In India, the IT and IT-enabled services (ITES) sector has witnessed exponential growth. To promote exports and innovation in this domain, the government offers STPI (Software Technology Parks of India) and Non-STPI registration models. These schemes provide fiscal benefits, regulatory support, and infrastructure to IT units. In this guide, we’ll explain the eligibility, process, documentation, and compliance for both STPI and Non-STPI registrations.
1. 🧾 What is STPI and Non-STPI Registration?
🔹 STPI Registration
STPI is a government scheme governed by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (Meit). Units registered under STPI enjoy tax exemptions (Section 10A earlier), simplified procedures, and duty-free import/export for software development and services aimed at export markets.
🔹 Non-STPI Registration
Non-STPI Units are those operating in the domestic tariff area (DTA) without availing export-related benefits. However, they may still register with STPI to obtain a Letter of Permission (LoP) for operating as a non-export unit under STPI regulations.
2. ✅ Eligibility Criteria
| Type | Eligibility |
|---|---|
| STPI Unit | 100% Export-Oriented IT/ITES firms with custom-bonded premises or SEZ locations |
| Non-STPI Unit | Domestic IT companies not exporting, but seeking government recognition |
| Turnover Limit | No specific threshold but higher benefits for MSMEs and large exporters |
| Entity Type | Proprietorship, Partnership, LLP, Pvt Ltd, OPC, or Public Ltd Company |
3. 🌟 Key Benefits of STPI Registration
- 💰 Duty-free import/export of capital goods and software
- 📉 Simplified compliance under Customs Act and GST
- 🧾 Recognition for foreign investor approvals (FDI support)
- 🚀 Helps startups to scale globally with STPI infrastructure
- 🌍 Enables single-window clearance for STPI zone operations
4. 📑 Required Documents
📄 Entity Documents
- Certificate of Incorporation and MoA/AoA (for companies)
- Partnership Deed/LLP Agreement (if applicable)
- PAN and GST Registration
- IEC (for export-oriented units)
📄 Operational Proof
- Project Report describing business activities, technology stack, export plan
- Signed lease deed/rental agreement for office premises
- Board resolution authorizing STPI/Non-STPI application
- List of directors/partners with ID proofs
- Banker’s Certificate or audited balance sheet
- Valid Email ID and Mobile Number for communication
5. 🌐 Registration Portal & Access
| Type of Registration | Authority | Website |
|---|---|---|
| STPI Registration | Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) | https://www.stpi.in |
| Non-STPI Unit | Respective STPI Regional Directorates | https://www.stpi.in/registration |
6. 📝 Step-by-Step Registration Process
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit https://www.stpi.in and download application format |
| 2 | Fill Form-F and prepare project report as per STPI guidelines |
| 3 | Attach required documents and submit via online portal or email to STPI regional office |
| 4 | Pay applicable processing fee (₹5,000–₹10,000) through bank transfer or DD |
| 5 | Attend technical presentation before STPI Approval Committee |
| 6 | Post-approval, sign Legal Agreement with STPI (bonding with customs, if required) |
| 7 | Obtain Letter of Permission (LoP) and Unique STPI Unit Code |
| 8 | Set up bonded warehouse (for STPI units) and initiate operations |
| 9 | Submit quarterly and annual reports as part of post-approval compliance |
🕒 Processing Time: 2–3 weeks
💳 Approx. Fee: ₹5,000–₹10,000 (one-time) + annual service charges
📍 Mode: Hybrid (Online Application + Physical Agreement)
7. 📌 Post-Registration Compliances
| Compliance | Timeline/Frequency | Mandatory | Priority |
|---|---|---|---|
| Signing Legal Agreement with STPI | Within 30 days | ✅ Yes | High |
| Filing Monthly Progress Reports (MPR) | Every month | ✅ Yes | High |
| Filing Annual Performance Report (APR) | Yearly | ✅ Yes | High |
| Customs Bonding (for STPI units) | Post-registration | ✅ Yes | Medium |
| Software Export Declaration (SOFTEX Form) | For every export invoice | ✅ Yes | High |
| Renewal of Registration | Every 5 years | ✅ Yes | Medium |
8. 🧾 Summary Table
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Applicable To | IT/ITES Exporters, Software Developers |
| Issuing Authority | STPI under MeitY |
| Application Portal | https://www.stpi.in |
| Documents Required | Business ID, Address Proof, Project Plan, Board Resolutions, etc. |
| Fees | ₹5,000–₹10,000 + GST |
| Processing Time | 2–3 Weeks |
| Compliance Required | MPR, APR, SOFTEX Forms, Legal Agreement |
| Type of Units | STPI (Export-Oriented), Non-STPI (Domestic) |
- If your unit is also into import-export, don’t forget to obtain your Import Export Code (IEC)
- Businesses seeking to develop proprietary solutions may benefit from Intellectual Property Registrations
- For regulatory structure, refer to the official STPI Website
- Exporters must also ensure GST Registration for zero-rated supplies
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is STPI in India?
STPI stands for Software Technology Parks of India, a government initiative to promote IT/ITES exports. - Is STPI registration mandatory for all IT companies?
No. It is only required for those seeking export benefits and custom exemptions. - Can startups register under STPI?
Yes. In fact, STPI actively supports startups via incubation and export-linked incentives. - What is the difference between STPI and Non-STPI?
STPI units are export-focused and bonded. Non-STPI units operate in the domestic market under limited benefits. - Is GST applicable for STPI units?
Yes, but exports are zero-rated. Refunds can be claimed under GST law. - What is SOFTEX Form?
It is a declaration form for software export invoices submitted to STPI and RBI. - Are commercial offices allowed for STPI units?
Yes, provided they are STPI-approved premises or bonded warehouses. - What happens if STPI compliance is delayed?
Penalties and cancellation of benefits may apply. Regular filing is mandatory. - Is physical presence required for STPI approval?
Only during the presentation to the STPI approval committee. - Can I switch from Non-STPI to STPI later?
Yes, subject to fresh application and compliance with bonding rules.
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