Overview
What is Startup India Registration?
Startup India is a flagship initiative of the Government of India launched in January 2016 to promote entrepreneurship and support startups. A startup that meets the eligibility criteria can apply to DPIIT (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade) for official recognition.
DPIIT recognition is not just a certificate — it opens the door to a comprehensive package of tax exemptions, reduced compliance, IPR protection, funding support, and preferential treatment in government procurement. Over 1,40,000 startups have been recognized so far.
Expert Tip
Our CA team evaluates your specific business needs, state regulations, and long-term goals to recommend the most suitable option — saving you time and costly mistakes. Book a free 30-minute consultation before you apply.
Benefits
Key Benefits of Startup India Registration
Here are the most important advantages you unlock by completing this registration with Tax Gyani's expert assistance.
3-Year Tax Exemption
100% income tax exemption for any 3 consecutive years under Section 80-IAC.
Angel Tax Exemption
Exempt from Section 56(2)(viib) — raise funding from investors at any valuation.
IPR Fast-Track
Trademark and patent applications fast-tracked with 80% rebate on filing fees.
Govt. Procurement
Exempted from prior experience criteria in government procurement tenders.
SEBI Fund Access
Access to SEBI-registered Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) specifically for startups.
Self-Certification Compliance
Self-certify compliance with 9 labor laws and 3 environmental laws for 3–5 years.
Documents Required
Documents Required for Startup India Registration
Keep these documents ready to ensure a smooth and fast registration process. Our team will guide you through each requirement.
Certificate of Incorporation / Registration
Brief description of business & innovation
Patent / Trademark certificate (if any)
Pitch deck or product demo link (optional)
Website URL (if available)
Letter of recommendation (optional for certain categories)
Document Support
Not sure if your documents qualify? Share them with us and our experts will verify eligibility before you apply — completely free of charge.
Registration Process
Step-by-Step Process
Our streamlined process ensures minimal effort from your side. We handle all paperwork, filings, and follow-ups.
1
Eligibility Check & Consultation
Our expert verifies your startup's eligibility under DPIIT criteria and advises on the right approach.
30 min
2
Create Startup India Profile
We create your profile on startupindia.gov.in and fill in all business details accurately.
1 day
3
Upload Documents & Submit
Required documents uploaded and DPIIT recognition application submitted online.
1 day
4
DPIIT Review & Approval
DPIIT reviews the application. Recognition is usually granted within 2–5 working days.
2–5 days
5
Certificate & Benefits Access
DPIIT Recognition Certificate issued. We guide you on availing all applicable benefits.
1 day
Compliance
Post-Registration Compliance
After your registration is complete, here are the ongoing compliance requirements you need to be aware of to stay legally compliant.
Post-Registration Compliance Checklist
- Annual update of turnover figures on Startup India portal
- Filing of ITR with claimed 80-IAC exemption
- Maintain innovation logs and product development records
- DPIIT recognition must be renewed if criteria change
- GST compliance (if applicable)
- Self-certification of compliance with labor laws
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before applying for Startup India Registration.
What is the eligibility criteria for Startup India recognition?
Your entity must be a Pvt Ltd, LLP, or registered partnership. It must not be more than 10 years old. Annual turnover must not exceed ₹100 crore in any year. The business must be working towards innovation, development, or improvement of products/services.
What is Angel Tax and how does DPIIT recognition help?
Angel Tax (Section 56(2)(viib)) was a tax on excess share premium received by unlisted startups. DPIIT-recognized startups are exempt from Angel Tax, making it easier to raise funding from angel investors at negotiated valuations.
What is the 80-IAC tax exemption for startups?
Under Section 80-IAC, DPIIT-recognized startups can claim 100% deduction on profits for any 3 consecutive years out of their first 10 years of operation. This can result in zero income tax during those years.
Can a foreign-funded startup apply for DPIIT recognition?
Yes. Foreign-funded startups incorporated in India can apply for DPIIT recognition as long as the entity is registered in India (as Pvt Ltd, LLP, or partnership) and meets all eligibility criteria.
Does Startup India recognition expire?
The initial recognition is valid for 10 years from the date of incorporation or until the startup crosses the eligibility thresholds (turnover > ₹100 crore or entity age > 10 years), whichever is earlier.