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Overview

International Subsidiary Setup

Setting up an international subsidiary allows businesses to establish a legally independent entity in a foreign country while maintaining ownership and control from the parent company. This helps in global expansion, accessing new markets, and optimizing tax benefits. The process involves business registration, tax compliance, banking setup, and local regulatory approvals based on the country of incorporation.

Important

1. Access to Global Markets : Expands business reach beyond domestic boundaries.

2. Legal & Tax Benefits : Takes advantage of tax treaties, lower tax rates, and investment incentives.

3. Limited Liability & Risk Protection : The subsidiary operates as a separate legal entity, reducing parent company liability.

4. Ease of Local Hiring & Compliance : Allows companies to hire employees under local labor laws.

5. Enhanced Brand Presence & Credibility : Establishing a physical presence strengthens trust among international customers and investors.



Documents Required

For Business Registration in a Foreign Country


For Banking & Tax Complianceal




Features

Features & Benefits of International Subsidiary Setup

Legal Independence from Parent
Subsidiaries operate as separate legal entities.
Multiple Business Structures Available
Options include Wholly-Owned Subsidiary, Joint Venture, or Branch Office.
Requires Compliance with Local Laws
Must follow corporate tax laws, labor laws, and business regulations.
FDI Regulations Apply
Indian companies must comply with FEMA & RBI guidelines.
Access to Local Banking
Can open corporate bank accounts and access business loans.

International Subsidiary Setup

Eases Market Entry & Global Expansion
Helps businesses establish a local presence in international markets.
Tax Incentives & Business-Friendly
Some countries offer tax benefits for foreign investors.
International Hiring & Payroll
Allows companies to hire local employees and comply with employment laws.
Eligible for Trade & Investment Benefits
Can access government grants, subsidies, and incentives.
Can Enter Into Contracts & Business
The subsidiary can independently sign contracts and leases.



Comparison with Related Services

Feature International Subsidiary Setup Foreign Branch Office Representative Office Export-Import Business
Legal Independence Yes No (Dependent on Parent Company) No Not Applicable
Requires Business Registration Yes Yes Yes No
Tax Liability Yes Taxed as part of Parent Company No Tax Liability Taxation on Imports/Exports
Can Hire Local Employees Yes Yes No No
Local Banking Setup Yes Yes No Yes
Compliance with Local Laws Yes Yes Limited Yes
Business Expansion Scope High Moderate Limited High
Approval from RBI/FEMA (For Indian Companies) Yes Yes Yes No
Ideal for Full-Scale Foreign Operations Extending Business Operations Market Research & Representation International Trading



Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an international subsidiary and a foreign branch?

A subsidiary is a separate legal entity, whereas a branch office operates under the parent company’s legal identity.

How does an Indian company set up an international subsidiary?

Indian companies must follow FEMA & RBI guidelines, obtain board approval, register the subsidiary in the foreign country, and comply with tax laws.

What are the tax implications of setting up a foreign subsidiary?

Taxation depends on the country, but most subsidiaries pay corporate taxes in the foreign country and may have tax treaty benefits with India.

Can an international subsidiary operate independently from the parent company?

Yes, an international subsidiary is legally separate and can enter contracts, open bank accounts, and hire employees independently.

Do I need a local partner to set up a foreign subsidiary?

In some countries, foreign ownership restrictions may apply, requiring a local partner or investor.

6. How long does it take to register a foreign subsidiary?

The registration process takes between 1-3 months, depending on the country and business structure.

Can a foreign subsidiary repatriate profits to the parent company?

Yes, profits can be legally transferred back to the parent company after complying with taxation and repatriation rules.

What are the best countries to set up an international subsidiary?

Popular choices include USA, Singapore, UAE, UK, Canada, and Germany due to business-friendly regulations and tax benefits.