Branch Office Registration

Setting up a branch office is a huge milestone for any company. It signifies growth, expansion and an opportunity for greater profitability. However, before any business can establish a branch office, there are several legal procedures to comply with. One of the most crucial steps in the process is branch office registration. In simple terms, it is the process of registering a branch office with the appropriate authorities. It is a legal requirement that can be time-consuming and complex, but it is necessary for the business to operate legitimately. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the essential things you need to know about branch office registration in order to help you navigate the process seamlessly.

1. Overview of Branch Office Registration in India

With the opening of a Branch Office (BO), foreign companies can operate full-fledged businesses in India. BOs are authorized to carry out similar trading activities as the head company. India is an attractive destination for corporates worldwide to invest and have commercial ventures due to its status as a fast-developing economy and one of the largest consumer markets globally. Hence, there is a growing number of foreign companies that have registered their BOs in India. BO registration gives them the right to operate as a legal business entity in India and conduct similar activities to their parent company, except for manufacturing activities. The Reserve Bank of India approves the establishment of a BO as it is regulated under Section 6(6) of the Foreign Exchange and Management Act 1999. The approval authority also prescribes rules regarding governance, competitive authorities, and reporting requirements. 

What is a branch office?

A branch office is a type of business establishment in which a foreign corporation can carry out full-fledged operations in India. This allows foreign companies to expand their business interests in India. The Reserve Bank of India is the governing body that approves branch office registration, and it is regulated under the Foreign Exchange and Management Act 1999. A branch office provides the right for a foreign company to operate as a legal business entity in India, conducting similar trading activities as conducted by the head company in their homeland. However, manufacturing activities are restricted and must be subcontracted to an Indian manufacturer. To set up a branch office in India, the foreign company must meet certain eligibility criteria and follow the prescribed activities for a branch office. 

Types of businesses eligible for branch office registration

Foreign companies seeking to expand their business operations in India can do so by registering a branch office. With a branch office registration, the company enjoys the same trading activities as conducted by the parent company. However, it is important to note that branch offices are prohibited from direct manufacturing activities but are allowed to subcontract such tasks to an Indian manufacturer. The Reserve Bank of India is responsible for granting approval for the registration of branch offices. Foreign companies must meet specific eligibility criteria, including a net worth of over $100,000 and a profitability track record of at least five years. With a branch office registration, the company can conduct prescribed activities such as importing and exporting goods, providing professional and consulting services, conducting research activities, among others. The branch office must share the same name as that of the foreign parent company. 

Documents required for branch office registration

Branch Office Registration in India allows foreign companies to operate a full-fledged business in the country. The Reserve Bank of India is the approval authority for registration. The establishment of the branch office is regulated under Section 6(6) of the Foreign Exchange and Management Act 1999. The net worth of the foreign parent company, which should be above $100,000, and a track record of profitability for the past five years are two critical criteria for registering a branch office in India.

Eligible documents play a crucial role in the process of Branch Office registration in India. Complete details of directors and key executives of the company, shareholders of the applicant company, a net worth certificate attested by a certified public accountant (CPA), and the last five preceding year’s audited financial statements are some of the documents required for the registration. A copy of the business visa with immigration stamp of arrival on it, five copies of the national identity card, latest address proof (electricity bill/phone bill/water bill/bank statement), and power of attorney in the name of authorized representatives is also required.

The set up and regulation of Branch Office in India are governed by the Foreign Exchange Management Act 1999 and the regulations issued by the Reserve Bank of India. Foreign entities mostly engaged in manufacturing and trading activities usually set up Branch Offices in India. A Branch Office can undertake all types of profit-making activities, and all expenses may be borne by the foreign parent company. The applications for establishment of Branch Office are routed through designated AD Category I Bank and submitted in Form FNC along with the prescribed documents mentioned in the Form. 

Registration procedure for branch offices in India

Opening a branch office in India allows foreign companies to fully operate their businesses in the country. The Reserve Bank of India is the approval authority for registration, and the Foreign Exchange and Management Act 1999 regulates the establishment of branch offices. The branch office can conduct similar business activities as the parent company, except for manufacturing activities which need to be subcontracted to an Indian manufacturer. In order to set up a branch office, the foreign parent company must meet the eligibility criteria, including having a net worth greater than $100,000 and a five-year track record of profitability. The process takes around 3 to 4 weeks and requires complete documentation of the company’s details and shareholders. The Office must also share the same name as the parent company. The income tax on the profits of the branch office of the foreign parent company in India is 40%. 

Benefits of registering a branch office in India

With the opening of a branch office in India, foreign companies can expand and operate a full-fledged business in the country. India is currently among the world’s largest consumer markets and one of the fastest-growing emerging economies, which makes it an attractive location for global corporations to invest and establish commercial ventures. Registering a branch office in India allows foreign corporations to function as a legal business entity and perform similar trading activities as conducted by the Head Company in their homeland. The branch office registration is regulated by the Reserve Bank of India and is governed by the Foreign Exchange and Management Act 1999. The branch office can import and export goods, provide professional and consulting services, carry out research activities in the parent company’s active spheres, and work as a representative of foreign shipping or airline companies. The eligibility criteria require the overseas parent company to have a net worth of over $1000000, a five-year profitability track record and engage in the prescribed activities of the branch office in India. 

2. Eligibility criteria for setting up a Branch Office

Eligibility criteria for setting up a Branch Office require firms to register or notice file their offices with participating jurisdictions. Regulators will mark a branch office as Open in the CRD upon receipt of a notice filing. Fees for opening a branch office will be deducted from the firm’s Flex-Funding Account for FINRA and jurisdiction fees. Firms are responsible for determining whether their main office meets the definition of a branch office and needs to be registered. Main offices should be registered if they meet the requirements outlined in FINRA Rule 3110(f)(2), Notices to Members, and the uniform branch office definition. Registered representatives must report their physical location at the main office on Form U4, and firms may select BDMAIN for non-sales or trading activities or select the main office as a branch office if it meets the criteria for registration. 

3. Prescribed Activities for a Branch Office in India

Branch office registration in India has become an attractive choice for foreign corporates looking to expand their business interests in the country. A branch office can conduct similar business activities as conducted by the parent company in their homeland, with some restrictions. The Reserve Bank of India is the approval authority for registration of branch office, and the establishment of the branch office is regulated under Section 6(6) of the Foreign Exchange and Management Act 1999. The branch office registration gives a foreign company the right to operate as a legal business entity in India.

Prescribed activities of a branch office in India are limited to certain sectors. The branch office can conduct import & export of goods, provide professional and consultant services, conduct research activity in all those spheres where the parent company is already actively involved, boosting technical/financial collaboration on behalf of the parent company, work as a representative of a parent company in India and performing work of a buying/selling agent, deliver IT services, and develop software in India, indulge in the service of technical support for the products supplied by the parent company, and work as an approved representative for a foreign shipping or airline company in India. However, a branch office cannot conduct manufacturing activities directly but can sub-contract these activities to an Indian manufacturer. 

4. Points to consider before applying for Branch Office registration

Branch office registration can be a complex process that requires careful consideration before moving forward. Firms should ensure that they meet the requirements for registration or notice filing based on the regulations of each jurisdiction in which they operate. It is important to note the difference between registration and notice filing as they have different approval processes. Fees for opening a branch office will usually be deducted from the firm’s Flex-Funding Account, and legal counsel should be consulted to determine if a main office needs to be registered as a branch office. Firms should also be aware of any associated reporting requirements for their branch offices.

Before applying for branch office registration, firms should first determine if they meet the definition of a branch office based on the FINRA Rule and NASAA regulations. This may require reviewing the uniform branch office definition and consulting with legal counsel. It is also important to ensure that all associated individuals are properly associated with the branch office on the Form U4. Firms should carefully consider the types of activities that will take place at the registered branch office and accurately list them on the Form BR.

When applying for branch office registration, firms should ensure that all compliance attributes are being met, including proper rent payment and compensation for the use of the building. The Neighborhood Watch branch report can be a useful source for branch compliance attributes, although not all branches may need to be registered for FHA business. Firms should also comply with all submission requirements and submit any changes or update requests in a timely manner. Overall, careful consideration and compliance with regulations are key to successfully registering a branch office. 

6. Role of AD Category 1 Bank in the Branch Office registration process

AD Category 1 Banks play an important role in the registration of branch offices. They are authorized by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to deal in foreign exchange and thus can enable foreign entities to set up branch offices in India. The AD Category 1 Bank acts as a facilitator and provides a range of services to the foreign entities such as assisting in obtaining necessary approvals from the RBI and other authorities. They also help in opening and maintaining a Foreign Currency Account (FCA) for the funds required for setting up and operating the branch office. The AD Category 1 Bank also ensures that the branch office complies with RBI regulations, such as the submission of periodic reports and maintaining prescribed books of accounts.

In addition, the AD Category 1 Bank also plays a critical role in helping foreign entities navigate through the complex registration process. They assist in preparing and submitting the necessary documents such as the application form, board resolution, power of attorney and other relevant documents. They may also provide valuable guidance on the eligibility criteria, permitted activities and other regulatory requirements. In short, the AD Category 1 Bank acts as a one-stop-shop for foreign entities looking to set up a branch office in India.

Moreover, AD Category 1 Banks are also required to monitor the operations of the branch office and ensure that all transactions are within the prescribed guidelines. They are also responsible for reporting any deviations or violations to the RBI. In case of any issues with the branch office, the AD Category 1 Bank is also expected to take corrective measures proactively. They may also assist the branch office in repatriating profits or winding up operations as per the RBI guidelines.

In conclusion, the AD Category 1 Bank plays a crucial role in enabling foreign entities to set up branch offices in India. They simplify the registration process and provide valuable guidance on regulatory compliance. They also act as a conduit between the foreign entity and the RBI, ensuring that all transactions and activities are within the prescribed guidelines. Their support is vital in enabling the smooth functioning of branch offices, thereby contributing to the growth of the Indian economy. 

7. Important conditions for setting up a Branch Office

To set up a branch office, there are some essential conditions that need to be met. Firstly, firms need to register or notice file their branch office with the relevant regulatory authorities. The approval process for registering a branch office requires examination and approval by the jurisdiction or self-regulatory organization. In contrast, notice filing simply requires firms to notify the relevant regulator of the existence of the branch office.

For those wishing to register a branch office, fees for opening the office will be deducted from the firm’s flex-funding account. It’s important to note that if a firm only has one main office, it might still need to register it as a branch office, depending on certain factors. It’s up to the firm to review the rules and make the determination with the help of legal counsel. Once registered, firms must associate individuals with the correct branch office depending on where they are physically located.

The types of activities that can occur at each branch office must also be identified. Those registering or notifying firms of branch offices must select from a variety of options depending on the activities. This includes separate categories for retail, institutional, trading, and public finance activities. Supervisor activities must also be listed, but this is optional. Once registered, branch offices must remain open to the public during reasonable hours and must have at least one licensed individual present during insurance-related conduct. 

8. Income Tax and GST implications for a Branch Office

A Branch Office is a place of business set up by a foreign company to conduct its operations in India. Establishing a Branch Office allows the foreign company to expand its business operations in India without the need to incorporate a separate legal entity. However, there are certain tax implications associated with setting up a Branch Office in India. The most significant ones are Income Tax and GST implications. Branch Offices are taxed as a foreign company in India and are required to file Income Tax returns accordingly. The Branch Office is required to maintain proper books of accounts and to comply with all the necessary Income Tax regulations and requirements. Failure to comply with Income Tax regulations can lead to penalties and legal consequences for the Branch Office. 

9. Process and Timeline for Branch Office registration in India

With the opening of a branch office, foreign companies can conduct full-fledged business operations in India, similar to those of the parent company. The Reserve Bank of India is the approval authority for registration of branch offices, and the establishment of a branch office is regulated under the Foreign Exchange and Management Act 1999. The branch office registration provides a foreign company with the right to operate as a legal business entity in India and engage in similar business activities as conducted by the parent company in their homeland. However, it is restricted from conducting manufacturing activities directly. Instead, it can sub-contract these activities to an Indian manufacturer.

For branch office setup in India, the company must meet certain criteria, such as having a minimum net worth of $100,000 and a profitability track record of the past five years. The prescribed activities of a branch office in India include import and export of goods, providing professional and consultancy services, conducting research activities, and working as a representative of a parent company in India. Before applying for branch office registration, it is crucial to keep in mind the necessary documents required, such as a net worth certificate attested by a Certified Public Accountant, audited financial statements for the previous five years, and a report from the applicant’s bank in the host country.

The process of branch office registration takes about three to four weeks, depending on the case. The timeline starts with submitting the required documents to the authorized bank. However, it must be noted that the name of the branch office must be the same as the parent company’s name. Moreover, incomes earned by the branch office are subject to 40% income tax, and GST is imposed on the supply of goods and services. Once all taxes are cleared and audits of all account books are done, the profit earned by the branch office can be remitted from India to the parent company. The branch office is also expected to be compliant with the filing requirements of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs ROC and Income Tax Department. 

10. PAN Card, Tax deduction number, and Bank account opening for Branch Offices.

Opening a branch office in India is a significant step for any foreign corporation looking to expand its business interests. In order to operate legally, the branch office needs a Permanent Account Number (PAN) card, tax deduction number, and a bank account. These are essential documents needed for the company to begin trading. The PAN card is mandatory for all Indian citizens as well as foreign companies operating in India. The tax deduction number enables the company to deduct taxes on various payments made within India. The bank account is required for the branch office to carry out financial transactions such as payment of salaries, rental payments, and other necessary expenditures. These documents are necessary for the smooth functioning of the Branch Office in India and ensure compliance with Indian laws. It is recommended that companies seek professional assistance to ensure the accurate and timely acquisition of these documents. 

11. Frequently Asked Questions

Branch Office Registration is an essential aspect of compliance for firms and their registered representatives. FINRA offers a portal where registered representatives can access their industry CRD record, fulfill Continuing Education requirements, and perform other compliance tasks. Compliance professionals can access filings and requests, run reports, and submit support tickets. The Branch Office Registration Program (BR Program) requires branch offices to be either registered or notice filed, depending on the regulations of the participating jurisdiction.

When registering a branch office, the process requires an approval by the self-regulatory organization (SRO) or jurisdiction before the branch can begin doing business. In contrast, notice filing typically refers to a process by which firms notify an SRO or jurisdiction of the existence of a branch office, but approval is not required. The fees for opening a branch office will be deducted from the firm’s Flex-Funding Account, including FINRA and jurisdiction fees.

To determine whether a firm needs to register its main office as a branch office, the firm needs to review the uniform branch office definition in FINRA Rule 3110(f)(2). Firm individuals will report the Office of Employment in Section 1 (General Information) of Form U4. If the main office qualifies as a branch office, select that option or select BDMAIN or IAMAIN if the individual’s activities are limited to compliance, internal audit, or other non-sales or trading activities.

Firms can select types of activities for each registered branch office in Section 2 (Registration/Notice Filing/Type of Office/Activities) of Form BR. The Types of Activities question includes additional activity types, such as Retail and Institutional for Sales Activity, Trading for Market Making activity, and Public Finance for identification of office locations that require a principal to be registered as a Series 53 (Municipal Securities Principal). The Type of Activity field in Question E is optional.

Overall, firms and their legal counsel need to stay informed and comply with the regulations of each participating jurisdiction in the Branch Office Registration Program. The NASAA website provides information on which jurisdictions participate. Users should thoroughly review the definitions, guidance about the law, and applicable instructions. When in doubt, legal guidance should be solicited.