Overview of the Shops & Establishments Act

The Shop and Establishment License, also known as **Gumasta Registration**, is a legal requirement for all businesses operating in Maharashtra. It is governed by the **Maharashtra Shops & Establishments (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 2017**. This registration is crucial for a business to be legally recognized, enabling it to open bank accounts, apply for loans, and comply with state labor regulations. The registration process is managed online through official government portals, making it a streamlined and transparent experience.

Application Process Based on Employee Count

The registration process is different depending on the number of employees in your establishment. The Act makes a clear distinction between these two categories:

For Establishments with 0 to 9 Employees:

Businesses with fewer than 10 employees must file an online **Intimation** rather than a full registration. This is done by submitting **Form F**. Upon successful submission, a digitally signed receipt is generated immediately, which serves as a valid proof of registration.

For Establishments with 10 or More Employees:

Businesses with 10 or more employees are required to complete a formal **Registration** by submitting **Form A**. The application is scrutinized by a Labor Officer, and upon approval, a registration certificate is issued.

Step-by-Step Online Application Guide

The primary portals for both intimation and registration are the Aaple Sarkar and Labour Management System (LMS) websites.

1. Visit the Official Portal: Go to the official Labour Management System (LMS) portal or the Aaple Sarkar website.
2. Register and Login: Create a new user profile using your mobile number and email ID. If you have an existing account, simply log in.
3. Select the Service: Navigate to the "Labour Department" services and select "Shops & Establishment Registration." Choose the appropriate form (Form F for 0-9 employees or Form A for 10+ employees).
4. Fill the Application Form: Fill in all the required details about your business, including the name, address, nature of business, and employee information.
5. Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of the required documents (see list below).
6. Submit and Pay: Submit the form. For establishments with 10 or more employees, a nominal fee may be required. The 0-9 employee intimation is generally free.

Required Documents for Online Application

The following documents are typically required for the application process:

• Photo of the Establishment: A clear photo of the business premises showing the signboard with the name of the establishment prominently displayed in Marathi.
• Proof of Identity: Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, or Passport of the proprietor/partners/directors.
• Proof of Address: Rent Agreement, Electricity Bill, or property tax receipt for the business premises.
• Self-Declaration: A self-declaration form as required by the Act.
• Additional Documents (if applicable): Partnership Deed, Memorandum of Association (MOA), or a Certificate of Incorporation.

Important Official Portals and Resources

• Labour Management System (LMS): The main portal for applying for a Shop & Establishment license. https://lms.mahaonline.gov.in/
• Aaple Sarkar MahaOnline Portal: A multi-service platform where you can also access the Shops & Establishment service. https://aaplesarkar.mahaonline.gov.in/
• Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC): Provides specific services for businesses in Mumbai. https://portal.mcgm.gov.in/irj/portal/anonymous/qlshopregFormA?guest_user=english

It is mandatory to register within 60 days of the commencement of your business to avoid penalties and legal issues.