Shop & Establishment Registration is one of the first legal compliances required when you open a physical place of business in India. Whether you are setting up a small boutique, a coaching centre, a back‑office, or a service studio, the local labour department expects you to register the premises under the Shops and Establishments Act of the respective state.

The registration records key details such as the name and address of the business, category of activity, number of employees, and working hours. It helps the government ensure that employers follow minimum standards related to wages, leave, weekly offs, working conditions and employee welfare. Most states require businesses to apply for this licence within a specified number of days from the date of starting operations.

In practical terms, obtaining a Shop & Establishment licence acts as a basic proof of existence for your business. It is often requested by banks while opening a current account, by corporates while signing commercial agreements and by authorities during labour inspections. Securing this registration early gives your venture a legally recognised identity and demonstrates that you are committed to fair employment practices.