Non-STPI Registration and SOFTEX Compliance
The Software Technology Parks of India has been set up by the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology for promoting the export of software from India. Companies which are into export of Software or into providing any IT or IT enabled services are required to obtain a Non-STPI registration.
What is difference between STPI and NON-STPI Registration?
STPI registration is primarily for a entities who want to set up business operations in Electronic Hardware Technology Park (EHTP) and Software Technology Parks (STP). These business units will be into 100% export-oriented business and they carry several incentives from the STPI authorities. On the other hand NON-STPI registration is applicable to business units who are not located in EHTP or STP and they are in to export of software or IT/ITES enabled services. By having NON STPI registration there is no tax incentive or any benefits available to business units. However, this is a regulatory requirement to comply with the provisions of the law.
Softex filing became mandatory with the introduction of FEMA (Export of Goods and Services) Regulations 2000. In September 2013 RBI mandated filing softex for exporter even having a transaction volume less than $25,000.
Who can register for NON-STPI?
The type of entities like Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, LLP, Private Limited and Public limited who are in to export of Software or IT/ITES enabled services need to get registered with local STPI office.
Procedure for non-STPI registration in India is as follows:
The entity must create user id and password in STPI portal.(https://stpionline.stpi.in/unit/jindex.php)
Fill the Non-STPI application with a details like company name, address, List of Director, projected export Turnover, Present and projected investment details and Bank details and AD code of the banker.
Attach business units basic documents like Incorporation Certificate, office address proof, PAN, MOA,AOA/Partnership deed, Company profile etc.
Submit application online and pay a fee of Rs. 1180/- online.
Department will review the application, once approved certificate will be generated online.
Thereafter Softex can be filed online.
This certificate will have a validity for a period of 3 years.
The post compliance requirements for non-STPI units are as follows:
Non-STPI units have to submit quarterly and annual returns as per the formats prescribed under STPI guidelines.
Non-STPI units should pay annual service charges upfront based on expected turnover. Service Charges list is given below.
Once Softex is filed online, department will review and acknowledge the softex. This Softex form approved by department will have a Digital signature of the approving officer.
Softex approved copy should be submitted to AD-Bank for their record, with this business unit will be complied with FEMA (Export of Goods and Services) Regulations.
Service charges levied for non-STPI registered units
Documents required for non-STPI registration
Certificate of Incorporation of the Company
Partnership Deed in case of Partnership
LLP Agreement in case of LLP
Memorandum of Association
Articles of Association
Company information including profile of Directors
Bank AD Code letter
Internet Bill in the name of the company
Details of employees working for the company
For any further details about STPI/NON-STPI registration please write an email to vighnesh@bclindia.in.