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A direct India presence as an extension of the foreign parent, for defined, permitted activities.
Extension of the foreign parent
Scope reviewed up front
Branch, subsidiary, liaison, project
Extension of the parent
Permitted activities only
Against other routes
A foreign company may consider a branch office to build a direct presence in India while operating as an extension of its foreign parent.
Unlike a subsidiary, a branch office is not a separate Indian company. It is tied to the foreign entity and is generally limited to specified activities. It can suit permitted business without forming a full subsidiary, but scope, tax treatment, reporting, and the link to the parent differ significantly, so it needs careful review.
Wanting a direct India presence linked to the parent.
Businesses with permitted activities rather than broad operations.
Groups comparing branch, subsidiary, liaison, and project routes.
A branch office is not a universal entry solution. The first step is to check whether the intended activity is permitted, how much operational flexibility is needed, whether staff will be hired or Indian contracts entered, and whether a subsidiary is a better long-term platform.
Eraqus helps assess fit with your business model, regulatory route, documentation, parent requirements, authorised representative details, financial background, tax, ongoing reporting, and possible closure or restructuring.
Whether the intended activity can be carried out through a branch office.
Tax treatment and reporting differ from a subsidiary.
Parent financial background and supporting documentation.
Authorised representative in India and ongoing reporting.
Comparison with subsidiary, liaison office, and project office routes.
A branch office works well when the purpose is clear and the permitted activity matches the parent’s India plan. Choose it only after comparing with a subsidiary, liaison office, project office, or joint venture.
No. A subsidiary is a separate Indian company, while a branch office is an extension of the foreign parent. Tax and reporting treatment differ.
No. A branch office is limited to permitted activities, so the intended activity should be reviewed before choosing this route.
A separate Indian company wholly owned by the foreign parent.
Describe where your business stands and what you plan next. The team will help you understand the structure, documentation, and compliance that fit your situation.
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