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A Branch Office in India

With expert support starting at  just INR 2,00,000/- only.

Ebizfiling helps foreign companies register a Branch Office in India with RBI and MCA approvals, banking setup, and complete compliance support.

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Forming a Branch Office in India by Foreign Company

About Our Service   

A Branch Office in India allows a foreign company to carry out business activities such as import, export, consultancy, and research without creating a separate legal entity. It operates as an extension of the parent company and is regulated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).

For any foreign company planning to expand into India, branch office registration is one of the easiest entry options. It enables companies to represent their brand, handle client contracts, and manage operations in India while maintaining full control from the home country.

At Ebizfiling, we assist you in obtaining RBI approval, registering with the MCA, opening a local bank account, and managing compliance so your branch can start operating smoothly.

How Can a Foreign Company Start a Branch in India

Types of companies that can be registered as the Branch Office in India:  

  • Private Limited Company

  • One Person Company

  • Limited Liability Partnership

  • Public Limited Company

Why Open a Branch Office in India?  

  • Enables foreign companies to expand into India legally.

  • Provides access to one of the world’s fastest-growing markets.

  • Allows import, export, consultancy, and professional services.

  • Operates under full control of the parent company.

  • Builds brand recognition and credibility in India.

  • Simplifies tax and compliance under RBI supervision.

Why Choose Ebizfiling?  

Ebizfiling simplifies branch office registration by handling every step — from RBI approval to incorporation and compliance filing. Our experts guide foreign companies through the documentation, verification, and local setup process. With years of experience assisting global clients, we ensure quick processing, transparent pricing, and dedicated post-registration support. We provide expert services on PAN Application and GST Registrations.

For consultation, reach us at  09643203209 or write to us info@ebizfiling.com.

Branch Office Registration in India Fees

Choose your Package

ESSENTIAL

200000/-

(All Inclusive)

  • Branch set up in Delhi
  • Obtaining RBI Permission
  • Filing forms with MCA
  • PAN of the Branch Office
  • Bank account opening assistance

Criteria for Opening Branch Office in India

Points to make your decision easy

Profitable Track Record

The foreign company must have a proven record of earning consistent profits for at least the last five financial years.

Minimum Net Worth

A net worth of USD 100,000 or more must be shown in the latest audited financial statements of the company.

Certified Financials

The company’s financial statements should be certified by a CPA or any registered accounting professional.

Funding Responsibility

All operational and setup expenses in India must be fully supported by the foreign parent company if required.

Entity Type Restriction

Proprietorships or unincorporated business entities abroad are not permitted to establish branch offices in India.

Prohibited Activities

Branch offices in India cannot carry out retail trading, manufacturing, or processing activities, directly or indirectly.

Name Consistency

The registered name of the branch office in India must be identical to the parent company’s legal name abroad.

Regulatory Approvals

Prior approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is mandatory before filing for registration with the MCA

Documents for Branch Office Registration in India 

 1. Documents Required for RBI Approval 

  • Form FNC – 1 (3 copies)

  • Letter from the Principal Officer of the Parent Company to the RBI.

  • Comfort Letter from the Parent Company confirming financial support.

  • Resolution/Letter of Authority for setting up the BO.

  • Letter of Authority for the Local Representative.

  • Certificate of Incorporation, MOA & AOA of the Parent Company (Notarized/Apostilled).

  • Audited Financial Statements/Annual Accounts of the Parent Company (for the last 3 years, Notarized/Apostilled).

  • Details of Banker(s) of the Parent Company (with bank account number).

  • Banker’s Report showing the duration of banking relations.

  • Details of the Activity carried out in the Home Country.

  • Proof of Identity & Address of all Directors.

  • Expected Funding Level for Indian operations.

  • Resolution for Opening an Indian Bank Account.

2. Documents Required for ROC Intimation (Form FC-1) 

  • RBI’s Permission to establish the Branch Office.

  • Notarized/Consularized Certificate of Incorporation, MOA, and AOA (with English translation, if necessary).

  • Notarized Power of Attorney in favor of a person resident in India (for accepting process/notices).

  • Notarized List of Directors (with personal and directorship particulars).

  • Complete KYC of Shareholders (holding over 10% equity).

  • Notarized extracts of Board Resolutions.

  • Documentary Proof of Office Establishment (e.g., Rent agreement).

  • Certified True Copy of Certificate of change in object/name (if applicable).

  • Crucial Note: All documents originating outside India must be Notarized, Consularised, and Apostilled.

Key Benefits of a Branch Office  

Reputation Boost

Having a branch office builds strong credibility with Indian customers, banks, and authorities, improving the company’s professional image.

Full Control

It remains under complete control of the parent company abroad, allowing consistent decision-making and brand alignment across operations.

Direct Presence in India

A branch office allows a foreign company to operate in India legally without creating a separate legal entity, ensuring direct market access.

Tax Advantages

The branch office is taxed only on income earned within India, helping reduce the overall global tax burden for the parent company.

Operational Flexibility

It can engage in activities such as consultancy, research, and trading, providing greater flexibility to grow business opportunities.

Simplified Setup

The entire registration process is handled through RBI and MCA approvals, making setup and compliance smooth and straightforward.

How to Form a Branch in India?

 

5 simple steps

1

Fill in the simple checklist

2

Application to AD bank

3

Filing with MCA

4

Opening a Bank Account

5

Post Incorporation Registration    

How Ebizfiling Process Helps to Register a Branch Office in India?  

  • Initial Consultation: Our experts first analyze your company’s eligibility and understand your expansion goals before starting the branch office registration process.

  • Document Review: We carefully verify all documents including the parent company’s incorporation papers, financial statements, and authorization letters to ensure accuracy.

  • RBI Approval Application: Our team prepares and files the Form FNC with the Reserve Bank of India to obtain approval for establishing a Branch Office in India.

  • MCA Registration Filing: Once RBI approval is granted, we file the required forms and documents with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) for incorporation.

  • Government Fee Payment: We assist in paying the statutory registration and approval fees to RBI and MCA on your behalf to avoid any delay in processing.

  • Error-Free Submission: Our professionals ensure that all details are correct and documents are properly notarized, certified, and compliant with RBI and MCA norms.

  • Follow-Up with Authorities: We continuously track your application status with both RBI and MCA and provide timely updates until registration is completed.

  • Quick Turnaround: Normally, the entire branch office registration process is completed within 25–40 working days, depending on approval timelines.

  • Post-Registration Assistance: After incorporation, we help you obtain PAN, TAN, and assist in opening your local bank account for business operations.

  • End-to-End Guidance: From eligibility check to RBI/MCA filing and final approval, Ebizfiling manages the entire process for a smooth branch office setup in India.

FAQs

FAQs on Branch Office in India  

Get answers to all your queries

  • What is a Branch Office in India?

    A Branch Office is an extension of a foreign company that carries out permitted business activities such as consultancy, research, or trading in India.

  • Who can open a Branch Office in India?

    Any foreign company with a profitable track record for the last five years and a minimum net worth of USD 100,000 can open a Branch Office in India.

  • Is RBI approval required for a Branch Office?

    Yes, prior approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is mandatory before proceeding with registration under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).

  • What business activities are permitted for a Branch Office?

    It can engage in consultancy, import/export, research, and coordination work but cannot conduct retail trading or manufacturing in India.

  • How long does it take to register a Branch Office in India?

    The complete process usually takes 25–40 working days, depending on RBI and MCA approval timelines.

  • What is the validity of RBI approval for a Branch Office?

    RBI approval is generally valid for three years, after which renewal must be applied for before expiry.

  • Can a Branch Office generate revenue in India?

    Yes, it can earn income from permitted business activities and must pay applicable taxes on such India-sourced earnings.

  • Is a Branch Office considered a separate legal entity?

    No, it is not. It is treated as the same legal entity as its foreign parent company and functions as its extension in India.

  • Can a Branch Office open multiple locations in India?

    Yes, after obtaining additional approvals, a foreign company may establish multiple branches in different Indian cities.

  • What taxes apply to a Branch Office in India?

    Branch offices are taxed as foreign companies in India at applicable corporate tax rates, including surcharge and cess.

  • Can a Branch Office repatriate profits abroad?

    Yes, profits can be repatriated to the parent company after payment of Indian taxes and submission of supporting audit reports.

  • What documents are required to open a Branch Office?

    You need incorporation certificates, charter documents, audited financials, board resolutions, and power of attorney for the authorized representative.

  • Is it necessary to appoint a local representative in India?

    Yes, a local authorized person is required to manage filings, receive communications, and coordinate with regulatory authorities.

  • Can a Branch Office hire employees in India?

    Yes, it can hire local employees and professionals to manage daily operations, subject to Indian labor laws and taxation.

  • What are the annual compliance requirements?

    A Branch Office must file annual activity reports, audited accounts, and income-tax returns with RBI and MCA every year.

  • Can the name of the Branch Office differ from the parent company?

    No, the Indian Branch Office must operate under the same name as the foreign parent company.

  • What is the difference between a Branch Office and a Liaison Office?

    A Branch Office can conduct profit-making activities, whereas a Liaison Office can only carry out communication and coordination work.

  • Can a Branch Office be converted into a subsidiary company?

    Yes, the parent company may later incorporate a Private Limited Company in India and transfer operations from the Branch Office.

  • Is GST registration required for a Branch Office?

    Yes, if the branch is involved in taxable supply of goods or services, GST registration is mandatory under Indian law.

  • How does Ebizfiling help in Branch Office registration?

    Ebizfiling assists in documentation, RBI and MCA approvals, bank account opening, compliance management, and end-to-end guidance for smooth setup.

Reviews

  • Client Review, Ebizfiling

    Ashish Paliwal

    29 Sep 2018

    Let me be honest and tell you that I did not choose eBiz filing after my initial LLP company registration did to pricing. A lot of companies contact me with better rates so I generally choose them. However, I will still rate eBiz filing 10/10 on work ethics. You guys are professionals in true sense.

  • Client Review, Ebizfiling

    Dhruvi Agarwal

    27 Feb 2018

    They have it all! You tell them your problem and they will have you covered with their services and support. Great going, Ebizfiling.

  • Client Review, Ebizfiling

    Dhanraj Bhuptani

    16 May 2018

    They have a really good team of hardworking employees. I was guided and served very well.

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