The rapidly growing economy of India, the technology savvy human resource, and the large consumer base of India have made India a good place where the UK firms want to expand, outsource or exploit new markets. Registering a company in India may be a good opportunity, regardless of whether you are a startup founder, a growing SME, or a large enterprise in the UK.
But how can one, and a UK-based individual or business, integrate a company in India, without even setting foot in the country?
It is the ultimate guide involving registering a company in India as a UK resident, the legal aspects, the structures available, the pitfalls to avoid and how we can assist you along the way step by step all at a distance and at an affordable cost- 100 per cent.
Thinking of Starting a Business in India from the UK?
We specialize in helping UK entrepreneurs register their companies in India—100% remotely.
From legal setup to compliance, we handle everything.
Start your Indian company in as little as 7 days.
Start Today – Take Your UK Business to India
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Or email us at [info@neerajbhagat.com]
Why UK Companies Are Registering in India
India is increasingly becoming the top destination for UK entrepreneurs and corporations, thanks to:
- Lower operational costs and access to a vast talent pool
- A domestic market of over 1.4 billion people
- Pro-startup initiatives like ‘Startup India’ and Make in India
- Legal ease for foreign companies to set up offshore development centres
- Strengthening UK-India trade relations and free trade discussions
Can a UK Citizen Register a Company in India?
Yes. A UK citizen or company can fully own and register an Indian company, entirely remotely, without being physically present. However, there are a few compliance steps and documentation formalities to be followed.
Best Company Types for UK Entrepreneurs in India
| Company Type | Ideal For | Foreign Ownership | Notes |
| Private Limited Company (PLC) | Startups, SMEs, tech companies | 100% allowed | Most common structure |
| Liaison Office | Market research, representation | Revenue not allowed | Needs RBI approval |
| Branch Office | Export/import, consulting, R&D | With RBI approval | Regulated sectors only |
| Wholly-Owned Subsidiary | Large UK corporations | 100% ownership | Full-fledged Indian entity |
Most UK businesses prefer a Private Limited Company due to tax advantages, credibility, and simple foreign ownership rules under India’s automatic FDI route.
How to Register a Company in India from the UK – Step-by-Step
1.Choose the Right Structure
We help you decide between:
- Private Limited Company – ideal for full ownership and flexibility
- Subsidiary of a UK parent company – when you’re extending an existing brand
2. Obtain Digital Signature Certificates (DSC)
Every director must have a DSC to digitally sign documents.
Required Documents for UK Citizens:
- Valid UK Passport
- Utility bill or UK driving licence as proof of address
- Passport-sized photo
Must be notarised and apostilled in the UK or Indian High Commission.
3. Apply for Director Identification Number (DIN)
You’ll need a DIN through Form DIR-3 from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).
Usually takes 1–2 business days.
4. Reserve Company Name (RUN Form)
Submit 2 preferred name options on MCA’s RUN portal.
We help you check name availability and domain status before filing.
5. Draft MOA & AOA
The purpose of your company and the rules under which it works are established by the following legal documents:
- MOA (Memorandum of Association)
- AOA (Articles of Association)
Our legal team ensures they are drafted per Indian law while respecting UK-originated structures and preferences.
6. File Incorporation Documents (SPICe+ Form)
SPICe+ includes:
- Company registration
- PAN & TAN applications
- Employee State Insurance (ESIC) & Provident Fund (EPFO)
- Optional GST registration
If all is in order, your company will be registered within 7–10 working days.
7. Get PAN, TAN & Open a Bank Account
After incorporation, your company will receive:
- PAN (Permanent Account Number)
- TAN (Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number)
- Assistance in opening a remote Indian bank account (we partner with trusted Indian banks that support foreign founders)
8. Register for GST (If Applicable)
GST is required if your Indian business turnover exceeds ₹20 lakhs (~£20,000) annually, or you offer taxable services/products.
9. Post-Incorporation Compliance
Once your Indian company is live, ensure:
- Annual ROC filings
- Statutory audits
- Income tax returns
- Maintenance of company registers
We offer full compliance packages, ensuring you stay legally protected without lifting a finger.
Legal Considerations for UK Founders
- One Indian Resident Director is mandatory for a PLC. (We provide nominee director services if needed.)
- All foreign documents must be notarised and apostilled in the UK.
- 100% foreign ownership is allowed in most sectors under FDI Automatic Route.
- Capital remittance must comply with India’s FEMA and RBI guidelines.
Pro Tips for UK Companies Expanding to India
- Choose Private Limited Company for ease and flexibility
- Partner with professionals who provide nominee directors and registered office in India
- Keep all your UK-issued documents properly apostilled
- Stay compliant from the start—avoid legal issues down the line
- Use local professionals who understand UK-India cross-border business
Ready to Set Up Your Indian Company? Start Today
We’ve helped dozens of UK companies enter the Indian market with:
- Transparent pricing
- director + office address
- Fast processing and remote account setup
- End-to-end compliance solutions
Book a Free Consultation Today
Email: info@neerajbhagat.com
Website: neerajbhagat.com
FAQs – Registering an Indian Company from the UK
1. Can a UK citizen start a business in India?
Yes, UK citizens can start a company in India with 100% foreign ownership allowed in most sectors.
2. What’s the best company structure for UK founders?
A Private Limited Company is ideal due to:
- Full ownership rights
- Limited liability protection
- Higher investor and customer trust
- Better access to Indian markets
3. Can I register an Indian company from the UK remotely?
Yes, the entire process can be done remotely:
- DSC & DIN setup
- Name approval
- Legal filings (MOA, AOA)
- SPICe+ form submission
- PAN, TAN & bank account opening
4. Do I need a local Indian partner or director?
You don’t need a partner, but you do need one Indian resident director. We can appoint a nominee director for you.
5. How long does it take to register a company in India?
It typically takes 7 to 10 business days, depending on documentation and approvals.
6. Can I open an Indian business bank account from the UK?
Yes. After incorporation, we assist in opening a remote business bank account in India through our banking partners.
7. Do I need to travel to India?
Not at all. The entire process—from incorporation to compliance—can be completed 100% remotely.
