All the businesses in India come under the Shops and Establishments Act, which is a state-based registration. Each state has its own Act with slight variations but generally follows the same provisions. It is mandatory for every new establishment to get registered within 30 days from the commencement of the business. The main objective of the Act is to ensure proper working conditions, regulate employee benefits, and enforce compliance with state laws.

• Maximum hours of work, annual leave, weekly holidays
• Wages and Compensation
• Prohibition of child labour
• Restrictions on employing women and young persons in night shifts
• Leave Policy and Accident Coverage
• Workplace cleanliness and hygiene
• Opening and closing hours
• Rest intervals for employees
• Proper record keeping of employees
• Dismissal provisions
• Inspection and Enforcement mechanisms

• Provides legal recognition to the business
• Acts as proof of business for legal and financial work
• Helps in opening business bank accounts
• Facilitates fundraising through loans or venture capital
• Allows access to government schemes for small businesses
• Promotes ease of doing business and business expansion

Shop and Establishment Registration is Applicable to all type of businesses or Professions or Shops or Commercial establishments, following are few of the examples (list is not exhaustive):

• Remote or Virtual offices
• Wholesale and retail shops
• Warehouses, storerooms, and other commercial establishments
• Service-based establishments
• Workhouses and office spaces
• Theatres and amusement parks
• Hotels, restaurants, and eateries
• Places of public entertainment

• Name and address of the establishment
• ID proof of the employer
• Establishment address proof
• PAN Card of the establishment
• Details of the employees
• Photograph of the establishment with employer
• Cancelled cheque and bank statement
• Utility bill of the premises
• Sale deed or rent agreement (if property is rented)

• Step 1: Documentation
• Step 2: Initiate Registration
• Step 3: OTP Verification
• Step 4: Acknowledgment Generation
• Step 5: Department Query and Reply Filings
• Step 6: Final Approval and Issuance of License

Documentation and Information Validation – 2 Days

Application Filing – 1 Day

Issuance of Licence – 6–10 Days (Subject to departmental approvals)

All businesses under the Act are legally bound to obtain the registration and follow all the state rules and regulations. Non-compliance can result in penalties, which vary from state to state. Penalties apply for both failing to obtain the license and for violating operational provisions under the Act.

Finaurt will guide you through every step of getting your Shops and Establishment Licence. From document drafting to application filing and follow-ups, our experts handle it all with up-to-date legal knowledge and responsive support to ensure a seamless and stress-free process.