India has become one of the most attractive destinations for global businesses seeking to expand into Asia. With a growing economy, favorable policies, and access to a large consumer base, many foreign companies are choosing to establish a wholly owned subsidiary in India as their preferred entry strategy.

What is a Wholly Owned Subsidiary?

A wholly owned subsidiary is an Indian company in which a foreign parent company holds 100% of the equity shares. Although it operates as a separate legal entity under the Companies Act, 2013, the parent company maintains complete control over its operations, finances, and management.

When a foreign enterprise sets up a wholly owned subsidiary of foreign company in India, it not only gains local credibility but also enjoys the benefits of complete ownership and decision-making power.

Why Establish a Wholly Owned Subsidiary in India?

Many global businesses prefer this model for several reasons:

1. Full Control

The parent company retains 100% ownership, ensuring complete authority over governance, strategy, and financial decisions.

2. Limited Liability

As a separate legal entity, the subsidiary limits the parent company’s liability only to the extent of its investment.

3. Ease of Investment

In many industries, 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is permitted under the automatic route, removing the need for prior government approvals.

4. Local Credibility

A wholly owned subsidiary registered in India builds stronger trust among customers, regulators, vendors, and employees.

5. Tax & Structural Flexibility

Such entities can leverage tax incentives, deductions, and business structuring options that are not available to liaison or branch offices.

Steps to Set Up a Wholly Owned Subsidiary of Foreign Company in India

Creating a wholly owned subsidiary requires following certain legal and regulatory procedures:

Choose the Type of Company Decide whether to register as a Private Limited or Public Limited Company. Most foreign companies prefer the private limited structure.

Reserve a Company Name Apply to the Registrar of Companies (RoC) for name approval, ensuring it meets legal requirements.

Draft Incorporation Documents Prepare the Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA), reflecting the foreign parent as the sole shareholder.

Meet Capital & Shareholding Rules Even with 100% ownership, Indian law may require a minimum of two shareholders and a specified paid-up capital.

File Incorporation Documents Submit shareholder, director, and company details to the RoC or Company Registration Center (CRC).

Comply with FDI Rules Route investments through RBI-approved banking channels and follow disclosure requirements.

Register for Licenses & Tax Obtain PAN, TAN, GST, and any sector-specific approvals.

Begin Operations Open a corporate bank account, hire employees, and establish office infrastructure.

Key Approvals & Formalities

Automatic vs. Government Route: Many sectors allow up to 100% FDI automatically. Restricted sectors require government approval.

RBI Compliance: All foreign investments must be reported to the Reserve Bank of India.

RoC Filings: Annual filings, statements, and disclosures are mandatory.

Ongoing Compliance: Statutory audits, board meetings, and tax filings are required under the Companies Act.

Benefits and Challenges

✅ Benefits

Complete Ownership & Control over strategy and operations.

Enhanced Reputation in the Indian market.

Profit Repatriation to the parent company with legal ease.

Full Operational Rights to carry out business activities without restrictions faced by liaison or branch offices.

⚠️ Challenges

Regulatory Compliance can be complex and time-consuming.

Higher Costs due to audits, corporate governance, and administrative requirements.

Taxation on profits and repatriation must be managed efficiently.

Sectoral Restrictions may apply in certain industries.

Is a Wholly Owned Subsidiary Right for You?

This business model works best for companies that:

Want full control over their Indian operations.

Operate in sectors that allow 100% FDI.

Have sufficient resources to handle regulatory and operational costs.

Plan for a long-term presence in India.

Conclusion

Setting up a wholly owned subsidiary in India offers global businesses unmatched control, credibility, and growth opportunities. However, establishing a wholly owned subsidiary of foreign company in India also involves strict compliance, taxation considerations, and sector-specific regulations.