Starting a business in Kolkata involves multiple registrations across different authorities. Here's the complete checklist and how to navigate it.
The Three Essential Registrations
Any business operating in Kolkata needs three core registrations: a KMC trade licence (municipal), GST registration (central), and professional tax registration (state). Depending on the nature of the business, additional licences may be required (FSSAI for food businesses, drug licence for pharmacies, etc.).
The Right Order
The order matters. Start with business registration (if a company or LLP, register with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs first). Then apply for the KMC trade licence (which requires the business registration certificate). Then apply for GST registration (which requires the trade licence). Then apply for professional tax registration.
Timeline
KMC trade licence: 3–6 weeks. GST registration: 7–10 working days. Professional tax registration: 2–3 weeks. If all applications are submitted simultaneously (which requires careful coordination), the entire process can be completed in 6–8 weeks.
For NRI-Owned Businesses
If you are an NRI starting a business in Kolkata, there are additional considerations: RBI approval may be required for certain types of investment; a local director or partner is required for many business structures; and the KMC trade licence application requires a local address. We work with NRI entrepreneurs to navigate these requirements and establish businesses in Kolkata from abroad.
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