Startup India Certificate: Eligibility, Benefits, Documents & Application Process  

Every startup begins with a bold vision — to innovate, disrupt, and bring something entirely new to the market. Recognising this entrepreneurial spirit, the Government of India launched the Startup India initiative in 2016 to nurture innovation and support startups with resources, recognition, and regulatory benefits. A key part of this initiative is the Startup India Certificate issued by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). This certificate not only validates a startup’s eligibility under the scheme but also unlocks access to a wide range of benefits, including tax exemptions, funding support, self-certification under labour and environmental laws, and more. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Startup India Certificate — from eligibility and required documents to registration steps and benefits.

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What is the Startup India Certificate?

The Startup India Certificate is an official recognition provided by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Startup India initiative launched by the Government of India in 2016. This certificate recognises an entity as a "startup" under the Startup India scheme, allowing it to access various benefits provided by the government.

Benefits of the Startup India Certificate

Obtaining a Startup India Certificate—also referred to as the Startup India Registration Certificate or Certificate of Recognition under Startup India—offers a range of strategic benefits designed to empower new businesses across India. From financial incentives to simplified compliance, here’s how startups can gain from this initiative:

Patents, Trademarks & Design Registration

If your startup is working on an innovation that requires patent protection, or if you wish to register a trademark or design, you can do so with ease:

• Access a government-approved list of IP facilitators through the Startup India portal.
• You only need to pay the statutory filing fees — the government covers 80% of the professional fees, making it significantly more affordable.
• This is one of the most sought-after benefits of the Startup India certificate, particularly for tech-driven and product-based startups looking to secure their intellectual property.

Funding Support: Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)

One of the biggest challenges for startups in India is securing early-stage funding. Due to limited experience, lack of collateral, and minimal cash flow, many startups struggle to attract private investors. Additionally, the high-risk nature of new businesses makes traditional funding channels cautious.

To tackle this issue, the government launched the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) on 21st January 2021, with a total allocation of ₹945 crore. This scheme aims to provide financial assistance to eligible startups for four years, enabling them to build prototypes, run proof of concepts, and launch products.

Startups recognised by DPIIT and holding a valid Startup India certificate can apply for this funding support.

Self-Certification Under Labour and Environmental Laws

With the Startup India registration certificate, businesses can self-certify compliance under:

• 6 Labour Laws
• 3 Environmental Laws

This self-certification facility is valid for 3 to 5 years from the date of incorporation and significantly reduces regulatory compliance costs. The goal is to allow startups to focus on core operations rather than getting bogged down by complex legal frameworks.

Additionally, startups operating under any of the 36 white-category industries listed by the Central Pollution Control Board are exempt from obtaining clearances under three major environment-related Acts for the first three years.

Income Tax Exemption

Another major benefit of having a Startup India certificate of recognition is eligibility for income tax exemption for three consecutive financial years out of the first ten years from incorporation.

However, to avail this tax benefit, your startup must also be certified by the Inter-Ministerial Board (IMB). Only startups incorporated on or after 1st April 2016 are eligible to apply for this exemption.

This exemption helps startups reinvest their earnings into growth and innovation during the critical early years.

Fast-Track Exit (Winding Up)

The Startup India Certificate also makes it easier to close operations. Certified startups can wind up their business within 90 days of application under a simplified insolvency framework, providing a hassle-free exit strategy when required.

Relaxed Public Procurement Norms

Startups holding a valid Startup India Certification can participate in government tenders without needing prior experience or turnover history. This opens the door to high-value projects with various ministries, public sector undertakings, and government departments—opportunities typically reserved for established players.

Eligibility Criteria for Startup India Certificate

To qualify for the Startup India Certificate of Recognition and access the associated benefits, such as tax exemptions, funding support, and simplified compliance, your business must meet the following eligibility criteria set by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT):

1. Business Structure

The startup must be registered as a private limited company, a limited liability partnership (LLP), or a partnership firm. These are the only structures eligible to apply for the Startup India Registration Certificate.

2. Age of the Startup

To be eligible for the Startup India Certificate, the entity must be less than 10 years old from the date of its incorporation. For biotechnology startups, this period is extended up to 15 years.

3. Annual Turnover Limit

The startup’s annual turnover must not have exceeded INR 100 crores in any financial year since incorporation. This revenue cap ensures that the benefits are directed toward early and growth-stage ventures.

4. Innovation & Scalability

To get the Startup India Certificate, your startup must demonstrate a clear focus on innovation, development, or improvement of products, services, or processes. The innovation should ideally be technology-driven or based on intellectual property.

5. DPIIT Recognition

One of the key steps in the Startup India certificate application process is obtaining official recognition from DPIIT. Only DPIIT-recognised startups are eligible for benefits like angel tax exemption, funding access, and relaxed public procurement norms.

6. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

The startup must be compliant with all applicable laws, including the Companies Act, Income Tax Act, and GST regulations. Additionally, it must maintain a bank account in the business’s name, which is required during the Startup India certificate registration process.

7. Job Creation Potential

To align with the goals of the Startup India scheme, the startup should either be actively creating jobs or have the potential to do so in the near future. This criterion reflects the initiative’s core objective of promoting employment generation across the country.

Details Required for Startup India Certificate Application

Before you begin the Startup India registration process, it’s important to ensure you have all the necessary information and documents ready. Whether you're exploring how to apply for a Startup India certificate or are ready to submit your application, here’s a checklist of essential details required for the process:

Basic Business Information

• Name of Startup: Enter the official registered name of your business entity.
• Type of Organisation: Choose the legal structure—Private Limited Company, Limited Liability Partnership (LLP), or Partnership Firm.
• Company PAN Number: Provide the PAN issued in the name of your business.

Contact Information

• Email ID: Enter a valid and regularly monitored business email address for communication.
• Mobile Number: Provide the contact number of the authorised person for OTP verification and updates regarding the Startup India certificate application.

Authorised Representative Details

• Name of Authorised Person: Mention the full name of the individual representing the startup.
• Personal PAN Number: Submit the PAN of the authorised person for identity verification.

Business Address

• Address of Business: Fill in the complete business address as per your company’s official records.
• City: Enter the city where your business is located.
• State: Select the state from the dropdown during the Startup India certificate registration.
• Pincode: Mention the correct postal code associated with your business location.

GST Details

• Does your Company Have a GST Number?: Indicate whether your startup is GST-registered by selecting Yes or No.

Having these details ready will help you complete your Startup India certificate of recognition application smoothly.

Documents Required for Startup India Certificate

To successfully complete your Startup India certificate application and obtain DPIIT recognition, you must submit a set of essential documents. These documents help validate your business’s identity, structure, and compliance, making them crucial for anyone looking to get a Startup India certificate under the government’s flagship initiative.

 1. MoA & AoA or Partnership Deed

• For Private Limited Companies or LLPs: Submit the Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA). These documents define your business’s purpose, activities, and internal governance.
• For Partnership Firms: Provide a Partnership Deed that outlines the terms, ownership structure, and responsibilities of each partner.

2. Certificate of Incorporation

This is the official document issued by the Registrar of Companies that confirms your business is legally incorporated. It’s mandatory to proceed with the Startup India registration process.

3. PAN Card of the Organisation

A valid Permanent Account Number (PAN) issued in the name of your business entity—whether a company, LLP, or partnership firm. It serves as a unique tax identity for the startup.

4. PAN Card of Authorised Person

Submit the PAN card of the director, partner, or authorised representative. This document is needed to validate the individual’s identity during the DPIIT recognition process.

5. Aadhaar Card of Authorised Person

The Aadhaar card of the authorised signatory or director is required for e-verification and authentication when applying for the Startup India certificate.

6. Business Address Proof

Provide proof of your startup’s registered office address. Accepted documents include utility bills (electricity, water), lease/rent agreements, or property ownership documents.

7. Company Bank Statement

A recent bank statement (preferably from the last 2–3 months) in the name of your startup. This validates the operational status and banking activity of your business.

 8. Photograph of Directors or Partners

Passport-sized photographs of all directors or partners must be submitted for official records and identification purposes.

How to apply for the Startup India certificate?

Below is a simplified guide on how to apply for the Startup India certificate and complete the Startup India registration process in 2025.

Step 1: Incorporate Your Business

The first step to obtaining the Startup India certificate is to legally incorporate your business under one of the following structures:

• Private Limited Company
• Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
• Partnership Firm

You must follow the standard registration process applicable to your chosen structure:

• For a Private Limited Company or LLP, file your incorporation application with the Registrar of Companies (RoC) in your jurisdiction.
• For a Partnership Firm, submit your registration application to the Registrar of Firms in your area.

In both cases, you’ll need to submit the required documents, pay applicable government fees, and comply with regulatory formalities. Once approved, you’ll receive a Certificate of Incorporation (for companies/LLPs) or Partnership Registration Certificate, which is essential for moving forward with the Startup India registration process.

A valid incorporation certificate is a mandatory document for applying for DPIIT recognition and claiming benefits under the Startup India scheme.

IndiaFilings can assist you with business incorporation to ensure compliance and fast-track the registration process.

Step 2: Register with Startup India

Once your business is incorporated, the next step is to complete your Startup India registration through the official Startup India portal. This is a crucial step toward obtaining your Startup India certificate of recognition.

Here's how to register:

• Visit the official website of Startup India
• Click the ‘Register’ button on the homepage.

• Fill in basic details such as:
  • Your name
  • Email ID
  • Mobile number
  • Set a password

• Click ‘Register’ to create your account.
• Verify Your Email: You will receive an OTP (One-Time Password) on your registered email ID. Enter the OTP to proceed.
• Complete Your Startup Profile: After email verification, you’ll be asked to provide key startup details such as: 
• Type of user (Startup, Individual, or Incubator)
• Name of your startup
• Stage of development (Idea, Validation, Early Traction, Scaling, etc.)
• Click ‘Submit’ once all details are filled in. This will create your official Startup India profile.

Note: Creating a profile is mandatory before applying for the Startup India certificate under DPIIT. 

Additional Benefits:

Once your Startup India account is active, you can:

• Apply for DPIIT recognition
• Access government schemes and incentives
• Explore funding and market access opportunities
• Join accelerator and mentorship programs
• Tap into learning resources and startup toolkits

This step builds the foundation for applying for your Startup India recognition certificate and unlocking all associated benefits.

Step 3: Get DPIIT Recognition for Your Startup

Once your Startup India profile is created, the next essential step is to obtain DPIIT recognition (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade). This recognition is crucial to becoming eligible for the Startup India certificate and accessing the full range of government benefits under the Startup India scheme.

With DPIIT recognition, your startup can avail:

• Tax exemptions for three consecutive financial years
• Exemption from Angel Tax under Section 56
• 80% rebate on patent filing and other IPR services
• Self-certification under labour and environment laws
• Relaxed public procurement norms
• Easy exit through simplified winding-up process
• Access to the ₹10,000 crore Fund of Funds

Steps to Apply for DPIIT Recognition:

• Log in to your registered account on the Startup India portal.
• Go to the ‘Recognition’ tab and click ‘Apply for DPIIT Recognition’.

• Click on ‘Apply Now’ — you will be redirected to the National Single Window System (NSWS) website.

• Register on the NSWS platform if you're a new user.

Once registered, add the form titled ‘Registration as a Startup’ to your dashboard.

Fill out the Startup Recognition Form with accurate details and submit it online.

Tip: Ensure all required documents are ready and submitted accurately to avoid delays in processing your Startup India certificate application.

After submitting the application, the DPIIT will review your details and supporting documents. Once approved, you’ll receive your official Startup India Certificate of Recognition, confirming your eligibility for benefits under the initiative.

Step 4: Submit the Recognition Application

After registering on the National Single Window System (NSWS) and selecting the ‘Registration as a Startup’ option, you must complete and submit the Startup Recognition Form to apply for your Startup India certificate of recognition.

What You Need to Fill in the Startup Recognition Form:

The form captures comprehensive details about your business, including:

• Entity Details: Legal name, type of organisation (Private Limited, LLP, or Partnership Firm)
• Full Office Address: Registered address including city, state, and pincode
• Authorised Representative Details: Name, PAN, Aadhaar, email ID, and mobile number
• Directors/Partners Information: Basic personal and identification details
• Startup Activities: Brief about the business, its innovation, product/service offerings, and sector
• Self-Certification: Declarations related to eligibility under the Startup India scheme

Click the ‘+’ icon beside each section to expand and input the required information. Make sure all entries are accurate and consistent with your incorporation documents.

Final Submission:

Once all sections of the Startup recognition form are completed: 

• Review all the details thoroughly. 
• Tick the checkbox to accept the terms and conditions.
• Click on the ‘Submit’ button to complete your Startup India certificate application.

Upon submission, your application will be reviewed by DPIIT. If everything is in order, you will soon receive your official Startup India Certificate, confirming your DPIIT recognition and eligibility for scheme benefits.

Step 6: Get Your Startup India Recognition Number

Once you submit the Startup Recognition Form, you will immediately receive a Startup India recognition number. This number serves as an initial acknowledgement of your application under the Startup India scheme.

The final Startup India certificate of recognition will be issued after a thorough verification of the uploaded documents by DPIIT officials. Typically, the certificate is granted within 48 hours of submission, provided all information is accurate and complete.

Once approved, you can download your Startup India certificate directly from the dashboard on the Startup India portal.

Step 7: Apply for Other Benefits

After receiving your Startup India certificate, your startup becomes eligible for various government-backed benefits and schemes, including intellectual property rights (IPR) support.

Startup India Certificate download

Startups that have received DPIIT recognition can easily download their Startup India certificate through DigiLocker. Just log in to the DigiLocker mobile app or web portal, search for "Startup" or the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), and select "Recognition Certificate." Enter your certificate number and registered mobile number, then click "Get Document" to instantly access and download your Startup India recognition certificate. This digital certificate is legally valid and can also be shared or verified by corporations and government agencies using the DigiLocker platform.

Below is a sample format of the Startup India registration certificate you will receive:

How to Validate the Startup India Certificate Issued via DigiLocker

Startups that have received their Startup India Certificate of Recognition can easily access, download, and validate it through DigiLocker, a secure cloud-based document storage platform provided by the Government of India. These digital certificates are legally equivalent to physical documents under Rule 9A of the Information Technology Rules, 2016.

Steps to Download Your Startup India Certificate via DigiLocker:

• Log in to your DigiLocker account using the mobile app or web portal.
• Go to the "Search Document" section.
• Click on the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Central Government category, or search for "Startup".
• Select "Recognition Certificate – DPIIT".
• Enter your certificate number and registered mobile number.
• Click on "Get Document" to view and download the certificate.

 Steps to Verify the Certificate:

Corporates and government agencies can also validate the certificate shared with them through DigiLocker:

• Open the DigiLocker mobile app.
• Tap the hamburger menu (☰) and select "Scan QR Code".
• Scan the QR code printed on the certificate.
• Confirm the details shown on the screen with the certificate shared.

This ensures the authenticity of the Startup India recognition certificate for both startups and verifiers.

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Ready to take your startup to the next level? Let IndiaFilings handle the entire process of obtaining your Startup India certificate—from business incorporation to DPIIT recognition. Our experts will guide you step-by-step, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free registration experience. Save time, avoid errors, and unlock all the benefits the Startup India scheme has to offer.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Startup India Certificate?

The Startup India Certificate, issued by DPIIT, is an official recognition under the Startup India initiative. It validates that your business meets the criteria to be considered a startup and allows you to access government benefits like tax exemptions, funding, and self-certification.

2. How do I apply for a Startup India Certificate?

To apply, first incorporate your business (as a Pvt. Ltd., LLP, or partnership), register on the Startup India portal, and then apply for DPIIT recognition through the National Single Window System (NSWS). Submit the required form and documents to complete the application.

3. What are the benefits of having a Startup India Certificate?

Key benefits include:

• 3-year income tax exemption
• Exemption from Angel Tax under Section 56
• 80% rebate on patent filing
• Access to government funding schemes
• Self-certification under labour and environmental laws
• Relaxed norms for public procurement

4. Who is eligible for the Startup India Certificate?

To be eligible, your startup must:

• Be under 10 years old (15 years for biotech)
• Be registered as a Pvt. Ltd., LLP, or partnership
• Have an annual turnover under ₹100 crore
• Be working on innovation or improvement of products/services
• Not be formed by splitting an existing business

 5. How long does it take to get the Startup India Certificate?

After submitting your DPIIT recognition application with correct details and documents, the certificate is usually issued within 48 hours, though it may take longer in case of additional verification.

6. How can I download my Startup India Certificate?

You can download your Startup India certificate from the Startup India portal or via DigiLocker. Just search for “DPIIT Recognition Certificate,” enter your certificate number and registered mobile number, and download the document instantly.

RENU SURESH Expert

Updated on: June 17th, 2025