15–25 days
Registration Timeline
100% Online
No India Visit Needed
100% FDI
Allowed in Most Sectors
₹8K–₹20K
Govt. Fee Range
Why UK-Based Founders Are Setting Up in India
The UK hosts one of the largest Indian diaspora communities in the world. With strong business ties between the two countries and India's growing economy, registering an Indian entity gives UK-based NRIs and British companies a strong foothold in Asia's fastest-growing market.
- ✓Tap into India's 1.4 billion consumer market
- ✓Access world-class tech and engineering talent at lower cost
- ✓Benefit from UK-India trade corridor opportunities
- ✓Qualify for Startup India recognition and tax benefits
- ✓Repatriate profits to the UK under FEMA/RBI guidelines
- ✓100% FDI permitted under Automatic Route in most sectors
Step-by-Step Registration Process
From FCDO apostille in the UK to receiving your Certificate of Incorporation.
01
Choose Your Business Structure
UK-based founders commonly register a Private Limited Company, LLP, or a Wholly Owned Subsidiary. We help you choose based on your sector, FDI requirements, and long-term plans.
02
Apostille Documents via UK FCDO
UK documents (passport, address proof) must be apostilled through the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Legalisation Office in Milton Keynes. We provide a step-by-step guide.
03
Obtain DSC (Digital Signature Certificate)
All directors need a Class 3 DSC from an Indian certifying authority. The application is handled remotely — no travel to India required.
04
Reserve Company Name via MCA RUN
We file your preferred company name through the MCA21 Reserve Unique Name (RUN) service and verify availability before proceeding to incorporation.
05
File SPICe+ Incorporation Form
The SPICe+ (INC-32) form combines company incorporation, DIN, PAN, TAN, and GSTIN applications in a single online submission to the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
06
Receive Certificate of Incorporation
Once the ROC approves the application, you receive your Certificate of Incorporation, PAN, and TAN. Your Indian company is ready to operate.
Documents Required from the UK
UK documents must be apostilled through the FCDO Legalisation Office. Both the UK and India are signatories to the Hague Apostille Convention.
Passport
Apostilled by FCDO Legalisation Office, Milton Keynes
UK Address Proof
Utility bill or bank statement (apostilled), dated within 2 months
PAN Card (Form 49AA)
For foreign nationals — we assist with the application
DSC (Class 3)
Digital Signature Certificate — obtained remotely
Director Identification Number (DIN)
Allotted through the SPICe+ filing
Registered Office Proof
Virtual registered office in India available through us
Which Business Structure is Right for You?
UK-based founders typically choose one of three structures.
| Structure | Best For | Min. Directors | FDI Allowed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Limited Company | Startups, funded ventures, subsidiaries | 2 (1 resident) | Yes — Automatic Route |
| LLP | Consulting, professional services, small teams | 2 (1 resident) | Yes — with restrictions |
| Wholly Owned Subsidiary | UK companies expanding to India | 2 (1 resident) | Yes — 100% ownership |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I register a company in India from the UK without visiting India?
Yes. The entire registration process is done online through the MCA21 portal. All documents are submitted digitally with apostilled copies. No physical presence in India is required.
How do I apostille documents in the UK for India company registration?
UK documents must be apostilled through the FCDO Legalisation Office in Milton Keynes. The process typically takes 2–5 working days. Notarisation by a UK solicitor may be required for some documents prior to apostille.
Does my Indian company need a UK national as director?
No — but it needs at least one director who is a resident of India (present in India for 182+ days in the previous calendar year). We can help arrange a nominee resident director if needed.
Can a British national own 100% of an Indian company?
Yes, in most sectors. India allows 100% FDI under the Automatic Route in sectors including IT, consulting, manufacturing, and e-commerce (marketplace model). A few sectors require prior government approval.
How long does it take to register a company in India from the UK?
Typically 15–25 working days once all apostilled documents are ready. The FCDO apostille process in the UK takes approximately 2–5 working days.
Can I open an Indian bank account from the UK?
Yes. After receiving the Certificate of Incorporation, you can open an Indian current account. Many major Indian banks have processes for NRI and foreign-director-led companies.
Ready to Register Your Indian Company from the UK?
Our team handles everything — FCDO apostille guidance, DSC, incorporation, and beyond. Get a free consultation today.
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