Start-up Registration Scheme in India

What is the Startup India Scheme?

Startup India is a flagship program of the Indian Government that supports entrepreneurs and innovators. It provides a structured platform for registration, recognition, and growth.

Through DPIIT recognition, startups get access to numerous benefits such as:

• Simplified regulatory compliance
• Tax exemptions
• Financial assistance through seed funding
• Fast-tracked intellectual property rights (IPR) filing
• Mentorship and networking support

The vision of this program is to make India a global center for innovation and job creation by encouraging young people to build their own ventures.

Startups recognized under this scheme are listed officially by DPIIT and can avail multiple central and state-level benefits through the Startup India portal

Eligibility Criteria for Startup India Registration

To register under the Startup India Scheme and obtain DPIIT recognition, the following eligibility conditions must be met:

• The business must be registered as a Private Limited Company, Limited Liability Partnership (LLP), or Partnership Firm in India.
• The startup must be less than 10 years old from the date of incorporation.
• The annual turnover must not exceed ₹100 crore in any financial year.
• The business must focus on innovation, development, or improvement of products, services, or processes.
• The startup should not be formed by splitting or reconstructing an existing business.
• It must obtain recognition from DPIIT to avail all Startup India benefits.

Note : DPIIT recognition can now be applied through the National Single Window System (NSWS), allowing one-stop access to multiple government approvals.

Step-by-Step Registration Process

1. Step 1: Business Incorporation
   First, register your business as a Private Limited Company, LLP, or Partnership Firm through the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) portal. Obtain your Certificate of Incorporation, PAN, and TAN.
2. Step 2: Create an Account on Startup India Portal
   Visit official government website and click on “Register.” Enter your name, email ID, and business details to create your profile.
3. Step 3: Apply for DPIIT Recognition
   Log in and click “Get Recognized by DPIIT.” Fill in all required details about your business, innovation, and future plans.Upload the necessary documents and submit your application.
4. Step 4: Verification
   The DPIIT reviews your application and verifies your eligibility.
5. Step 5: Receive DPIIT Certificate
   Once approved, you’ll receive a DPIIT Recognition Certificate confirming your startup status.This certificate gives you access to all Startup India benefits.

Documents Required for Startup India Registration

To complete your Startup India registration, you’ll need the following documents:

1. Certificate of Incorporation or Partnership Deed
2. PAN Card of the business entity
3. Proof of business address (rent agreement or ownership proof)
4. List and details of directors or partners
5. A brief write-up about business innovation or uniqueness
6. Bank account details of the company
7. Website URL or pitch deck (if applicable)
8. Authorization letter (if consultant applies on your behalf)

Latest Update: Startups can now upload all documents directly through the NSWS portal, ensuring faster approval and real-time tracking.

DPIIT Recognition and Its Importance

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) recognition is crucial for every startup under this scheme.
Once you get recognized, your business becomes eligible for government funding, tax exemptions, and legal benefits.

Key Advantages of DPIIT Recognition:

• 3-year income tax holiday under Section 80-IAC.
• Easier access to funds through SIDBI and seed funding programs.
• Eligibility to participate in government tenders and procurement.
• Self-certification under labour and environmental laws.
• Fast-track IPR protection and financial incentives for patent filing.

Tax Exemptions and Incentives for Startups

DPIIT-recognized startups can enjoy multiple financial advantages:

• 3-Year Tax Holiday: 100% exemption on income tax for three consecutive years (within the first ten years).
• Capital Gains Exemption: Exemption for investors who reinvest capital gains in eligible startups.
• GST Exemption: Startups under the threshold limit are exempt from GST registration.
• Reduced Compliance Costs: Self-certification under major laws reduces compliance burden.
• Funding Incentives: Eligible startups can access the Startup India Seed Fund for early-stage support.

Latest Updates in Startup India Scheme 2025

Here are some new updates introduced in 2025 to make the Startup India Scheme more efficient and accessible:

• Integration with NSWS: Startups can now apply for multiple approvals (MSME, FSSAI, GST, etc.) through one dashboard.
• Faster DPIIT Recognition: DPIIT now processes recognition applications within 7 working days.
• GST Exemption: Startups under the threshold limit are exempt from GST registration.
• Green Startup Promotion: Startups working in sustainable and clean technologies get priority funding.
• Women Entrepreneur Incentives: New funding programs launched for women-led startups with relaxed eligibility.
• One District One Startup (ODOS): State-level incubation support for startups in smaller districts.
• Startup India Innovation Week 2025: New collaborations with global accelerators for market expansion.