS) certification that ensures businesses meet international quality standards.
Application Process: Apply via ISO
Documents Required: Business registration proof, quality management documentation
ISO 27001 Certification
ISO 27001 is an information security management system (ISMS) certification that ensures data security.
Application Process: Apply via ISO
Documents Required: Business registration proof, security policies
GST Registration
Goods and Services Tax (GST) registration is mandatory for businesses exceeding the turnover threshold.
Application Process: Register via GST Portal
Documents Required: PAN, Aadhaar, business registration proof, bank details
ESI & PF Registration
Employee State Insurance (ESI) and Provident Fund (PF) registration are required for businesses employing a certain number of workers.
Application Process: Register via ESIC and EPFO
Documents Required: Business registration proof, employee details
NITI Aayog Registration
NGOs and organizations seeking government funding must register with NITI Aayog.
Application Process: Apply via NITI Aayog
Documents Required: Business registration proof, financial statements
12A & 80G Registration
NGOs must obtain 12A & 80G registration to avail tax exemptions and allow donors to claim deductions.
Application Process: Apply via Income Tax Department
Documents Required: Trust deed, financial statements, PAN
GeM Registration
The Government e-Marketplace (GeM) enables businesses to sell products and services to government buyers.
Application Process: Register via GeM Portal
Documents Required: Business registration proof, PAN, bank details
AD Code Registration
The Authorized Dealer (AD) Code is required for exporters to receive payments.
Application Process: Register via ICEGATE
Documents Required: IEC, bank details, AD Code letter from the bank