Udyam (MSME) registration
- Where: udyamregistration.gov.in only. It is free, paperless, and based on Aadhaar + PAN (GST details if you have GST).
- Who: proprietors, partnerships, LLPs and companies doing manufacturing, services or trading.
- You get: an Udyam certificate classifying you as micro, small or medium (by investment and turnover).
- Benefits: priority-sector bank loans, government schemes, tenders on gem.gov.in (sell to government), and protection against late payment.
DUNS number (D-U-N-S)
- A 9-digit global business ID from Dun & Bradstreet. It is private, not a government registration.
- Needed for: an Apple Developer account as an organisation, some global marketplaces, foreign buyers and multinational vendor onboarding.
- Where: dnb.co.in (Dun & Bradstreet India). You can request a D-U-N-S number free of charge (it may take longer); paid faster or premium options are optional. Check the current process on their site.
- You need: legal business name and address exactly as on your registration certificate, and a contact person.
Other registrations, only if they apply to you
| Registration | Needed when | Official link |
|---|---|---|
| GST | Turnover above the limit, inter-state sales, most online marketplace selling | gst.gov.in |
| Trademark | To protect your brand name and logo (apply early; you may use ™ with an unregistered mark, but ® only after registration) | ipindia.gov.in (trademarks) |
| Startup India (DPIIT) | An innovative startup that wants tax and funding benefits | startupindia.gov.in |
| IEC | Import or export of goods or services | dgft.gov.in (IEC for import/export) |
| FSSAI | Any food business, even home-based | foscos.fssai.gov.in (food licence) |
| EPF and ESIC | EPF usually from 20 employees, ESIC usually from 10 employees | epfindia.gov.in, esic.gov.in |
| Shop & Establishment, trade licence, professional tax | Depends on your state and city | nsws.gov.in (National Single Window) |
Lesson learned
Udyam is free and helps you get loans and get paid on time; get DUNS, trademark and others only when your business needs them.
Frequently asked questions
Is a DUNS number a government registration?
No. It is a private global business ID from Dun & Bradstreet. The basic number is free.
Does Udyam registration need GST?
No for most businesses; Udyam needs Aadhaar and PAN. If you have GST, its details are linked.
Last checked: November 2026. General information only, not legal or tax advice.