India
22–30%
Körperschaftsteuer
5–10 business days
Gründungszeit
INR 100,000 (Pvt Ltd, no statutory minimum but practical standard)
Mindestkapital
100% under automatic route in most sectors (FDI restrictions in some: defence, media, multi-brand retail)
Ausländisches Eigentum
#63
Geschäftsfreundlichkeit
India's company registration process has been substantially digitised under the MCA21 portal — a Private Limited Company can be registered in 5–10 business days for under INR 10,000 in government fees. For founders targeting India's 1.4 billion consumer market, there is no substitute for local incorporation. The 22% corporate tax rate (for domestic companies that don't claim exemptions) is competitive for a G20 economy, and the Startup India recognition program unlocks tax holidays, easier compliance, and government procurement access for registered startups. The complexity is in compliance: India has one of the world's most complex tax environments — GST, TDS, ROC filings, and sector-specific regulations all require ongoing professional management.
- Indian founders building a startup — particularly those seeking Startup India recognition for tax holidays and compliance benefits
- NRIs establishing an Indian entity to access the domestic market or manage Indian assets
- Foreign companies entering India through a wholly-owned subsidiary or joint venture
- Tech startups targeting India's massive digital consumer base and VC ecosystem
- Companies in manufacturing seeking the concessional 15% corporate tax rate for new manufacturing entities
India's ongoing compliance requirements are non-trivial. Budget INR 60,000–150,000/year for a chartered accountant to manage GST returns, TDS filings, annual ROC returns, and tax compliance. Non-compliance penalties are significant — late ROC filing attracts INR 100/day per form, and non-filing of income tax returns can result in prosecution. At least one director must be an Indian resident (182+ days in India in the preceding year).
Auf einen Blick
Verfügbare Unternehmensformen
Private Limited Company (Pvt Ltd)
Private Limited Company (Pvt Ltd)
View Details →
Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
View Details →
Kostenübersicht
Steuerübersicht
Banking-Realitätscheck
Zeitplan: 1–3 weeks
India has a large banking sector with major private banks (HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, Kotak Mahindra) and public sector banks (SBI, PNB, Bank of Baroda). Opening a current account for a Pvt Ltd requires the Certificate of Incorporation, PAN, board resolution, KYC of all directors, and the registered office proof. Most banks require an in-person visit. For companies with foreign directors, additional documentation (apostilled passport, overseas address proof) is required. Digital banking options are improving (RazorpayX, Open), but most corporate banking still runs through traditional banks. FEMA regulations govern all foreign exchange transactions — ensure your bank is informed about the nature and source of foreign remittances.
Visa und Einwanderung
India offers a Business Visa for foreign nationals visiting for business activities, conferences, or board meetings (typically valid for 1–5 years with multiple entries, maximum stay of 180 days per visit). The Employment Visa is required for foreigners taking up employment in India, with a minimum salary threshold of USD 25,000 per annum. India does not have a dedicated startup visa, but the Startup India initiative facilitates incorporation and compliance for recognised startups. The e-Business Visa is available for short business visits. NRIs and PIOs benefit from the OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) card, which provides lifetime visa-free entry and the right to work in India.
Freihandelszonen und Sonderwirtschaftszonen
268 Freihandelszonen verfügbar
Häufige Fehler
Incorporating without an Indian-resident director
Fix: At least one director must have stayed in India for a minimum of 182 days in the preceding calendar year. This is verified against DIN records. If no founder qualifies, appoint a local professional director — but document the arrangement carefully and ensure the nominee has limited operational authority.
Failing to file INC-20A within 180 days of incorporation
Fix: The declaration of commencement of business (Form INC-20A) must be filed within 180 days of incorporation, confirming that subscribers have paid the value of shares. Failure to file means the company cannot commence business, and the Registrar may initiate proceedings to strike off the company.
Underestimating GST compliance complexity
Fix: GST in India operates across four primary slabs (5%, 12%, 18%, 28%) with additional cess on some goods. Monthly or quarterly GST returns (GSTR-1, GSTR-3B) must be filed on time — late filing attracts INR 50/day (INR 20/day for nil returns). Input tax credit reconciliation (GSTR-2B matching) adds further complexity. Engage a qualified GST practitioner from day one.
Ignoring FEMA regulations for foreign investment
Fix: All foreign direct investment (FDI) in India is governed by FEMA and the FDI Policy. Share issuance to foreign investors must comply with pricing guidelines (not below fair value), reporting requirements (FC-GPR form within 30 days), and sectoral caps. Non-compliance with FEMA can result in penalties up to three times the amount involved. Engage a CA or CS specialising in FEMA compliance.
Häufig gestellte Fragen
Den nächsten Schritt machen
Gründungsübersicht erhalten für India
Individuelle Kostenschätzung, empfohlene Rechtsform und nächste Schritte.
This content is educational and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Always consult a qualified professional for your specific situation. Data last verified March 2026.