How to Get Startup India Certificate Online

Launching a startup in India? Getting recognized under the Startup India Scheme can be a game-changer.

From tax exemptions to easier compliance, DPIIT recognition (commonly referred to as the Startup India Certificate) opens doors to a host of government benefits designed to support innovative startups. The best part? You can apply for it completely online—no long queues, no paperwork chaos.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the exact steps to get your Startup India Certificate online, eligibility criteria, required documents, and benefits.

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 in 2016.

This recognition gives your business access to multiple benefits like:

• Tax exemptions (Income Tax & Angel Tax)
• Easier access to government tenders
• Funding and incubation support
• IPR benefits like fast-tracked patent applications
• Self-certification for labour & environmental laws

Eligibility Criteria for Startup India Certificate

Before applying, your business must meet these conditions:

1. Type of Entity:
   • Private Limited Company
   • Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
   • Partnership Firm
2. Age of Company:
   • The entity should be less than 10 years old from the date of incorporation.
3. Annual Turnover:
   • Should not exceed ₹100 crore in any of the financial years since incorporation.
4. Original Entity:
   • The business must be original and not formed by splitting up or restructuring an existing business.
5. Innovation & Scalability:
   • The startup should be working towards innovation, improvement of existing products or services, or have the potential to generate employment or wealth creation.

Documents Required for Startup India Certificate

Here is the list of essential documents you’ll need while applying:

1. Certificate of Incorporation (from MCA/ROC)
2. PAN of the company
3. Details of Directors or Partners
4. Brief Description of Business Activities (or Pitch Deck/Website Link)
5. Startup’s Contact Details
6. Authorization Letter (if applying through an agent)
7. Patent Details (optional – if applicable)
8. Website or Deck showing Innovation/Uniqueness (strongly recommended)

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for Startup India Certificate Online

Let’s break the process down into 2 major phases:

🔹 Phase 1: Register on the Startup India Portal

Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
Go to www.startupindia.gov.in

Step 2: Click on ‘Register’
Use your company email ID and fill in basic details like name, mobile number, and startup details.

Step 3: Log In to Your Dashboard
Once registered, log in using your credentials to access the Startup India dashboard.

🔹 Phase 2: Apply for DPIIT Recognition

Step 4: Fill the DPIIT Recognition Form
Navigate to “DPIIT Recognition” on the dashboard and click on “Apply for Recognition”.

You’ll need to enter the following:

Step 5: Upload Documents
Attach the necessary documents listed above. Make sure they are clear and legible.

• Company details (name, type, incorporation date)
• Industry sector and category
• Company size (number of employees, etc.)
• Startup’s mission, vision, and innovation summary
  

Step 6: Self-Declaration
You’ll be required to self-certify that your startup meets all the eligibility conditions.

Step 7: Submit the Application
Review all details once again. Click “Submit” to send your application for review by DPIIT.

How Long Does the Approval Take?

Typically, the DPIIT processes your application within 10–15 working days. You may receive one of the following:

• Approval Email: With your Startup India Certificate attached.
• Clarification Email: Asking for additional documents or edits.
• Rejection Email: In rare cases, with reasons mentioned (you can reapply after resolving the issue).

Benefits of Having a Startup India Certificate

1. Income Tax Exemption
   Startups recognized by DPIIT can apply for Section 80 IAC, offering a 3-year tax holiday in the first 10 years.
2. Exemption from Angel Tax
   Under Section 56(2)(viib), startups are exempted from angel tax on investments received above fair market value.
3. Easier IPR Filing
   Startups get 80% rebate on patent filing fees and 50% on trademark with faster examination timelines.
4. Access to Government Schemes & Grants
   DPIIT-recognized startups can apply to Startup India Seed Fund, SIDBI Fund of Funds, and other central & state-level schemes.
5. Tender Eligibility
   Startups can participate in government tenders without having prior experience or turnover requirements.
6. Self-Certification
   Startups can self-certify compliance under 9 labour and 3 environment laws for the first 5 years.
   

FAQs

Q1. Is there any fee to get Startup India recognition?
No. The process is 100% free of cost.

Q2. Can I apply without a pitch deck?
Yes, but it’s highly recommended. A pitch deck, video, or website helps the DPIIT assess your innovation.

Q3. Can I reapply if rejected?
Yes. You can reapply after correcting the issues mentioned in the rejection email.

Q4. Can a sole proprietorship apply?
No. Only Pvt Ltd, LLP, and Partnership Firms are eligible.

Final Thoughts

If you’re serious about scaling your startup in India, getting DPIIT recognition is not just a badge—it’s a gateway to funding, tax relief, market access, and ease of doing business.

The process is simple, 100% online, and absolutely worth it.

And if you’re unsure how to proceed or want expert help, platforms like Startup Movers can make the entire process faster, error-free, and stress-free.