Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Your questions, answered clearly by Easyfilings.
What is Startup India registration?
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Startup India registration, also known as DPIIT recognition, is a government initiative that supports new and innovative businesses in India. Once registered, startups get benefits like tax exemptions, funding support, and easy compliance under the Startup India Scheme.
What is DPIIT, and why is it crucial for startups?
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DPIIT (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade) is the government body that grants official startup recognition. It's crucial because DPIIT recognition unlocks tax benefits, funding access, simplified compliance, and government tender opportunities.
How do I register my startup under the Startup India scheme?
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Visit the Startup India website, create an account, fill the DPIIT recognition form, upload required documents (incorporation certificate, PAN, innovation write-up), submit self-declaration, and wait for approval (7-15 days).
Who can apply for Startup India registration?
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Any Private Limited Company, LLP, or Registered Partnership Firm that is less than 10 years old, has annual turnover below ₹100 crore, and works on innovative/scalable business models can apply.
What documents are required for Startup India registration?
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Required documents include Certificate of Incorporation, company PAN card, business details, director/partner information, innovation description (200-400 words), proof of concept, and self-declaration form.
How long does it take to receive a DPIIT certificate?
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The DPIIT review process typically takes 7-15 working days, though it can extend to 2-4 weeks if clarifications are needed. You'll receive email notifications and can track status on your dashboard.
Is DIPP registered, and is Startup India registration the same?
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DIPP (now DPIIT) is the department that grants recognition. "DIPP registered" and "Startup India registration" refer to the same DPIIT recognition process under the Startup India initiative.
How to check the Startup India company registration status?
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Log in to your Startup India account, go to "My Dashboard," click on "Submitted Applications," and view the status of your DPIIT recognition application.
Can a sole proprietorship apply for DPIIT recognition?
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No, sole proprietorships are not eligible. Only Private Limited Companies, LLPs, and Registered Partnership Firms can apply for DPIIT recognition under Startup India.
What is the ₹20 lakh grant for startups in India?
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The Startup India Seed Fund Scheme provides financial assistance up to ₹20 lakh for proof of concept and ₹50 lakh for prototype development to eligible DPIIT-recognized startups in their early stages.
Who is eligible for a Startup India certificate?
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Companies/LLPs/Partnership Firms that are less than 10 years old, have turnover below ₹100 crore, work on innovative solutions, and are not formed by splitting existing businesses are eligible.
What kind of business structure should I choose for my startup?
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Private Limited Company is most popular for funding and scalability. LLP offers flexibility with lower compliance. Partnership Firm is simpler but has unlimited liability. Choose based on your funding needs and growth plans.
For how long is a company recognized as a startup?
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A company is recognized as a startup for up to 10 years from its date of incorporation, as long as its annual turnover doesn't exceed ₹100 crore in any financial year.
Can an existing company apply for Startup India registration?
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Yes, if the company is less than 10 years old, has turnover below ₹100 crore, and meets innovation criteria. However, companies formed by splitting existing businesses are not eligible.
Can I do the Startup India registration online?
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Yes, the entire Startup India registration process is completely online through the official Startup India portal (www.startupindia.gov.in). No physical visits are required.
How much does Startup India registration cost?
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Startup India registration (DPIIT recognition) is completely FREE. However, you need to first incorporate your business (₹6,000-₹20,000 depending on structure) and may incur professional consultancy fees if you hire experts.
Is Startup India registration mandatory for startups?
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No, it's optional. However, without DPIIT recognition, you cannot access tax exemptions, government funding schemes, simplified compliance, fast-track patents, or priority in government tenders.
Which authority grants Startup India Registration?
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The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, grants Startup India recognition.
How long does the Startup India Registration process take?
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The application process takes 30 minutes to 1 hour. DPIIT review typically takes 7-15 working days, though it may extend to 2-4 weeks if additional clarifications are requested.
What happens if my startup doesn't get registered?
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You'll miss out on tax benefits, government funding, simplified compliance, fast-track patents, and priority in tenders. You can reapply after addressing the rejection reasons provided by DPIIT.
Can I update my Startup India Registration details after approval?
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Yes, you can update details like registered address, directors, business activities, and contact information through your Startup India dashboard anytime without losing your recognition.
What are the key benefits of Startup India Registration?
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Key benefits include 3-year income tax exemption, access to funding schemes, 80% rebate on patent fees, self-certification for compliance, priority in government tenders, and networking with investors and mentors.
Do I need to renew my Startup India Registration certificate?
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No renewal is required. The recognition is valid for 10 years from incorporation or until your turnover exceeds ₹100 crore, whichever comes first.
Can my Startup India Registration be transferred to another business?
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No, Startup India recognition is entity-specific and cannot be transferred. Each business must apply separately for DPIIT recognition.
Can foreign-owned startups apply for DPIIT recognition?
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Yes, foreign-owned startups incorporated in India as Private Limited, LLP, or Partnership Firm can apply, provided they meet all eligibility criteria including age and turnover limits.
Can I apply for other government schemes with my Startup India Registration?
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Yes, DPIIT recognition makes you eligible for Startup India Seed Fund, Fund of Funds, Credit Guarantee Scheme, and various state-level startup schemes and incentives.
Does Startup India Registration help with intellectual property rights?
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Yes, DPIIT-recognized startups get 80% rebate on patent filing fees, 50% rebate on trademark fees, and fast-track examination of patent applications, significantly reducing IP protection costs and time.
How do I write the "innovation write-up" for Startup India?
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Write 200-400 words explaining: (1) What problem you solve, (2) Your unique solution/innovation, (3) How it's different from existing solutions, (4) Scalability potential. Be specific, avoid generic statements, and focus on your unique value proposition.
