Know the eligibility rules for Startup India Registration, including turnover limit, entity type, and innovation criteria for DPIIT approval.
India has become one of the top destinations for startups, with government support playing a major role. The Startup India initiative, launched in 2016, aims to promote innovation, ease of doing business, and access to funding. However, to benefit from this scheme, a business must meet specific eligibility conditions and complete the Startup India Registration process through the DPIIT (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade).
This blog explains the key eligibility criteria for Startup India Registration, including company structure, age, turnover limits, and innovation requirements.
To be eligible for Startup India Registration, your business must be registered as one of the following:
Private Limited Company under the Companies Act, 2013
Limited Liability Partnership under the LLP Act, 2008
Registered Partnership Firm under the Indian Partnership Act, 1932
In addition to the business structure, the company should be less than 10 years old from the date of incorporation. Any entity older than 10 years is not eligible to apply under the Startup India scheme.
The company’s annual turnover should not have exceeded ₹100 crore in any financial year since its registration. If the turnover crosses this amount even once, the business will no longer qualify for Startup India Registration, regardless of its age or nature of work.
The business must not have been formed by splitting or reconstructing an existing entity. Only original businesses working on a new idea or process are considered. This ensures that only genuinely innovative and growth-oriented startups benefit from the scheme.
An important requirement for Startup India Registration is that the entity must be engaged in:
Innovation or improvement of a product, process, or service, or
A scalable business model with high potential for job creation and wealth generation
During the DPIIT application, businesses are required to submit a brief note about their innovation and explain how it adds value to the market. Companies engaged in routine trading or reselling without unique elements may not qualify.
To complete Startup India Registration, follow these steps:
Register your business under the appropriate legal structure.
Create a profile on the Startup India portal (startupindia.gov.in).
Fill out the DPIIT recognition application.
Upload necessary documents, including:
Certificate of incorporation
Company PAN
Business description and innovation details
Submit the form and wait for DPIIT approval.
Once approved, you will receive a DPIIT recognition certificate, which opens the door to various benefits.
After successful Startup India Registration, startups can avail:
Income tax exemption for 3 consecutive years
Exemption from angel tax under Section 56(2)(viib)
Fast-tracked patent and trademark applications
Access to government tenders and funding support
Self-certification under 6 labor and 3 environmental laws
These benefits can significantly reduce operational costs and boost credibility among investors and clients.
Startup India Registration offers early-stage businesses a competitive edge by providing financial, legal, and regulatory support. However, meeting the eligibility criteria is essential. Ensuring your business fits the age, turnover, innovation, and entity type requirements will increase your chances of recognition.
If you’re building an innovative, scalable business and looking for long-term growth, completing Startup India Registration can be a smart first step toward success. Be sure to prepare accurate documents and clearly explain your business model when applying for DPIIT recognition.
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