By Ahlawat and Associates

Setting up a business in India has become more accessible than ever, thanks to digital incorporation systems, relaxed FDI policies, and expert legal support. Whether you’re in the USA, UAE, or Russia, this 2025 guide will walk you through exactly how to setup a company in India without ever setting foot in the country.

Ahlawat and Associates, one of India’s leading corporate law firms, helps foreign nationals navigate the legal process and compliance with ease. This listicle answers the most important questions and outlines the steps every global entrepreneur must follow.

1. Choose the Right Legal Entity

Before anything else, determine the right legal structure. Common options include:

• Private Limited Company (PLC)
• Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
• Branch Office or Liaison Office

Each structure has different tax implications and compliance requirements. If you’re wondering how to start a business in India, this choice is foundational. Ahlawat and Associates can help you decide what’s most suitable based on your market entry strategy.

2. Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) and Director Identification Number (DIN)

Foreign directors must acquire a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) and a Director Identification Number (DIN). These are mandatory for signing incorporation documents online.

If you’re in the USA, UAE, or Russia, this process can be completed digitally through certified agencies. Our team at Ahlawat and Associates assists with document notarization, apostille, and submission on your behalf.

3. Reserve Your Company Name

Next, apply to the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) to reserve your company name. You can submit up to two preferred names in one application.

When asking how to setup a company in India remotely, this step is often overlooked but critical for branding and avoiding name rejection.

4. Submit Incorporation Documents Digitally

All incorporation forms, including the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA), are filed online. As a foreign national, you’ll need to provide:

• Certified passport copies
• Proof of overseas address
• Visa or resident permit (depending on structure)

If you’re asking how to start a business in India without visiting, this is where remote legal services like Ahlawat and Associates prove invaluable.

5. Register for a PAN and TAN

Your company will need a Permanent Account Number (PAN) and a Tax Deduction Account Number (TAN) for tax compliance.

These documents are required to open a business bank account and file tax returns in India. Our firm handles the complete application process for foreign clients.

6. Open an Indian Business Bank Account

An operational corporate bank account is essential. Most Indian banks now allow remote account opening for foreign directors, provided documents are notarized and apostilled.

If you’re unsure how to setup a company in India from overseas, this step may feel daunting — but Ahlawat and Associates simplifies this by coordinating directly with banks.

7. Capital Infusion and Share Allocation

Foreign investors must inject the required capital into the company’s bank account within a specified timeline. This is regulated under India’s Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA).

Filing of Form FC-GPR (for foreign currency share allotment) is a must. Non-compliance here can lead to penalties. Let our experts handle this to keep you compliant.

8. Obtain Industry-Specific Licenses

Some industries require additional licenses such as:

• FSSAI (Food & Beverage)
• IEC (Import Export Code)
• SEBI (Financial Markets)

Knowing how to start a business in India also means being aware of these additional obligations. Ahlawat and Associates ensures you have all the necessary clearances from day one.

9. GST and Other Tax Registrations

If your company crosses the taxable turnover threshold, GST registration is mandatory. Additionally, you may require:

• Professional Tax Registration
• Shops & Establishments Registration (if applicable)

Handling multiple tax registrations from abroad can be complex — our firm ensures all paperwork is filed accurately and promptly.

10. Ongoing Legal & Financial Compliance

Once incorporated, your company will need to maintain compliance with:

• Annual ROC filings
• Statutory audits
• Board meetings and documentation
• Income tax and GST filings

The key to knowing how to setup a company in India from abroad is building a long-term compliance strategy. Our retainer services cover all annual requirements so you can focus on growth.

Final Thoughts

In 2025, it’s entirely possible to start a business in India from anywhere in the world. With a streamlined digital process and the right legal partner, you don’t need to travel or deal with red tape.

Ahlawat and Associates has helped hundreds of clients from the USA, UAE, Russia, and beyond with how to setup a company in India — comprehensively and remotely.

📞 Contact us today for a FREE consultation.
📱 WhatsApp: +91–7428899979
🔗 Visit: https://www.ahlawatassociates.com/setting-business-india