Liaison Office Setup in India

Establish liaison office for market research, communication, and promotional activities with RBI approval

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FEMA Experts

RBI Compliance

What is a Liaison Office in India?

A Liaison Office (LO) is a representative office of a foreign company established in India to act as a communication channel between the parent company and Indian entities. Liaison Offices cannot undertake any commercial, trading, or industrial activities and are primarily meant for promoting export/import, market research, and liaison activities between Indian companies and the parent company. Liaison Offices require prior approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

Key Benefits

Market Research & Exploration
No Income Tax Liability (on remittances)
Simplified Setup Process
Build Indian Market Presence
Easy Fund Remittance from Parent

Permitted Activities

Market Research & Surveys

Promoting Export/Import

Facilitating Technical Collaborations

Acting as Communication Channel

Representing Parent Company

Prohibited Activities

Direct Commercial/Trading Activities

Earning Any Income in India

Manufacturing or Processing

Retail Trading

Setup Process

Step 1

RBI Prior Approval Application

Step 2

PAN & TAN Registration

Step 3

Office Address Registration

Step 4

RBI Registration Certificate

Step 5

Bank Account Opening

Step 6

Annual Activity Certificate Filing

Documents Required

Certificate of Incorporation (Parent Company)

Audited Financial Statements (Last 3 Years)

Board Resolution for Setup

Authorized Representative KYC

Registered Office Proof in India

Detailed Activity Plan

What's Included in Our Package

Complete RBI Approval Assistance

PAN & TAN Registration

FEMA Compliance Support

Bank Account Opening Assistance

Annual Activity Certificate Filing

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Liaison Offices cannot undertake any commercial activities or earn income in India. All expenses must be met through inward remittances from the parent company.

RBI approval is initially granted for 3 years and can be extended subject to compliance and submission of annual activity certificates.

Generally not required as Liaison Offices do not undertake commercial activities. However, it may be required if receiving certain services.

Yes, a Liaison Office can be converted to a Branch Office or Subsidiary with proper closure procedures and fresh RBI approval.

Annual Activity Certificate from Chartered Accountant, income tax returns (if applicable), and RBI reporting of foreign exchange transactions.