Startup India Registration Guide – Eligibility, Process, Benefits & Documents

India is now recognized as one of the world’s fastest-growing startup ecosystems.

With a government-backed program like Startup India, aspiring entrepreneurs have the chance to gain support and recognition.

They also have access to the tools and networks necessary to build a scalable business.

Startup India, a flagship initiative by the Government of India, was launched in January 2016 to promote innovation and support startups.

This is to create a friendly environment for entrepreneurs in India. Promote sustainable economic growth and generate jobs across various sectors. 

Everything you need to know about registering under Startup India in 2025 is explained in this guide, including eligibility benefits, a step-by-step process, and required documentation.

What is Startup India Registration?

Startup India Registration is the process of registering and recognizing your startup application through the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). This registration grants you access to numerous government benefits such as tax exemptions, funding programs, expedited patent approval, and simplified compliance. The Startup India initiative aims to support innovative businesses and entrepreneurs by easing regulatory burdens and offering financial incentives. 

Key Features of the Startup India Scheme

• 100% online application and recognition via the Startup India Portal 

• Eligibility for a 3-year income Tax exemption on profit earned – consecutive financial years

• Eligibility for Angel Tax Exemption under Section 56(2)(viib)

• Rebate on patent (80%) and trademark (50%)

• Priority patent examination, access to government tenders without turnover limits 

• Winding up operations within 90 days under the Insolvency & Bankruptcy Code 

• Self-certification under selects labor and environmental laws

 

Eligibility Requirements for Startup India Registration 

To apply for DPIIT recognition under Startup India, an entity must fulfill the following criteria:

 

Document Required to Register Under Startup India. 

Here is a list of documents and details that you will need to register your enterprise under the Startup India Scheme:

• Your Certificate of Incorporation or Registration certificate, which you can get from the MCA for a private limited company or LLP, or from the Registrar for a partnership firm

• Information about your Directors, Partners, or Founders, including their names, contact details, ID proofs, email addresses, and a photograph

• A summary that highlights your business, showing its innovative features, scalability, and how it creates job opportunities.

• A link to your website or Pitch Deck, if you have one. Details of funding, if applicable.

• Any registration of intellectual Property, if applicable.

• PAN of the Entity.

Step by Step Startup India Registration Process 2025

The entire registration process for Registration is online. 

Step 1: Incorporate Your Business. Make sure your entity is a:

• Private Limited Company (under Companies Act 2013)

• Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)

• Registration Partnership Firm

• Obtain the certificate of incorporation from the MCA? Register of Firm.

Step 2: Register in the ILDS Portal

• Visit 

• Click on “Register.” 

• Fill in your particulars (Name, Email ID, Mobile number, Password)

• Confirm your emails and complete the profile 

Step 3: Apply for DPIIT Recognition. Once your profile is complete

• Log in 

• Click on ‘DPIIT recognition for startup’ 

• Fill out the online application with the details of your business, incorporation number, date, address, objectives of the business, and details of the innovation.

• Upload documents in the specified format. 

• Submit the application

 

Step 4: Get Startup India Recognition Number. Once your application is approved, you will receive a Startup Recognition Number immediately. The Certificate of Recognition will be issued to you within 2-3 working days.

You can then apply for tax exemption, funding schemes, and any other benefits available under the Startup India program.

Benefits of Startup India Registration. 

By registering your startup under the Startup India Initiative, the advantages for entrepreneurs are manifold:

1. Income Tax Exemption 

A recognized startup can apply for Income Tax exemption in accordance with Section 80-IAC for 3 consecutive financial years out of the 10 years from the date of incorporation.

2. Angel Tax Exemption 

Startups are exempt from Angel Tax on the capital raised at a premium by issuing shares in accordance with Section 56(2)(vii-b).

3. Fast Track Patent & Trademark Registration Startup can avail of: 

• 80% rebate in patent filing fees 

• 50% rebate in trademark filing fees

• Priority examination of Patent application

4. Government Tender Access 

A recognized startup can apply for a government tender without requiring prior turnover or experience.

5. Access to other Startup India Funding Schemes 

1. Startups can apply for priority schemes like:

• Funds of Funds for startups (FFS)

(INR 10,000 crore corpus through SEBI-registered venture funds)

• Seed Funds Scheme 

(grants of up to INR 20 Lakh and debt/equity funding of up to INR lakh)

6. Escape Route

Startups can wind up their operations within 90 days after applying the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016.

7. Self-Certification for Labor and Environmental Laws

Startups are allowed to self-certify under six labor laws and three environmental laws for a period of five years from the date of their incorporation.

Exciting updates to the Startup India Scheme (2025)

• The eligibility cap for turnover has been increased from INR 25 crore to INR 100 crore 

• Startup age eligibility increased from 7 years to 10 Years 

• A single-window patent filing system for recognized startups is now in place 

• Budget 2025 provides a higher allocation to the seed funds Scheme

 

Most Common Mistakes Individuals Make When Registering 

• Not uploading complete or accurate documents, using a generic business summary without indicating any innovation. 

• No links to websites, prototype, or proof of concept 

• No information on funding (if required)

• Not following through on post-registration compliance 
  
  

Seamless Startup Registration with OneDash

OneDash offers end-to-end support for all business registrations, including company incorporation, GST registration, MSME/Udyam Registration, and more—everything through a single platform. Our seamless digital interface enables startups to efficiently handle registrations, DPIIT recognition, documentation, and compliance, all without the hassle of paperwork. Plus, we're just a phone call away whenever you need assistance.

 

Conclusion

The Startup India registration program has enabled thousands of entrepreneurs in India to obtain access to low-risk regulatory processes, tax benefits, and exclusive funding opportunities. If you’re aspiring to be a startup and/or already have a startup business under 10 years old, you should sign up for recognition under this scheme. This increases your credibility, and you can benefit from tax exemptions, easier patent registration, funding schemes, and reduced or no compliance. 

Are you ready to register your startup? Log on to https://one-startup.in/  and start your application!