Entering GIFT City
GIFT City as the door to India's market and talent; Holding, treasury and capital-raising for Indian groups abroad.
Foreign Businesses Entering India
For a foreign financial business, GIFT IFSC is often the cleanest way into India: one regulator, foreign-currency business, IFSC exchange-control treatment and, where eligible, a long tax deduction.
It is not the only way in, and for some businesses an onshore presence suits better. The first conversation should compare both.
A global group comparing GIFT City with onshore India
A board wants to know which route serves its India strategy.
A side-by-side analysis of the IFSC and onshore routes for its activity.
The steps
- Map the activity to both regimes.
- Compare capital, people, tax and time.
- Decide, or plan both.
Points that need care
- The routes are compared within one activity only.
A group comparing GIFT City with Singapore or Dubai
A board is choosing its Asian or Middle East hub.
A structured comparison on regulation, tax, treaties, talent and access to India.
The steps
- Score each centre on evidence.
- Plan the transition.
A foreign group's first step into India
A group wants a small presence before committing.
A GIC, ancillary office or sandbox entry, depending on the business.
The steps
- Choose the lightest framework that fits.
- Plan the path to a full licence.
Indian Groups Going Global
Indian groups use GIFT IFSC to centralise overseas treasury, hold foreign investments, raise foreign capital and list directly. Every route starts with overseas direct investment from the Indian parent.
For units commencing on or after 1 April 2026, section 147(5) excludes units formed by splitting up or reconstructing an existing business. Structure carefully.
An Indian group setting up an IFSC finance or holding unit
A parent wants an IFSC entity for group financing or holdings.
An ODI into an IFSC entity under the relevant framework.
The steps
- Make the ODI filings.
- Test section 147(5).
- Register with IFSCA and the SEZ authorities.
Points that need care
- Splitting-up and reconstruction test.
A promoter raising foreign capital through a direct listing
A group wants foreign investors without leaving India.
Direct listing on an IFSC exchange.
The steps
- Check eligibility.
- Prepare approvals and the offer document.
A group moving an overseas subsidiary's business to GIFT City
A group wants to bring an offshore entity's business home.
Relocation into an IFSC unit.
The steps
- Plan the transfer abroad.
- Register the IFSC entity.
Points that need care
- Tax in the origin jurisdiction.
Talk to the firm about your plans.
A short note on what you are setting up is enough for a first conversation. No confidential information is needed at this stage.
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