STPI Registration is a preferred option for software and IT-enabled service exporters in India who wish to operate under the Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) scheme. STPI units enjoy structured export compliance, infrastructure support, and easier SOFTEX certification.
This Saving Mantra blog explains the step-by-step STPI registration process in India, eligibility, documents required, timelines, benefits, and post-registration compliance—crafted to help you rank higher on Google and export software services legally and smoothly.
What is STPI?
Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) is an autonomous society under the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India. It promotes software exports and provides statutory services such as SOFTEX certification.
Who Should Apply for STPI Registration?
STPI registration is suitable for:
- Software development companies
- IT and IT-enabled service exporters
- SaaS product companies
- Startups and MSMEs exporting software
- R&D and technology service providers
Benefits of STPI Registration
- 💻 Simplified SOFTEX certification
- 💻 Strong export compliance framework
- 💻 Faster foreign remittance approvals
- 💻 Recognition as a software exporter
- 💻 Infrastructure & facilitation support
📌 Note: Income tax benefits under STPI are no longer available, but compliance benefits remain.
Step-by-Step Process for STPI Registration in India
Step 1: Incorporate Business Entity
Register your business as:
- Private Limited Company
- LLP
- Partnership / Proprietorship
Step 2: Obtain Import Export Code (IEC)
Apply for IEC from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).
Step 3: Apply for STPI Registration
- Submit online application to nearest STPI center
- Attach required documents and declarations
Step 4: Execute Legal Agreements
- Sign STPI Legal Undertaking (LUT)
- Execute bond/undertaking as prescribed
Step 5: Inspection & Approval
- STPI conducts inspection of premises (physical or virtual)
- Verifies infrastructure and export readiness
Step 6: Grant of STPI Registration Certificate
- STPI issues registration and permission letter
- Unit is recognized as an STPI-registered exporter
⏳ Timeline: 2–4 weeks (may vary by location)
Documents Required for STPI Registration
- Certificate of Incorporation
- MOA & AOA / LLP Agreement
- PAN & GST registration
- IEC certificate
- Board resolution
- Premises address proof
- Director / Partner KYC
Post-Registration Compliance
- SOFTEX filing for every export invoice
- Annual Performance Report (APR) submission
- Compliance with RBI & FEMA regulations
- Maintain export records and disclosures
Difference Between STPI and Non-STPI
| Aspect | STPI | Non-STPI |
|---|---|---|
| Registration | Required | Not required |
| SOFTEX | Through STPI | RBI-approved authority |
| Compliance | Structured | Flexible |
| Recognition | High | Moderate |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Delay in SOFTEX filing
- ❌ Incorrect export invoice details
- ❌ Missing APR submissions
- ❌ Assuming STPI gives tax benefits
Why Choose Saving Mantra for STPI Registration?
- ✔ End-to-end STPI registration support
- ✔ IEC, GST & SOFTEX assistance
- ✔ Inspection readiness & documentation
- ✔ Ongoing compliance & reporting help
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is STPI registration mandatory for software exports?
No, exporters can choose Non-STPI as well.
Q2. Is SOFTEX mandatory under STPI?
Yes, SOFTEX filing is compulsory for all exports.
Q3. Can freelancers apply for STPI registration?
Yes, freelancers can apply if export conditions are met.
Q4. Does STPI provide tax exemptions?
No, tax exemptions are no longer applicable.
Disclaimer
This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or regulatory advice. STPI, RBI, and DGFT rules may change over time. Readers are advised to consult professionals before proceeding.