Planning to start a business in Maharashtra? Whether you’re launching a cozy retail store, opening a consultancy, or setting up a company, one of the first legal requirements you’ll need to meet is obtaining a Shop Act License, popularly known as the Gumasta License.

As per the Maharashtra Shops and Establishments (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 2017, every business operating in a commercial space must register under this Act within 30 days of starting operations. The license is essential for sole proprietors, partnerships, LLPs, and private limited companies, and ensures that your business is compliant with labor laws and working condition standards set by the state.

In simple terms, if you’re starting any type of business in India that involves a physical setup—like a shop, office, or commercial unit—you’ll need the Shop and Establishment License from your respective state government. In Maharashtra, this license is referred to locally as the Gumasta License. It serves as a formal registration for your business and also plays a vital role in safeguarding employee rights.

Registering under the Shop Act brings several key benefits:

• Legal Identity: It’s essential for proving your business’s legitimacy.
• Bank Requirements: You’ll need this certificate to open a business current account.
• Employee Protection: Ensures your workers are treated fairly under labor laws.
• Government Schemes: Helps you qualify for state and central government benefits.
• Professional Credibility: Builds trust with clients, vendors, and partners.

All commercial establishments operating in Maharashtra need to register, including:

• Retail shops
• Service providers
• Freelancers or consultants with offices
• Startups and small businesses
• Proprietors, partnerships, LLPs, and companies

Even if you have zero employees, registration is still mandatory.

Here’s a quick checklist of documents typically needed:

• Aadhar Card and PAN Card of the applicant
• Colour photo of the applicant
• Address proof of the business (e.g., electricity bill)
• Rent Agreement or ownership proof
• Photo of the shop/office showing the nameboard in Marathi
• Mobile number and email ID
• Certificate of Incorporation or Partnership Deed (if applicable)

Shop Act Registration/ Gumasta License Government Fees

• 0–9 Employees: ₹25 (Nominal one-time fee)
• 10 or More Employees: The fee varies depending on the number of employees and license duration (1 to 3 years)

Validity and Renewal Shop Act Registration/ Gumasta License

• If your business has fewer than 10 employees, your license is generally valid for a lifetime—no renewal needed.
• Establishments with 10 or more employees must renew their license every 1–3 years, depending on the period selected during registration.

• 0–9 Employees: ₹25 (Nominal one-time fee)
• 10 or More Employees: The fee varies depending on the number of employees and license duration (1 to 3 years)

• If your business has fewer than 10 employees, your license is generally valid for a lifetime—no renewal needed.
• Establishments with 10 or more employees must renew their license every 1–3 years, depending on the period selected during registration.