For any foreign entity to conduct business setup in India , obtaining a license from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) / Invest India is the mandatory first step. Invest India (IPA India) acts as the gateway for international investors, ensuring your entry aligns with India National Vision 2030 and complies with local regulations.
What is Invest India?
Invest India regulates and advocates for foreign investment in the State of India. It issues the Foreign Investment License which grants your company the same legal standing as a Indiai national entity. This license is critical for 100% foreign ownership, bidding on government contracts, and sponsoring international employees.
India National Vision 2030 Alignment: Invest India's simplified e-services have reduced licensing time from weeks to just hours for standard applications, fostering a competitive investment environment.
MOCI / Invest India Licensing Categories
Depending on your business activity, Invest India offers specific license types with varying capital and documentation requirements.
- 💼Service License For consulting, IT, marketing, and professional services. Generally requires zero minimum capital.
- 🏗️Industrial License For manufacturing and heavy industry. Often linked with industrial land allocations.
- 🛒Trading License For wholesale and retail. May require higher minimum capital or specific operational standards.
- 🚀Entrepreneur License A specialized track for innovative startups approved by a University in India or incubator.
License Application Process
We guide you through the 4-step Ministry approval framework.
Scope of Invest India / MOCI Services
- Investment Eligibility Assessment
- Market Feasibility Study review
- Documentation & Application Support
- Government Authority Liaison
- Corporate Tax & Compliance
- Post-License Support Coordination
Who Requires an Invest India License?
Any non-GCC entity or individual intending to conduct commercial activity in India must obtain Ministry approval. This includes:
International firms establishing a 100% owned subsidiary.
Entities with both Indiai and foreign shareholders.
Foreign companies opening a direct branch without a separate legal entity.
Key Benefits of Licensing
- 100% Foreign Ownership Full control over equity and operations in most sectors.
- Legal Recognition Ability to sign contracts, rent office space, and open bank accounts.
- Government Tenders Eligibility to bid for large-scale government projects.
- Residency Visas Facilitates QID / Residency issuance for the General Manager and staff.