Launching a new business? Congratulations!
You’ve got the idea, the vision, maybe even a killer logo — but now comes the paperwork. And suddenly you’re hit with a barrage of registrations: Udyam, MSME, GST, Startup India — and the question that haunts every entrepreneur:
Which one do I need to do first?
We get it — it’s confusing. That’s why we’re breaking it down for you. No jargon. No government lingo. Just simple, straight-up advice to help you choose the right registration at the right time.
Let’s dive in like a curious entrepreneur trying to build an empire — because that’s exactly what you are.
🔍 First Things First: Why Registrations Even Matter?
Imagine you’re opening a cafe. You’ve got great coffee, a trendy vibe, and word is spreading. But then the trouble starts. You can’t access loans. You can’t open a current bank account. You can’t issue proper invoices. You’re technically invisible.
That’s why business registrations are non-negotiable. They give your business:
- Legal recognition
- Access to government schemes
- Credibility with customers and partners
- Easier funding and taxation
Now let’s figure out the order in which you should get your house in order.
☝️ Step 1: Udyam Registration (Previously MSME)
What is it?
Udyam Registration is the new name for MSME registration, and it’s the best first step for most micro, small, and medium businesses.
It’s 100% online, free, and requires only your Aadhaar. No documents. No uploads. Sounds unreal, right?
Why is it important?
- You become eligible for low-interest loans
- You get protection against delayed payments
- Access to subsidies, tenders, and government schemes
- Better chances when applying for bank credit
Who should get it?
If your business is already earning or producing goods/services, and falls under the MSME category (micro, small or medium in size based on turnover/investment), this should be your first pit stop.
📌 Pro Tip: Even service-based freelancers and consultants can apply.
💼 Step 2: GST Registration (If You Hit the Threshold or Want to Scale)
What is it?
GST (Goods and Services Tax) is a mandatory tax registration if your annual turnover crosses ₹40 lakh (₹20 lakh for service-based businesses in most states).
Why should you care?
- Lets you sell legally on e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, etc.
- Makes you eligible for tax input credit
- Adds professionalism and transparency
- Required for interstate sales
Who needs it first?
If you’re:
- Dealing in physical goods
- Serving clients across states
- Planning to work with corporates or large firms
…then GST registration should come immediately after Udyam, or even first if you’re going big from Day 1.
📌 Heads up: GST compliance is serious business — once registered, you must file regular returns, even if you had no sales.
🚀 Step 3: Startup India Registration (If You’re Tech-Driven or Disruptive)
What is it?
Startup India is the flagship initiative to encourage innovation, job creation, and tech-driven startups. It gives you recognition as a startup by DPIIT (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade).
What do you get?
- Tax holiday for 3 years
- Fast-track patent filing
- Access to ₹10,000 crore Fund of Funds
- Networking opportunities and incubator support
When should you go for it?
If your business is:
- Tech-based, or product-driven
- Less than 10 years old
- Has an innovative or scalable model
Then this registration is a power move for growth, investment, and visibility.
📌 Fun Fact: You don’t need to be a unicorn to register — even small startups with ambition and potential are eligible.
🧭 So, What’s the Right Order?
Here’s a recommended registration sequence based on your business stage:
👶 Just Starting (Low revenue, early-stage)
- Udyam
- Startup India (if eligible)
- GST (only if turnover requires)
💼 Already Earning (Goods or services sold actively)
- Udyam
- GST
- Startup India (if eligible)
🚀 Ready to Scale (Looking for funding, tech/startup model)
- Startup India
- Udyam
- GST
🧾 Bonus: Other Registrations You Might Need
- FSSAI – If you’re into food-related business
- Shop & Establishment License – For physical stores/offices
- Import Export Code (IEC) – If you plan to go global
- Trademark Registration – Protect your brand identity
📌 Don’t stress. Most of these can be done online with basic documents.
🛠 Tools & Platforms That Make It Easy
Here are some platforms that help you register quickly without the headache:
You can also use private platforms for help, but make sure they’re verified and transparent.
🧘 Final Thoughts: Don’t Overthink It
The key is to start small, think big, and register smart. You don’t need to do everything on Day 1 — just what’s right for your business stage.
Every registration unlocks new doors — be it funding, credibility, or tax benefits. And trust us, once you’ve got your legal checklist sorted, you’ll feel like a proper boss (because you are).
If you’re still confused, bookmark this post. Or better — share it with your entrepreneur friends who are stuck in the same boat.
✨ Quick FAQ (Because We Know You’re Busy)
Q: Can I apply for all registrations at once?
Yes, but only if your business activity justifies each one. Don’t register just for the sake of it.
Q: What if I don’t do any of these?
You might miss out on benefits, face penalties, or struggle to grow. So better safe than sorry.
Q: Is there a registration that gives me all benefits at once?
Not really. Each registration serves a unique purpose.
📢 Wrapping Up: Be Registered, Be Ready
Running a business isn’t just about hustle — it’s also about having your paperwork in place. Whether you’re a side hustler, freelancer, shop owner, or building the next big tech unicorn, these registrations are your foundation.
So don’t wait for “some day.” Start registering today.
You’ve got a business to build.