Apply Online for Trade License in Kerala - Process, Documents & Fees
General Trade License is a requirement for all businesses operating in Kerala. It allows them to operate legally and conduct commercial transactions, while also ensuring that they comply with municipal laws. The Municipal Corporations of Kerala is responsible for issuing or renewing trade permits under Section447 of the Kerala Municipality Act 1994. This license helps businesses to adhere to the state's regulations, ensure transparency and avoid legal complications.
Professional Utilities offers expert assistance for the application of a trade license in Kerala. Our team assists businesses to apply and obtain a trade licence in Kerala quickly, and ensures timely processing and approval.
We can help you with your new business venture, or a trade license renewal . Our services are available in Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Kozhikode, Thrissur, Kollam, Kannur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kottayam, Alappuzha, and other key commercial hub. Contact Professional Utilities today to get a hassle-free process for applying for a trade license in Kerala.
Trade Certificate [Sample]
What is a Trade License in Kerala
To start a business in Kerala and execute commercial activities, an entity must follow the law and obtain a Trade License. A Trade License in Kerala permits them to sell, purchase or trade of commodities and services with compliance with the legal framework. The Trade License in Kerala is to ensure that the entities adhere to the rules established by the Municipal Corporations so that consumers' can trust the business and the entities hold credibility. Various types and categories of trade licenses are offered by the Municipal Corporations apart from a trade license in Kerala. Entities are required to satisfy the standard criteria and regulations of the authorities to acquire a trade license in Kerala.
Benefits of a Trade License in Kerala
The Trade License in Kerala is to ensure that the businesses are obliged to the laws and regulations set by the authorities. Some of the benefits that entities get with a trade license in Kerala are listed below.
- Businesses with a trade license in Kerala have to comply with the rules to avoid imposition of penalties and legal consequences.
- The Trade License in Kerala is significant to ensure that the entities hold credibility and consistent consumer trust.
- Businesses with a trade license in Kerala benefit from a positive image and stand out amongst competitors.
- The businesses are required to obtain a general trade license in Kerala to comply with the set regulations and continue to conduct business conveniently.
Process to get a Trade License in Kerala
Entities that engage in commercial activities must abide by the law and acquire a trade license in Kerala by filling out the application form on the official website of the authorities with all the mandatory and specific details for the trade license in Kerala.
Step 1: Personal Details
Businesses may fill out their personal details in the application form.
Step 2: Classification of Trade
The information about the premises, description and category is to be filled for a trade license in Kerala.
Step 3: Property Details
The businesses are required to provide details about property, unit area, address of unit and more.
Step 4: Establishment Details
The application form mandates information about establishment, type of constitution, and partner’s list.
Step 5: Required Documents
Businesses may upload the required and specified documents as per the application form of general trade license.
Step 6: Online Payment
The application fee of the general trade license is to be paid by the candidates.
Once the above listed steps are completed, candidates can download the trade license in Kerala through their dashboard by logging in.
Documents Required for Trade License in Kerala
The required documents that the businesses would need to submit to get a trade license in Kerala are listed below.
- Identity proof (with photograph) such as Aadhar card/ voter id/ pan card/ valid Indian passport/ permanent driving license, bank passbook with photograph and signature.
- Photograph of the establishment from the front, including commodities that are traded from the premises or the business being executed from the premises.
- Proof of legal occupancy of the establishment or allotment letter of government agency/ tenancy proof/ electricity/ water connection bill/ landline telephone bill/ lease deed/ sale deed/ GPA.
Fees for Trade License in Kerala
The table below displays the fee that is charged by the government for a trade license in Kerala and it is categorized as per the localities and size of the infrastructure which will be premised for trades.
| Locality | ≤10 sqm | 10–20 sqm | 21–400 sqm | >400 sqm |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A, B | ₹3,968 | ₹9,919 | ₹166/sqm | ₹83/sqm |
| C, D | ₹2,645 | ₹6,613 | ₹132/sqm | ₹66/sqm |
| E, F, G, H | ₹1,323 | ₹3,306 | ₹99/sqm | ₹50/sqm |
Note: The trade license in Kerala for special categories has a different fee structure.
Penalties for Non-Compliance of Trade License In Kerala
Learn about the penalties that the business who do not possess a trade license in Kerala, or disobey the set rules or continue to trade with an outdated trade license in Kerala may face:
- The business who possesses a trade license in Kerala may face some suitable legal action under some cases.
- A trade license in Kerala can be revoked or suspended, if the business is found to be breaking any of the rules by causing disturbances in the nearby area.
- If an entity violates the set guidelines of the trade license in Kerala, then the authorities will impose a penalty on the entities.
- The authorities may impose fines and penalties on any business that conducts commercial activities without a trade license in Kerala.
- Absence of trade license in Kerala from authorities will result in lack of customer trust and lead to low revenue and potentially closure permanently.
- The authorities will charge half of the licensing fee on a business that fails to renew their trade license in Kerala within appropriate time.
Conclusion
Businesses can commit transactional activities and engage in deals with other businesses with adherence to the legal framework once they have obtained a trade license in Kerala. Businesses are mandated to have a trade license in Kerala to ensure credibility and gain consumer trust. The Trade License in Kerala is an assurance that the businesses operate with adherence to the law prior to conducting any financial activities, including trading, buying, or selling of commodities and services. The trading license in Kerala is to be renewed after its validity of three-year is expired to avoid penalties and legal consequences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Trade License in Kerala?
A Trade License in Kerala permits businesses to legally engage in commercial activities such as the sale, purchase, or trade of goods and services. The trade license in Kerala ensures compliance with the legal framework set by the authorities.
Do I need a Trade License in Kerala?
A trade license in Kerala is mandatory to operate a business within a legal framework. It ensures that the business satisfies health and safety standards set by the authorities.
Can a Trade License in Kerala be revoked or suspended?
Yes, the Municipal Corporations of the state can revoke or suspend a trade license in Kerala if the business is found violating the set guidelines or causing disturbances in the immediate zone.
What penalties can businesses without a Trade License in Kerala face?
Businesses operating without a valid trade license in Kerala might face appropriate legal actions under certain circumstances, and face imposition of fines, penalties, or potentially permanent closure.
