Every commercial establishment operating in India — from shops and restaurants to offices, hotels, and warehouses — must register under the Shops and Establishments Act of their respective state. This registration, commonly called a Gumasta License (in Maharashtra) or Shop Act License, is typically one of the first registrations a new business must obtain.
What is Shop Act Registration?
The Shops and Establishments Act is a state-level legislation that regulates:
Each state has its own version of this Act with slightly different rules. Registration is mandatory for all commercial establishments employing one or more workers.
- ▸Working hours of employees
- ▸Opening and closing times of establishments
- ▸Holidays and leave entitlements
- ▸Employment of women and children
- ▸Wages and payment
Who Needs Gumasta/Shop Act Registration?
Mandatory for:
Exempt in most states: Government offices, railway administrations, central government undertakings
- ▸Retail shops and showrooms
- ▸Offices (IT companies, consultancies, CA firms, advocates)
- ▸Hotels, restaurants, cloud kitchens, cafes
- ▸Cinemas, theatres, and amusement parks
- ▸Warehouses and depots
- ▸Factories not covered under Factories Act
- ▸Home-based businesses (in some states)
Documents Required
- ▸PAN Card of proprietor / partners / directors
- ▸Aadhaar Card of applicant
- ▸Business address proof (rental agreement or owned property documents)
- ▸Photograph of the establishment
- ▸Business registration document (if company/LLP)
- ▸Employee list with designations
- ▸Electricity bill / gas bill of the establishment
How to Apply Online (Maharashtra Example)
Step 1: Visit aaplesarkar.mahaonline.gov.in
Step 2: Click "New Registration" → Select "Shop and Establishment Registration"
Step 3: Fill Form A — employer and establishment details
Step 4: Upload required documents
Step 5: Pay fee online (₹100–₹1,000 depending on employee count)
Step 6: Submit — Certificate issued within 15 days
For other states: Visit your state's labour department portal.
Fees (Maharashtra)
| Employees | Fee |
|---|---|
| 0 employees | ₹100 |
| 1–9 employees | ₹300 |
| 10–19 employees | ₹600 |
| 20+ employees | ₹1,000 |
Key Compliance After Registration
- ▸Display the registration certificate at the establishment
- ▸Maintain attendance and wage register
- ▸Provide weekly off as per state rules
- ▸Inform the authority within 30 days of any change (address, employer, name)
- ▸Renew the license before expiry
Conclusion
Shop Act registration is one of the most fundamental compliance requirements for any business establishment. Biswa Corporate Solutions helps you obtain your Gumasta License quickly — document collection, online filing, and certificate delivery — without you having to visit any government office.
