Expanding your business into a new country is an exciting opportunity. India, with its fast-growing economy, skilled workforce, and large consumer market, is a popular choice for many foreign companies. But one important question arises – is an Indian subsidiary the right choice for your business expansion?.
In this blog, we’ll explain what an Indian subsidiary is, how it compares to other business structures, and help you decide if it’s the right path for your business in India. We’ll also touch on Liaison office registration in India, Project office registration, and Sole proprietorship registration, so you can explore all your options.
An Indian subsidiary company is a company registered in India but owned and controlled by a foreign company. The parent company (foreign company) owns more than 50% of the shares in the Indian company. This gives the parent company control over business decisions, while still following Indian laws.
There are two types of subsidiaries:
Wholly-owned subsidiary – where 100% of shares are owned by the foreign parent company.
Partially-owned subsidiary – where more than 50%, but not all, of the shares are owned by the foreign parent.
Here are some major advantages of Indian subsidiary company registration:
An Indian subsidiary can carry out full business operations like manufacturing, trading, providing services, hiring employees, and more. It has more freedom compared to other business structures.
Shareholders of the subsidiary have limited liability, which means their personal assets are protected in case of any business losses.
With an Indian subsidiary, you can tap into the Indian market, build local trust, and provide better service to customers.
The subsidiary is treated as a separate legal entity in India. This gives it the power to own assets, enter into contracts, and file legal actions independently.
Documents Required for Indian Subsidiary Company Registration
To register a subsidiary company in India, you generally need the following:
Identity and address proof of directors
Passport (if foreign national)
Proof of address for the company (rental agreement or ownership document)
Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
Memorandum and Articles of Association (MoA and AoA)
Process of Indian Subsidiary Company Registration
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Get DSC and DIN for proposed directors.
Reserve a company name through the RUN (Reserve Unique Name) service.
Prepare incorporation documents and file them with the Registrar of Companies (ROC).
Get the Certificate of Incorporation from the ROC.
Apply for PAN, TAN, and other registrations like GST.
Other Options for Foreign Companies in India
Before deciding on a subsidiary, it’s wise to explore other business structures. Let’s look at three common alternatives:
A liaison office registration acts as a communication bridge between the parent company and Indian companies or customers. It cannot earn income or do business in India.
Best for: Market research, promotional activities, or exploring business opportunities.
Limitations:
Cannot carry on commercial or business activities
Must be funded through the parent company
Requires approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
A project office registration is opened in India to carry out a specific project for a limited time. It is allowed only if the foreign company has secured a contract from an Indian company.
Best for: Executing a specific project in India (e.g., construction or engineering projects).
Limitations:
Limited to the scope of the project
Cannot undertake unrelated business activities
A sole proprietorship registration is a simple business structure where one person owns and runs the business. It’s easy to start but doesn’t suit foreign companies well.
Best for: Indian citizens running a small business on their own.
Limitations for foreign businesses:
Foreigners cannot register a sole proprietorship easily
No separate legal identity
No limited liability protection
Indian Subsidiary vs Liaison Office vs Project Office
|
Feature |
Indian Subsidiary |
Liaison Office |
Project Office |
|
Business Activities |
Full operations |
No business allowed |
Project-specific only |
|
Ownership |
Foreign company |
Foreign company |
Foreign company |
|
Income Generation |
Yes |
No |
Yes (project-specific) |
|
RBI Approval |
Not needed (automatic in many sectors) |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Legal Entity |
Separate |
Not separate |
Not separate |
|
Taxation |
Normal business tax |
No income (no tax) |
Based on project income |
Let’s look at when an Indian subsidiary is a good choice:
✅ You want to carry out full business operations in India
✅ You want to hire staff, own assets, or open bank accounts
✅ You need limited liability protection
✅ You plan to operate long-term in India
✅ You want a separate legal identity for better compliance and branding
If your goals match the above, Indian subsidiary company registration is likely the best choice for you.
India offers multiple options for foreign companies planning to enter its market. Among them, an Indian subsidiary gives you the most control, flexibility, and independence. Other options like liaison office registration in India or project office registration, are suitable for specific needs, but come with limitations.
If you're just testing the waters, a liaison office might be enough. But if you're serious about long-term growth in India, registering an Indian subsidiary is a smart and strong step forward.
Whether it’s Indian subsidiary company registration, liaison office registration, project office setup, or even guidance on sole proprietorship registration, our team of legal experts can help you every step of the way. Get in touch today for a smooth, quick, and compliant business setup in India.
The insurance industry in India is growing fast. With rising awareness about health, life, and financial security, more people are buying insurance. This growth also brings many business opportunities. If your company wants to enter the insurance sector in India, you need to get the proper license first.
This blog explains all the important points about getting an insurance license in India. We will also cover Insurance Broker License Registration, Insurance Company License Registration, and ISNP Registration Online in simple terms.
Why Do You Need an Insurance License?
In India, insurance is a regulated industry. The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) manages this sector. IRDAI ensures that all insurance activities are safe, transparent, and in the interest of policyholders.
To run any kind of insurance-related business, your company must get the right license from IRDAI. Without a valid license, it is illegal to sell insurance or act as a broker or intermediary.
Types of Insurance Licenses for Companies
There are different types of licenses depending on the kind of work your company wants to do in the insurance sector:
If your company wants to start its own insurance business (like a life insurance or health insurance company), then you need an Insurance Company License Registration from IRDAI.
If your company wants to work as a middleman between customers and insurance companies, then you need an Insurance Broker License Registration.
If you want to sell insurance policies through your company’s website or app, then you must complete the ISNP Registration Online process.
Insurance Company License Registration
Starting an insurance company is a big responsibility and requires approval from IRDAI. Here is the step-by-step process for Insurance Company License Registration:
Decide whether your company wants to offer:
Life Insurance
General Insurance
Health Insurance
Reinsurance
Register your company as a public limited company under the Companies Act, 2013. The company must have a minimum paid-up capital:
₹100 crore for Life or General Insurance
₹200 crore for Reinsurance
Submit the R1 application form with all the required documents like business plan, capital structure, and promoter details.
After getting the R1 approval, apply for the R2 license. This includes final documents, statutory certifications, and operational setup proof.
Once IRDAI reviews and approves your R2 application, you will receive a license to operate your insurance company in India.
Insurance Broker License Registration
If your company wants to act as a broker and help people buy insurance policies from various insurance companies, then Insurance Broker License Registration is required.
Direct Broker – Deals directly with customers
Reinsurance Broker – Deals with reinsurance companies
Composite Broker – Works as both direct and reinsurance broker
₹75 lakh for Direct Broker
₹4 crore for Reinsurance Broker
₹5 crore for Composite Broker
Register your company as per Indian company laws.
Apply to IRDAI with Form B – Application for Broker License.
Submit all necessary documents like:
Business plan
Infrastructure details
Capital proof
Principal officer’s qualifications
IRDAI will conduct a background check.
On successful verification, your company will receive the broker license.
ISNP Registration Online (Insurance Self-Network Platform)
In today’s digital world, companies also want to sell insurance through their own websites or mobile apps. For this, IRDAI has introduced ISNP Registration Online.
ISNP stands for Insurance Self-Network Platform. It allows companies to set up an online platform to distribute insurance policies digitally.
Insurance Companies
Insurance Brokers
Corporate Agents
Web Aggregators
Your company must already have a valid insurance license (either as a company or broker).
Apply online on IRDAI’s portal for ISNP Registration.
Submit documents like:
Website/app structure
IT security audit reports
Data protection policy
Cybersecurity measures
IRDAI will verify your digital systems.
If everything is in order, you will get approval to run an ISNP.
Documents Required for Insurance Licenses
The documents may vary based on the license type, but generally, the following are required:
Certificate of Incorporation
Memorandum and Articles of Association (MoA and AoA)
Business plan for 5 years
Net worth certificate by a Chartered Accountant
Principal officer's qualifications and experience
Details of infrastructure and office setup
Board Resolution for applying license
Compliance declaration
IRDAI Fees and Validity
IRDAI charges a registration fee which differs for each type of license:
Insurance Company: ₹50 lakh to ₹1 crore
Insurance Broker: ₹25,000 to ₹5 lakh (depending on broker type)
ISNP Registration: No extra fee if you already have a valid insurance license
Licenses are generally valid for 3 years and can be renewed upon application.
Why Choose the Right License?
Getting the correct license not only makes your business legal but also:
Builds trust with customers
Helps in partnerships with other financial institutions
Gives access to various insurance products and platforms
Ensures compliance with government rules
Conclusion
The insurance market in India is full of potential. Whether you want to open an insurance company, act as a broker, or sell insurance online, your company must first get the right license from IRDAI.
Here’s a quick recap:
Go for Insurance Company License Registration if you want to start your own insurance company.
Go for Insurance Broker License Registration if you want to sell policies from various companies.
Complete ISNP Registration Online if you want to sell insurance digitally through your website or app.
Make sure you follow all IRDAI guidelines and submit the correct documents to avoid delays. Getting an insurance license in India is a detailed process, but with proper planning and help from legal experts, it can be done smoothly.
Need help with your Insurance License Registration?
Our expert team can guide your company through the entire process — from document collection to IRDAI approval. Reach out today to get started!
Starting a business in the healthcare or cosmetic sector in India requires you to follow many government rules. One of the most important steps is getting the right registration or license for your products. If you want to sell medical devices, cosmetics, or drugs, you may have heard about CDSCO registration. But is CDSCO registration in India mandatory for all medical devices? Let’s understand this in simple words.
What is CDSCO?
CDSCO stands for the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization. It is the main authority in India that looks after the quality, safety, and performance of drugs, medical devices, and cosmetics. CDSCO works under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
Before any medical device is sold in India, CDSCO checks whether the device is safe for use or not. This makes Online CDSCO Registration in India very important for businesses in the health sector.
Is CDSCO Registration Mandatory for All Medical Devices?
The answer is – Yes, but not always immediately. Let us explain.
Earlier, only a few high-risk medical devices needed registration under the CDSCO. But now, as per the latest notifications, almost all medical devices are covered under CDSCO regulations.
As per the Medical Device Rules (MDR) 2017, CDSCO has classified medical devices into four categories:
Today, the Indian government wants even low-risk devices to be registered so that all products are safe and trustworthy. So, Medical Device Registration in India is now mandatory for both manufacturers and importers.
Why Is Medical Device Registration in India Important?
Registering your medical devices has many benefits:
Step-by-Step Process for CDSCO Registration in India
What If I Manufacture Cosmetics?
If you manufacture cosmetics like creams, shampoos, or lotions, you must get a Cosmetic License Registration for manufacturing from the CDSCO. Just like medical devices, cosmetics also need approval before being sold in India.
This license ensures that:
So, if your business deals with cosmetic manufacturing, Cosmetic License Registration for manufacturing is a must.
What About Drug Products?
If your business is into medicines or pharmaceutical products, then you will need a Drug License Registration.
There are mainly two types of drug licenses:
This license is issued under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and is also regulated by CDSCO and state drug controllers.
CDSCO Covers All Three: Medical Devices, Cosmetics, and Drugs
To summarize:
|
Product Type |
Required Registration |
|
Medical Devices |
CDSCO Medical Device Registration |
|
Cosmetics |
CDSCO Cosmetic License Registration |
|
Drugs/Medicines |
Drug License Registration |
So, whether you are manufacturing or importing any of these, you need to follow CDSCO rules to run your business legally and safely.
Consequences of Not Registering
Skipping CDSCO registration can lead to:
That’s why registration is not just a formality – it’s your responsibility as a manufacturer or importer.
Final Words
CDSCO Registration in India is now mandatory for almost all medical devices. The Indian government is serious about health and safety. If you are a manufacturer or importer of medical devices, it is important to stay updated and follow the required rules.
Also, don’t forget – if your business is about making cosmetics or selling medicines, then Cosmetic License Registration for manufacturing and Drug License Registration are also necessary.
Whether you are new in the business or already running one, getting the right registration helps you grow legally and win customer trust.
If you need help with Medical Device Registration in India or with any other licenses, you can contact a legal or licensing expert to make the process easier and faster.
In today’s world, fairness and accuracy in trade are very important. When we buy something by weight, volume, length, or number, we trust that the seller is giving us the correct amount. But how can we be sure that the measurements are right? This is where Legal Metrology Registration becomes important.
Legal Metrology is the law that deals with units of measurements and the devices used for measuring things. In India, this law helps make sure that all weights and measures used in trade are standard and accurate. This protects both buyers and sellers from cheating and ensures fairness in business.
In this blog, we will explain why Legal Metrology Registration is mandatory in India, and what types of registrations and licenses are required for businesses that deal with weights and measures.
What is Legal Metrology?
Legal Metrology means the part of metrology (science of measurement) that deals with laws and regulations. It ensures that measuring instruments like weighing machines, petrol pumps, thermometers, and measuring tapes are accurate and used correctly.
The Legal Metrology Act, 2009, governs this system in India. It controls the sale, manufacture, and use of weights and measures, and the packaging of goods.
Why Is Legal Metrology Registration Mandatory?
Legal Metrology registration helps in keeping trade fair. When you buy 1 kilogram of rice, you expect it to weigh exactly 1 kg. Registered weighing machines are tested and sealed by the Legal Metrology Department, so they give accurate results. This avoids cheating.
Consumers have the right to get what they pay for. If a product says it is 1 liter, it should contain 1 liter. Legal Metrology makes sure that all pre-packaged goods show the correct weight, quantity, and price on the label. This is ensured through LMPC certificate registration.
Businesses that follow legal rules build trust. When a manufacturer or seller follows Legal Metrology Certificate Registration, it shows that they care about quality and honesty. This improves their brand image and customer loyalty.
Without proper registration, a business can face penalties, fines, or even imprisonment under the Legal Metrology Act. To avoid such issues, it is important to get all the required licenses like the Legal Metrology Manufacturer License and Weight and Measurement Certificate Registration.
Types of Legal Metrology Registrations
Let’s look at the common registrations needed under Legal Metrology in India:
This certificate is needed by businesses that make, sell, or use measuring instruments. It shows that the business follows all Legal Metrology rules and uses approved weights and measuring tools.
Any company or individual that manufactures weights, measures, or measuring instruments must get this license. This ensures that their products are made according to the set standards.
This license is granted by the Controller of Legal Metrology in the respective state. It is valid for a certain period and needs renewal before it expires.
If a company deals with pre-packaged goods, it must get an LMPC certificate. Pre-packaged goods are items packed without the buyer being present, such as soap, food items, cosmetics, etc.
The LMPC certificate ensures that every package shows important details like:
This helps consumers make informed decisions.
This certificate is required for anyone who uses weighing or measuring devices in trade. It certifies that the equipment used is tested and sealed by the Legal Metrology Department. This ensures the instruments are accurate and reliable.
Who Should Apply for Legal Metrology Registration?
The following types of businesses must apply for Legal Metrology registration:
How to Apply for Legal Metrology Registration?
The application process depends on the type of certificate needed. However, the general process includes:
You may also take the help of legal experts or consultants to simplify the process.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Legal Metrology Registration is not just a legal formality—it is an essential part of doing honest business in India. Whether you are a manufacturer, importer, or trader, you must follow the rules laid out under the Legal Metrology Act. It protects your business, builds customer trust, and keeps you safe from penalties.
With proper Legal Metrology Certificate Registration, LMPC Certificate Registration, Legal Metrology Manufacturer License, and Weight and Measurement Certificate Registration, your business is legally secure and ready for smooth operations.
Stay compliant, stay honest, and let your business grow with trust and transparency.
Starting a financial services business in India can be a smart decision. But before you begin, one of the most important steps is understanding when to apply for NBFC registration in India. Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) play a big role in supporting people and businesses by offering loans, investment options, and other financial services.
However, applying for NBFC registration in India at the right time is just as important as the registration itself. This blog will help you understand when it's the right time to apply, and also explain different types of NBFC licenses like the Account Aggregator License, P2P Lending License in India, and PPI License in India.
What Is NBFC Registration?
An NBFC is a company that provides financial services similar to a bank but does not hold a banking license. These companies offer services such as:
To offer such services legally in India, a company must get registered as an NBFC with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
Why Timing Matters
Timing is everything in business. If you apply too early for NBFC registration, you might not have the required documents or capital ready. If you apply too late, you could miss out on good opportunities or face legal issues.
So, when is the right time?
Let’s break it down.
Right Time to Apply for NBFC Registration in India
Before applying for NBFC registration, make sure you have a clear business plan. This should include:
Having a strong business plan shows the RBI that you are serious about your business. It also helps you stay focused.
To register as an NBFC, you need a minimum Net Owned Fund (NOF) of ₹2 crore (for most NBFCs). For specialized NBFCs like Account Aggregators, P2P Lending, or PPI License, capital requirements may vary.
Make sure the capital is in your company’s bank account and not just on paper. RBI checks all documents strictly.
You can only apply for NBFC registration if your company is already registered under the Companies Act, 2013. This means you must first register your business as a Private Limited Company or Public Limited Company.
Once that’s done, you can move on to getting your NBFC license.
RBI has laid out strict rules for NBFC registration. You must:
If you already meet these conditions, then it’s a good time to apply.
Different Types of NBFC Licenses in India
Depending on your business model, you may apply for one of these specific NBFC licenses:
An Account Aggregator (AA) collects financial data from different financial institutions and shares it (with customer consent) with other companies like banks and insurers.
You should apply for an Account Aggregator license when:
P2P (Peer-to-Peer) lending platforms connect lenders and borrowers directly. The company earns by charging a small fee.
You should apply for a P2P Lending License in India when:
PPI stands for Prepaid Payment Instruments. These are tools like mobile wallets, prepaid cards, or gift cards.
You should apply for a PPI License in India when:
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even if your timing is right, you need to avoid these mistakes:
Taking help from professionals who understand RBI procedures can save you time and prevent delays.
Conclusion
Applying for NBFC registration in India is a big step and should be done at the right time. Wait until you have:
Also, choose the right license based on your services — whether it’s an Account Aggregator license, a P2P lending license in India, or a PPI license in India.
Starting your NBFC at the right time helps you avoid legal problems, gain investor trust, and grow your business faster. If you're ready and confident, the best time to apply is now.
Toys are a big part of every child's life. They bring joy, help children learn, and keep them entertained. But toys must also be safe. Unsafe toys can harm children and cause accidents. That is why the government of India has made BIS Certification for Toys mandatory. This certification helps ensure that toys sold in India are safe for children to use.
In this blog, we will explain how BIS Certification helps maintain safety in the toy industry, what the certification process includes, and why manufacturers need to get certified.
What Is BIS Certification?
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the national standards body of India. It works under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs. BIS sets quality and safety standards for different products, including toys. When a toy gets a BIS certification, it means the toy meets the safety and quality standards set by BIS.
There are different types of BIS registration, such as:
For toys, ISI Mark Registration in India is mandatory. Without the ISI mark, toys cannot be sold in the Indian market.
Why Is BIS Certification for Toys Important?
Children are sensitive. Their toys should be free from harmful chemicals, sharp edges, or small parts that can cause choking. Many times, low-quality toys made from poor materials can lead to health risks or accidents.
Here’s how BIS Certification for Toys helps:
What Is ISI Mark Registration in India?
The ISI Mark is a symbol of quality and safety. It shows that a product has been tested and certified by BIS. For toys, having an ISI mark is compulsory under Indian law.
The ISI mark on toys means:
Without an ISI mark, toys are considered illegal in India. Whether the toy is made in India or imported, it must have the ISI mark.
BIS Registration in India: Process for Toy Manufacturers
Toy manufacturers, whether Indian or foreign, must follow the BIS Registration in India process to get certified. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Manufacturers must apply online on the BIS portal. They need to fill in details about the company, product, and manufacturing unit.
The toys are sent to a BIS-recognized lab for testing. The lab checks the toy’s quality, safety, material, strength, and other factors.
A BIS officer visits the factory to see how toys are being made. They inspect machines, raw materials, and quality control systems.
If everything meets BIS standards, a license is issued, and the manufacturer can put the ISI mark on their toys.
Even after certification, BIS can do random checks to make sure the toy quality is still good.
BIS CRS Certification in India: For Electronic Toys
Many toys today are battery-operated or electronic. These toys need BIS CRS Certification in India under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS).
Under CRS:
So, electronic toys need both ISI and CRS certifications if applicable.
Rules for Importers
Not just Indian companies, but even foreign toy brands need BIS Certification for Toys if they want to sell in India. They must:
This rule helps prevent low-quality, unsafe toys from entering the Indian market.
Penalty for Non-Compliance
If a toy is sold in India without BIS certification or ISI mark:
So, it's important for everyone in the toy business to follow BIS rules.
Conclusion
Toys should bring happiness, not harm, to children. BIS Certification for Toys plays a key role in ensuring this. By making ISI Mark Registration in India mandatory, the government protects children from unsafe and poor-quality toys.
Whether you are a toy manufacturer, importer, or seller, getting BIS Registration in India is not just a legal need—it is your responsibility. If your toy has BIS CRS Certification in India and an ISI mark, parents will trust your product more, and children will enjoy their toys safely.
Looking for help with BIS Certification for Toys?
Get in touch with our Corpbiz experts today to simplify the process of BIS Registration in India and ensure your toys meet all safety standards.