Branch Office Registration in India with Calzone
Expand Your Business Presence in India with Ease
Introduction
As businesses grow and seek new markets, establishing a branch office in India is an excellent way to expand operations while maintaining a direct presence. A branch office allows a foreign company to conduct business activities in India without setting up a separate legal entity.
At Calzone, we specialize in seamless branch office registration, ensuring that businesses comply with Indian laws and regulatory requirements while enjoying the benefits of an established local presence.
What is a Branch Office?
A branch office is an extension of a foreign company that operates in India under the same name and brand. Unlike a subsidiary, a branch office is not a separate legal entity—it remains connected to its parent company.
Key Features of a Branch Office:
- Operates in the same name as the parent company
- Permitted to conduct similar business activities as the parent company
- Cannot engage in manufacturing or retail trading
- Liabilities of the branch remain with the parent company
- Subject to Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) regulations
Calzone ensures that your branch office setup aligns with Indian regulations and industry standards.
Why Register a Branch Office in India?
- Expand Business Presence - Establish a direct footprint in India while staying connected to the parent company.
- Tax & Regulatory Benefits - A branch office can operate legally, access financial services, and enter contracts.
- Access to Indian Markets - Leverage India's growing consumer base and business ecosystem.
- Ease of Business Operations - Conduct commercial activities, technical services, and liaison work efficiently.
- Brand Recognition - Operate under the same name as the parent company, strengthening brand value.
Calzone ensures that your branch office complies with RBI and MCA guidelines while offering hassle-free setup services.
Permitted Activities for a Branch Office in India
A branch office in India is allowed to conduct the following activities:
- Market Research & Promotional Activities - Conduct surveys and explore business opportunities.
- Technical & Consultancy Services - Offer expertise in engineering, IT, finance, and consulting sectors.
- Import & Export of Goods - Engage in global trade while managing local operations.
- Liaison Work - Act as a point of contact for parent company dealings.
- Financial & Investment Support - Assist in managing parent company investments in India.
Not Allowed:
- Cannot engage in manufacturing or retail trading in India.
- Cannot undertake direct revenue-generating business without RBI approval.
Calzone ensures your branch operates legally and efficiently under Indian regulations.
Taxation for a Branch Office in India
A branch office in India is considered a foreign entity, and its profits are taxed at 40% plus applicable surcharges and cess.
Additional Taxes & Compliances:
- GST Registration - Required if turnover exceeds the threshold limit.
- Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number (TAN) - For withholding tax.
- Annual Income Tax Filing - Comply with Indian tax laws and reporting requirements.
Calzone offers complete tax advisory services to help optimize compliance and minimize liabilities.
Annual Compliance Requirements for a Branch Office
Mandatory Filings:
- Annual Activity Certificate (AAC) - Certified by a Chartered Accountant, submitted to RBI.
- Audited Financial Statements - Filing with Registrar of Companies (RoC).
- Income Tax & GST Returns - Compliance with Indian tax regulations.
- Regulatory Reporting - Any changes in branch structure must be reported to RBI & MCA.
Calzone ensures seamless compliance, avoiding penalties and regulatory issues.
Documents Required for Branch Office Registration
From the Parent Company:
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Memorandum of Association (MoA) & Articles of Association (AoA)
- List of Directors & Key Executives
- Details of Shareholders
- Audited Financial Statements
- Banker's Report from Home Country
For Indian Branch Office Address:
- Utility Bills (Electricity, Water, Telephone)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Property Owner
- Rental Agreement (if applicable)
For Appointed Representatives in India:
- Passport Copies
- Valid Business Visa
- Address Proof (Utility Bills, Bank Statements)
Calzone simplifies document processing, ensuring a smooth approval process.
Step-by-Step Process for Branch Office Registration in India
- Step 1: Filing Application with RBI (via AD Bank)
- Submit Form FNC and necessary documents to an Authorized Dealer (AD) Bank.
- AD Bank verifies documents and grants preliminary approval.
- Step 2: RBI Approval & Unique Identification Number (UIN)
- The AD Bank forwards the application to RBI for UIN allocation.
- Upon approval, the branch office gets formal registration.
- Step 3: Register with Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA)
- File Form FC-1 with MCA within 30 days of RBI approval.
- Obtain Director Identification Number (DIN) and Digital Signature Certificate (DSC).
- Step 4: Tax & Financial Setup
- Apply for Permanent Account Number (PAN) & Tax Deduction Account Number (TAN).
- Open a corporate bank account for branch transactions.
- Step 5: Import-Export Compliance (If Applicable)
- Obtain Import-Export Code (IEC) if involved in international trade.
Calzone manages the entire process, ensuring quick approvals and smooth operations.
Why Choose Calzone for Branch Office Registration?
- Expert Regulatory Compliance - We ensure 100% compliance with RBI, MCA, and tax regulations.
- Faster Processing & Documentation - No delays, no errors—just smooth approvals.
- End-to-End Assistance - From registration to annual compliance, we handle everything.
- Foreign Business Support - We specialize in helping international companies enter the Indian market.
- Transparent & Affordable Pricing - No hidden fees, just cost-effective solutions.