Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up an STPI Unit in India

India has emerged as a global hub for software and IT-enabled services (ITES) exports, and the Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) scheme has played a big role in this growth. Even though the earlier tax holidays are no longer available, STPI registration in India continues to offer valuable benefits such as duty-free imports, simplified foreign exchange compliance, and stronger credibility with international clients.

If you’re a startup, mid-sized company, or established IT firm looking to expand exports, here’s a simple step-by-step guide to setting up an STPI unit in India.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

To qualify as an STPI unit:

• Your business must be engaged in software development, IT services, SaaS, or IT-enabled services.
• At least 100% of your production should be for export. Domestic sales are allowed only with specific approval.
• The company should be incorporated in India (Private Limited Company or LLP).

Step 2: Incorporate and Get Registrations

• Register your entity under the Companies Act, 2013, or as an LLP.
• Obtain PAN, TAN, GST registration, and an Import Export Code (IEC).
• Open a current bank account to handle foreign exchange.
• Ensure your Memorandum of Association (MoA) or LLP Agreement includes software development and exports as part of your business activities.

Step 3: Identify Your STPI Jurisdiction

STPI has centres across India in both metro and smaller cities. Locate the regional centre where your office is based, as this will handle your application and ongoing compliance.

Step 4: Prepare the Required Documents

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Certificate of Incorporation, MoA, and AoA (or LLP Agreement).
• PAN, GST, and IEC certificates.
• Lease agreement or ownership proof for your office space (minimum three years is preferred).
• A project report covering business plan, export projections, forex inflows, manpower, and infrastructure.
• Board resolution authorising the application.
• Audited financial statements if the company already exists.

Step 5: File the STPI Application

• Submit the application form online via the STPI portal along with scanned documents.
• Pay the prescribed application fee online.
• Send signed hard copies of the form and enclosures to the jurisdictional STPI centre.

Step 6: Approval and Letter of Permission (LoP)

Once your documents and premises are verified, STPI issues a Letter of Permission (LoP), generally valid for five years. The LoP defines your approved activities, export obligations, and compliance requirements.

Step 7: Customs Bonding and Agreements

To benefit from duty-free imports, you must:

• Sign a legal agreement with STPI.
• Get your premises bonded by Customs.
• Execute a bond (commonly the B-17 Bond) for duty-free import of capital goods.

Step 8: Begin Operations

With your LoP and bonding complete, you can start exports. Key points:

• All export invoices must be certified by STPI through SOFTEX forms.
• You can import eligible hardware and software without paying customs duties.

Step 9: Stay Compliant with STPI Rules

Compliance is critical for maintaining your STPI status. Regular requirements include:

• Monthly Progress Reports (MPRs): details of manpower, forex inflows, and production.
• Quarterly Reports (QPRs): export performance and progress.
• Annual Performance Reports (APRs): audited accounts, export turnover, and employment figures.
• SOFTEX filings: certification of all export invoices.
• Customs compliance: tracking and reporting of duty-free imported goods.

Setting up a compliance calendar can help avoid penalties or delays.

Benefits of Setting Up an STPI Unit in India

• Duty-free imports of capital goods, software, and hardware.
• Simplified foreign exchange compliance with RBI and other regulators.
• Credibility with global clients, banks, and investors.
• 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) permitted under the automatic route.
• Permission for limited domestic sales, subject to approval.
• Access to government-supported infrastructure in IT hubs across India.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting incomplete or unrealistic project reports.
• Short-term or informal office lease agreements.
• Delayed SOFTEX filings, which can affect forex realisation.
• Poor record-keeping of bonded imports.

By planning ahead and keeping documentation in order, you can avoid these hurdles.

Quick STPI Setup Checklist

1. Incorporate the company and get PAN, GST, and IEC.

2. Choose your STPI jurisdiction and secure premises.

3. Prepare documents and project report.

4. File the online application and submit hard copies.

5. Obtain Letter of Permission (LoP).

6. Sign legal agreements and complete Customs bonding.

7. Start exports and duty-free imports.

8. File monthly, quarterly, and annual compliance reports.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is STPI registration in India? STPI registration allows IT and ITES companies to operate as Software Technology Park units, giving them benefits like duty-free imports and simplified foreign exchange compliance.

2. What are the benefits of an STPI unit? Key benefits include duty-free import of capital goods, global credibility, 100% FDI approval, and simplified compliance with regulators.

3. How long is the Letter of Permission (LoP) valid? The LoP is usually valid for five years and can be renewed upon meeting compliance requirements.

4. Can an STPI unit sell in the domestic market? Yes, but only with specific permissions and subject to certain limits under the policy.

5. Do startups also qualify for STPI registration? Yes. Startups engaged in IT or IT-enabled services can apply for STPI registration as long as they meet the eligibility criteria.

Final Word

Setting up an STPI unit in India is more than just a compliance step—it’s a strategic move that helps IT and ITES companies access global markets smoothly. With duty-free imports, credibility, and streamlined processes, the STPI scheme remains one of the most effective ways to strengthen your export business.

At Unnathi Partners, we simplify this journey by guiding you through applications, bonding, and compliance so you can focus on scaling your business while we handle the details.