Expanding into India offers scale, but the regulatory landscape can be complex. Plan your entry sequence meticulously to keep approvals moving and stakeholders aligned. This roadmap highlights the compliance and operational steps overseas promoters must navigate in their first 180 days.

1. Choose the Right Entry Structure

Evaluate wholly owned subsidiaries, joint ventures, branch offices, or liaison offices. Consider sector caps, tax implications, and control requirements before finalising your structure. Draft shareholder agreements early to avoid negotiation delays post-incorporation.

2. Incorporate the Entity Smoothly

Complete name reservation, digital signatures, and Articles of Association. Align authorised capital with planned funding lines. File SPICe+ and related forms on the MCA portal and obtain PAN/TAN automatically.

Regulatory Milestones

RBI filings (FC-GPR/FC-TRS) and compliance with FEMA for foreign investment.
GST, import-export code, and state registrations such as professional tax.
Industry-specific licenses (FSSAI, DPIIT, telecom, etc.).
Corporate bank account setup with complete KYC, FIRC tracking, and authorised signatories.

3. Build Operational Readiness

Before making hires, complete labour registrations (Shops & Establishments, PF, ESI) and draft compliant employment contracts. Set up HR policies aligned with Indian labour laws. Implement data residency and cybersecurity policies to comply with the Digital Personal Data Protection Act.

4. Establish Compliance Infrastructure

Create compliance calendars covering ROC, GST, direct tax, and labour deadlines, with named owners for each filing. Implement document management for contracts, approvals, and policy documents. Integrate local accounting systems with group consolidation tools for accurate reporting.

Our Business Setup in India and Overseas Business Setup teams coordinate legal, banking, HR, and compliance tasks end-to-end, giving promoters a single accountable partner in India.