Indian Subsidiary Registration

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What is an Indian Subsidiary?

An Indian Subsidiary is an entity whose interests are controlled by another company, known as the parent or holding company, which is incorporated outside India. Under the Companies Act, 2013, an Indian Subsidiary is treated as a separate legal entity from its foreign parent company.

It is one of the most preferred entry strategies for foreign investors because it allows for full management control and participation in the Indian market while enjoying the same privileges as any other Indian company. The process involves coordinating between the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

Table of Contents

Advantages of Setting Up a Subsidiary

  • 100% Foreign Ownership

    In most sectors, foreign entities can own 100% of the equity in an Indian subsidiary under the automatic route, without requiring prior government approval.

  • Limited Liability Protection

    The liability of the parent company is limited to the extent of its shareholding in the Indian subsidiary, protecting the global assets from Indian operational risks.

  • Strategic Market Entry

    Establishing a subsidiary allows global brands to have a permanent presence in one of the world's fastest-growing economies with a dedicated local management team.

  • Double Taxation Benefits

    India has signed the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) with over 80 countries, providing significant tax relief on dividends and repatriated profits.

Eligibility Criteria

01Minimum Two Directors
02One Resident Indian Director
03Minimum Two Shareholders

Subsidiary Requirements

Valid Registered Office in India04
FC-GPR Filing Compliance05
MOA & AOA Attestation06

Documents Required

  • Apostilled / Legalized ID and Address proof of Foreign Directors
  • Certificate of Incorporation of the Parent Company
  • Board Resolution from Parent Company authorizing investment
  • Passport-size photographs of all proposed Directors
  • Proof of Indian Registered Office (Rent Agreement/Utility Bill)
  • NOC from the landlord of the premises
  • Digital Signature Certificates (DSC) of all Directors

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, a foreign individual can be a director. However, at least one director on the board must be an Indian citizen and a resident of India.
There is no minimum paid-up capital requirement for a Private Limited Company (which is the most common form for a subsidiary) under the Companies Act, 2013.
Typically, it takes 15 to 25 working days, depending on the speed of document legalization in the parent company's home country and ROC approval.
For most sectors, no prior approval is needed under the 'Automatic Route'. However, the company must file an online report (FC-GPR) within 30 days of issuing shares.

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