How to register your startup in Startup India Certificate?
June 30, 2025
India has emerged as one of the fastest-growing startup ecosystems in the world. To nurture this entrepreneurial wave, the Government of India launched the Startup India Initiative in 2016. If you’re an aspiring founder, getting your Startup India Certificate is one of the first crucial steps to unlock a host of benefits from tax exemptions to funding opportunities like the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme.
In this blog, you’ll learn what the Startup India Certificate is, its benefits, eligibility criteria, required documents, who can apply, and how long it takes to get certified.
What is the Startup India Certificate?
The Startup India Certificate of Recognition is an official certificate issued by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Government of India. It recognizes your business as a ‘Startup’ under the Startup India scheme.
Benefits of the Startup India Certificate:
- Access to government schemes like the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme.
- Eligibility for income tax exemption for 3 consecutive years under section 80 IAC.
- Fast-tracking of patent applications with up to 80% rebate on filing fees.
- Easier access to funding, incubation centers, and networking opportunities.
- Relaxed norms for public procurement and compliance.
Who is Eligible for the Startup India Certificate?
Before you apply, check if you meet the eligibility criteria defined by DPIIT:
1) Your Business Must Be a Private Limited Company, LLP or Partnership Firm:
It must be registered under the Companies Act, 2013, the LLP Act, 2008, or as a partnership under the Partnership Act, 1932.
2) Age of the Entity:
Your business must be less than 10 years old from the date of incorporation.
3) Annual Turnover Limit:
The turnover must not have exceeded ₹100 crore in any financial year since incorporation.
4) Innovation or Improvement:
Your business must be working towards innovation, development, or improvement of products or services, or should be a scalable business model with a high potential for employment generation or wealth creation.
5) Not Formed by Splitting or Reconstruction:
Your company should not be formed by splitting up or reconstructing an existing business.
Documents Required for Startup India Registration
Keep the following documents ready to ensure a smooth application process:
Certificate of Incorporation / Registration — Issued by MCA (for Pvt. Ltd.) or ROC.
PAN Card — Of the entity.
Details of the Directors / Partners — Identity proof and address proof.
Brief Description of the Business — Explain how your startup is working on innovation or improvement. This can be in a pitch deck, video, or website link.
Proof of Concept (if any) — Website link, pitch deck, patents (if applicable), or funding proof.
Authorization Letter — If an authorized representative is applying.
Contact Details — Email and mobile number.
Timeline: How Long Does It Take to Get the Startup India Certificate?
Once you submit your application with all required documents on the Startup India portal, the DPIIT generally takes 7–10 working days to process it.
If everything is in order, you’ll receive a digitally signed Certificate of Recognition on your registered email. Sometimes, DPIIT might ask for additional clarification or documents — in that case, the process might take up to 2–3 weeks.
So, make sure your documents are clear and your pitch explains your innovation clearly to avoid delays.
How consultup India Helps Your Startup?
Getting your Startup India Certificate is a must if you want to benefit from government schemes like the Startup India Seed Fund, tax exemptions, and easier compliance. A recognized startup status not only builds trust with investors but also helps you stand out in India’s competitive startup ecosystem.
If you have any questions or need help registering your startup, feel free to reach out to professionals or consultants who specialize in Startup India registration. A small step today can open doors to bigger opportunities tomorrow!
