Overview
We manage the RBI/AD Bank approval, registration and the ongoing reporting a liaison office must file.
It is funded by the parent and cannot earn income in India.
What's included
- Eligibility assessment
- RBI/AD Bank application
- Registration
- Annual reporting setup
How we approach it
Frequently asked questions
Can a liaison office earn income in India?
No — it can only undertake liaison/representative activities funded by the parent.
Is RBI approval required?
Yes, via the AD Bank route.
How long can it operate?
It is approved for a period and renewed subject to conditions.
How long is a liaison office approval typically valid for?
Usually 3 years initially (longer for specific sectors like banking and insurance), renewable subject to RBI conditions and satisfactory compliance.
Can a liaison office be converted into a branch or subsidiary later?
Yes, if your India activities expand beyond liaison work, we can advise on converting to a branch office or incorporating a subsidiary as the next step.
What activities are explicitly NOT allowed for a liaison office?
It cannot undertake any commercial, trading or industrial activity, or earn any income in India directly or indirectly — its role is limited to representing and liaising for the parent.
Talk to us about Liaison Office Set-up.
Rashmi K.S. & Associates · Practising Company Secretaries · Balewadi, Pune