Shop & Establishment License

Overview

The baseline registration every establishment needs

The Shop & Establishment License (or registration) is issued under your state's Shops and Establishments Act and applies to virtually any commercial premises — shops, offices, restaurants, and service establishments alike. It's often the first legal proof of your business's existence, and a prerequisite for opening a current bank account or applying for other registrations.

Mandatory to legally operate

Running a commercial establishment without this registration is a violation of state law, inviting fines and potential closure.

Opens doors to banking & other registrations

Most banks require this certificate to open a current account, and many other licenses list it as a prerequisite document.

Protects your employees, and you

Compliance with working hours, holidays, and leave rules reduces the risk of labour disputes and inspection issues down the line.

Try it now

See your estimated tax in seconds

A quick estimate to get you started — for the exact requirements in your state, book a consultation

Tax regime

Annual income (₹)

₹

₹0₹25L₹50L+

Estimated tax payable

₹ 97,500

Effective rate 6.5% · new regime on ₹15,00,000

Taxable income₹ 14,25,000

Tax as per slabs₹ 93,750

Health & education cess (4%)+₹ 3,750

The New Regime saves you ₹ 1,59,900 compared to the Old Regime.

Illustrative estimate for FY 2025-26 — assumes salaried income eligible for the standard deduction, and includes the Section 87A rebate and 4% cess. Surcharge is applied at a flat rate without its own marginal relief. Does not account for other deductions or individual circumstances. Book a consultation for an exact figure.

Simple, from start to finish

How it works

Book a consultation

We confirm which local authority governs your establishment and what applies to your business type.

Share your documents

Securely upload address proof, identity documents, and employee details, guided step by step.

We file with the local authority

Your application is prepared and submitted to the relevant municipal or labour department.

License issued

Your Shop & Establishment License is issued, ready to display and use for other registrations.

Typically 5–10 working days (varies by state)

Questions

Frequently asked

01Does a small office or single-person business need this too?

In most states, yes — the Act applies broadly to any place where trade, business, or a profession is carried out, regardless of size, with only a few narrow exemptions.

02What happens if I operate without this license?

Inspectors can levy fines per day of non-compliance, and in some states, continued operation without registration can lead to premises being sealed.

03How long is the license valid?

Validity varies by state — some issue it for one year, others for five, with renewal required before expiry in either case.

04Can I use this certificate to open a bank account?

Yes, it's one of the most commonly accepted documents for opening a current account in your business's name, alongside PAN and address proof.

05Why book a consultation instead of registering myself?

Rules, forms, and issuing authorities differ by state and even by municipality — filing with the wrong department or missing a required attachment causes delays. We handle the right process for your specific location.

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