Direct Tax
Consulting
ESG Advisory
Indirect Tax
Growth Advisory
Internal Audit
BFSI Audit
Industry Audit
Valuation
RBI Services
SEBI Services
IRDA Registration
AML Advisory
IBC Services
Recovery of Shares
NBFC Compliance
IRDA Compliance
Finance & Accounts
Payroll Compliance Services
HR Outsourcing
LPO
Fractional CFO
General Legal
Corporate Law
Debt Recovery
Select Country
Are you struggling with the requirements for Credit Rating Agency Registration with SEBI? Enterslice eases the process with expert assistance to ensure speedy and hassle-free approval.
500000 +
500 +
50 +
REQUEST A CALL BACK
Rated at 4.8/5 21996+ Happy Reviews
Overview Roles Benefits Procedure Timeline Documentseligibility Faqs Schedule Meeting An Overview of Credit Rating Agency Registration Are you planning to start credit rating activities but are unsure about the challenges involved? If yes, Enterslice can guide you in securing Credit Rating Agency Registration with SEBI. A Credit Rating Agency is a body corporate that evaluates and rates securities, whether listed or proposed to be listed on a recognized stock exchange. It assesses the creditworthiness of individuals, companies, governments, or other borrowing entities. SEBI registration is essential for a Credit Rating Agency as it ensures proper evaluation of a debtor company’s ability and willingness to repay interest and principal on debt instruments. The rating process links risk and returns by analyzing financial history, current assets, and liabilities. If you’re concerned about preparing documents and obtaining a license smoothly, connect with Enterslice experts for worry-free online Credit Rating Agency Registration. Investor Confidence Public Issue Corporate Governance & Transparency Risk Management Minimum net worth- 25 Crore Company registered under the Companies Act Applicant must be fit and proper as per the Standards Get your Credit Rating Agency License with Enterslice Secure your Credit Rating Agency License with Enterslice to legally operate and issue authoritative credit ratings within India's regulated financial market. Get Started Now Roles of Credit Rating Agency License Holder The roles of a credit rating agency license holder are as mentioned below: Agreement with Clients A credit rating agency must enter into a written agreement with its clients before rating securities. This agreement should clearly state the fees charged, the client’s rating, and the rights and obligations of both parties. Review and Monitoring of Ratings Agencies are required to periodically review and monitor the ratings assigned to securities, unless the rating has been withdrawn under Regulation 16(3). Compliance with SEBI Guidelines Every credit rating agency must strictly comply with SEBI-issued guidelines, directives, and circulars from time to time. Benefits of Online Credit Rating Agency Registration for Investors Over the last two decades, credit rating agencies have become highly important for investors and the Indian financial market. If you want to operate as a credit rating agency, obtaining a license is essential. Below are the key benefits of online credit rating agency registration for investors in India: Investor Protection SEBI mandates that credit rating agencies must continuously monitor and review the securities they rate. This helps safeguard investors’ interests. Low-Cost Information Credit rating agencies provide affordable access to reliable information by collecting, analyzing, and interpreting complex financial data. Expert Insights With the help of trained and skilled professionals, credit rating agencies deliver superior information and assessments. It is one of the benefits of online credit rating agency registration. Risk and Return Analysis The ratings offered give investors a clear idea of the risks involved in financial instruments, helping them make informed decisions. Benchmark for Regulators Credit ratings act as benchmarks for financial regulators and policymakers in assessing systemic risks. Market Transparency By offering independent and objective opinions on borrowers’ financial health, credit rating agencies enhance market transparency. Procedure for Online Credit Rating Agency Registration To function as a credit rating agency in India, an applicant must obtain a certificate of registration from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). The process for online credit rating agency registration is explained below- Appointment of Promoter The first step is to appoint a promoter who meets SEBI’s eligibility requirements. A promoter can be a public financial institution, a scheduled commercial bank, a foreign bank operating in India, a foreign credit rating agency, or any company or body corporate with a minimum net worth of ₹100 crores. The promoter is responsible for filing the application for registration. Filing of Form A After appointing a promoter, the applicant must submit Form A, as prescribed under Schedule I of the SEBI (Credit Rating Agencies) Regulations, 1999. This form officially initiates the application process for obtaining credit rating agency registration. Consideration of Application by SEBI Once the application is filed, SEBI evaluates it to ensure compliance with the prescribed eligibility conditions. The application will be considered only if the applicant is promoted by a public financial institution, a scheduled commercial bank, a foreign bank with RBI approval, a foreign credit rating agency with at least five years of experience, or a company/body corporate with a net worth of at least ₹100 crores for the last five years. Clarification and Personal Representation If required, SEBI may ask the applicant to provide clarifications or additional details regarding the submitted application. Under Regulation 7, the applicant may also be called upon to personally appear before SEBI’s authorized representative to explain or clarify any aspects of the application. Grant of Certificate of Registration After reviewing the application and being satisfied with the eligibility, SEBI issues the Certificate of Registration in Form B. Along with the certificate, SEBI also sends an intimation to the applicant and acknowledges the payment of the prescribed fees, thereby granting official recognition to operate as a credit rating agency. Timeline for Credit Rating Agency SEBI Registration The time required for obtaining SEBI registration for a Credit Rating Agency (CRA) in India is generally around 90 to 180 days. However, this period may be extended in case of regulatory delays. The stepwise process for the credit rating agency SEBI registration is as follows: Application Preparation: 2 to 4 Weeks The applicant company prepares the required documents, appoints promoters, and ensures compliance with the eligibility criteria prescribed under the SEBI (CRA) Regulations, 1999. Filing of Application to SEBI: 1 to 2 Weeks The completed application, along with the prescribed fees and documents, is submitted to SEBI for review. Scrutiny of Application by SEBI: 30 to 60 Days SEBI examines the application, verifies the documents, and may request clarifications or additional information from the applicant. Grant of In-Principle Approval: 30 Days After due scrutiny, SEBI may issue an in-principle approval if the applicant meets the eligibility and compliance requirements. Final Registration Certificate: 30 to 60 Days Upon fulfilment of conditions specified in the in-principle approval, SEBI issues the final certificate of registration to the Credit Rating Agency. Documents for Online Credit Rating Agency Registration To apply for a Credit Rating Agency registration with SEBI, the applicant must submit specific documents as prescribed under the SEBI (Credit Rating Agencies) Regulations, 1999. The following documents and details are mandatory for Online Credit Rating Agency Registration: Certificate of Incorporation of the applicant company Address proof of all branch offices Details of Directors and Key Personnel (including qualifications and experience) Infrastructure details held by the applicant company Memorandum of Association (MoA) Articles of Association (AoA) Proof of experience in carrying out credit rating activities Financial information of the applicant company Declaration signed by at least two directors Regulation of Credit Rating Agency License The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Credit Rating Agency) Regulations, 1999, provide the legal framework for the registration and regulation of credit rating agencies in India. The regulation of credit rating agency license lay down the obligations of agencies, requirements for disclosure of ratings, and accountability measures, such as conducting internal audits. In 2010, SEBI issued a circular to clearly define the role of credit rating agencies in the Indian market. The CRA Regulations further elaborate on the process of credit rating agency registration with SEBI, ensuring transparency and standardization in the industry. Our experts at Enterslice are well-versed in the regulation of credit rating agency licenses and can provide complete assistance in compliance and registration. Eligibility Criteria for Credit Rating Agency SEBI Registration The eligibility criteria for obtaining a credit rating agency SEBI registration in India must meet the following conditions: The company must be incorporated under the Companies Act, 2013. It should have a minimum net worth of Rs. 25 crores. Adequate infrastructure and resources must be available to carry out credit rating activities. The company should be professionally and financially sound. It must not be involved in any securities market-related legal proceedings. It should not have been convicted of any offence involving moral turpitude. The applicant must be considered a “fit and proper person” as per SEBI guidelines. Any other requirements prescribed by SEBI regulations must also be fulfilled. List of Credit Rating Agencies Registered with SEBI Currently, there are seven credit rating agencies registered with SEBI. These agencies are authorized to evaluate and issue credit ratings in India: CRISIL Limited (Credit Rating Information Services of India Limited) India Ratings and Research Private Limited ICRA Limited (Investment Information and Credit Rating Agency) CARE Ratings Limited (Credit Analysis and Research Limited) Brickwork Ratings India Private Limited SMERA Ratings Limited (SME Rating Agency of India) Infomerics Valuation and Rating Private Limited Post-Credit Rating Agency Registration Every credit rating agency registered with SEBI must comply with certain obligations as laid down under the SEBI (Credit Rating Agency) Regulations, 1999. The key post Credit Rating Agency Registration is as follows: Framing Procedures and Systems for Trading: Credit rating agencies must establish proper procedures and systems to effectively carry out and monitor the trading of securities. Furnishing Information to SEBI: They are required to submit necessary information, such as the balance sheet, profit and loss account, and other financial data, to SEBI within the prescribed timelines. Maintaining Books of Accounts: Credit rating agencies must maintain copies of books of accounts, including the balance sheet, profit and loss account, auditor’s report, and agreements with clients, for at least five years. Appointment of Compliance Officer: Every agency must appoint a Compliance Officer who is authorized to monitor adherence to regulations and immediately report any non-compliance to SEBI. Validity and Renewal of Registration: The certificate of registration remains valid until it is suspended or cancelled by SEBI. Generally, the certificate is granted for five years. Renewal must be applied for at least three months before the expiry date of the certificate. Updates on Credit Rating Agencies Registered with SEBI The SEBI (Credit Rating Agencies) (Amendment) Regulations, 2018, along with the Master Circular for Credit Rating Agencies, 2024, introduced several key changes for credit rating agencies registered with SEBI: Enhanced Net Worth Requirement: Every credit rating agency must increase its net worth to the specified limit within 3 years. Promoter Shareholding: The promoter must hold at least 26% shareholding for a minimum of 3 years from the date of registration. Online Registration: SEBI now allows online registration for securities market intermediaries, including credit rating agencies. Change in Control: Prior approval from SEBI is required for any change in control of a credit rating agency. Surrender of Registration: A credit rating agency can apply for surrender of its registration certificate, subject to SEBI’s approval. Why Trust Enterslice for a Credit Rating Agency License? At Enterslice, we are blessed with a strong network of 10,000+ professionals, including business consultants, company secretaries, chartered accountants, regulatory experts, and lawyers. Given below are the reasons why we are the most trusted consulting partner for getting assistance in securing a credit rating agency license- Consistently High Approval Rate for Credit Rating Agency Registration Applications More than a Decade of Experience with SEBI Credit Rating Agency Registration Regulations High Precision and 100% Accuracy in Application Filing for Credit Rating Agency SEBI registration Expertise in Preparing Risk Assessment Models for Credit Rating Agencies 24/7 Expert Helpline to Resolve Your Queries in No Time In-depth Guidance on Regulation of Credit Rating Agency License Ensure Reduction in Compliance Burden by 30% Assist you in understanding the Structure of the Credit Rating Agency License Post-registration Support FAQs on Credit Rating Agency Registration What Does Credit Rating Mean? Credit rating is the evaluation of the risk involved in granting financial instruments to an individual or a company. It reflects the overall creditworthiness of the borrower and is commonly used to assess debt securities, short-term debt instruments, structured debt obligations, loans, and fixed deposits. In simple terms, a credit rating shows how likely a borrower is to repay the borrowed amount on time, as per the agreed terms and conditions. How Do Credit Rating Agencies Work? Credit rating agencies assess and assign credit risk ratings to entities such as companies, governments, securities, and loans. They do not decide on credit facilities but provide reports to help lenders make informed decisions. What is the Revenue Stream for Credit Rating Agencies? The credit rating agencies use the issuer pay model for revenue generation. The two main revenue streams of credit rating agencies are the service and subscriber fees charged by the issuers for rating their debt. What is the Market Size of Credit Rating Agencies? The market size for credit rating agencies was an estimated $17.73 billion globally in 2024, with a forecast to reach $24.81 billion by 2030. What is the Full Form of CRA? CRA stands for Credit Rating Agency. It is registered under the SEBI (Credit Rating Agency) Regulations of 1999. What is a Credit Rating Agency? A credit rating agency is a body corporate involved in the rating of securities, whether listed or proposed to be listed under a recognized stock exchange. What are the Requirements for Credit Rating Agency Registration? An applicant must be a body corporate registered under the Companies Act of 2013, be fit and proper, have a minimum net worth of Rs. 25 crores, and have adequate infrastructure facilities, which are the basic requirements for credit rating agency registration. What is the Validity Period for a Credit Rating Agency? The credit rating agency certificate of registration is valid for 5 years. Who Regulates Credit Rating Agencies in India? The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) is the authority responsible for regulating credit rating agencies. It oversees the regulation of credit rating agency licenses. What are the Documents Required for Credit Rating Agency SEBI Registration? Memorandum of Association, Articles of Association, Address proof of the branch offices, Certificate of Incorporation, and Declaration signed by at least 2 directors are some of the documents required for credit rating agency SEBI registration. Why is SEBI Registration Mandatory for Credit Rating Agencies? Credit rating agency registration with SEBI is mandatory as it brings transparency, accountability, and fair competition in the industry. Can We Operate as a Credit Rating Agency Without SEBI Registration? No, we cannot operate a credit rating agency without acquiring a certificate of registration from SEBI. Which are the Popular Credit Rating Agencies Registered with SEBI? India Ratings and Research Private Limited CRISIL Limited (Credit Rating Information Services of India Limited) ICRA Limited (Investment Information and Credit Rating Agency) Brickwork Ratings India Private Limited CRAE (Credit Analysis and Research Limited) Infomerics Valuation and Rating Private Limited SMERA Ratings Limited
Are you planning to start credit rating activities but are unsure about the challenges involved? If yes, Enterslice can guide you in securing Credit Rating Agency Registration with SEBI. A Credit Rating Agency is a body corporate that evaluates and rates securities, whether listed or proposed to be listed on a recognized stock exchange. It assesses the creditworthiness of individuals, companies, governments, or other borrowing entities.
SEBI registration is essential for a Credit Rating Agency as it ensures proper evaluation of a debtor company’s ability and willingness to repay interest and principal on debt instruments. The rating process links risk and returns by analyzing financial history, current assets, and liabilities. If you’re concerned about preparing documents and obtaining a license smoothly, connect with Enterslice experts for worry-free online Credit Rating Agency Registration.
Investor Confidence
Public Issue
Corporate Governance & Transparency
Risk Management
Minimum net worth- 25 Crore
Company registered under the Companies Act
Applicant must be fit and proper as per the Standards
Secure your Credit Rating Agency License with Enterslice to legally operate and issue authoritative credit ratings within India's regulated financial market.
The roles of a credit rating agency license holder are as mentioned below:
A credit rating agency must enter into a written agreement with its clients before rating securities. This agreement should clearly state the fees charged, the client’s rating, and the rights and obligations of both parties.
Agencies are required to periodically review and monitor the ratings assigned to securities, unless the rating has been withdrawn under Regulation 16(3).
Every credit rating agency must strictly comply with SEBI-issued guidelines, directives, and circulars from time to time.
Over the last two decades, credit rating agencies have become highly important for investors and the Indian financial market. If you want to operate as a credit rating agency, obtaining a license is essential. Below are the key benefits of online credit rating agency registration for investors in India:
SEBI mandates that credit rating agencies must continuously monitor and review the securities they rate. This helps safeguard investors’ interests.
Credit rating agencies provide affordable access to reliable information by collecting, analyzing, and interpreting complex financial data.
With the help of trained and skilled professionals, credit rating agencies deliver superior information and assessments. It is one of the benefits of online credit rating agency registration.
The ratings offered give investors a clear idea of the risks involved in financial instruments, helping them make informed decisions.
Credit ratings act as benchmarks for financial regulators and policymakers in assessing systemic risks.
By offering independent and objective opinions on borrowers’ financial health, credit rating agencies enhance market transparency.
To function as a credit rating agency in India, an applicant must obtain a certificate of registration from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). The process for online credit rating agency registration is explained below-
The first step is to appoint a promoter who meets SEBI’s eligibility requirements. A promoter can be a public financial institution, a scheduled commercial bank, a foreign bank operating in India, a foreign credit rating agency, or any company or body corporate with a minimum net worth of ₹100 crores. The promoter is responsible for filing the application for registration.
After appointing a promoter, the applicant must submit Form A, as prescribed under Schedule I of the SEBI (Credit Rating Agencies) Regulations, 1999. This form officially initiates the application process for obtaining credit rating agency registration.
Once the application is filed, SEBI evaluates it to ensure compliance with the prescribed eligibility conditions. The application will be considered only if the applicant is promoted by a public financial institution, a scheduled commercial bank, a foreign bank with RBI approval, a foreign credit rating agency with at least five years of experience, or a company/body corporate with a net worth of at least ₹100 crores for the last five years.
If required, SEBI may ask the applicant to provide clarifications or additional details regarding the submitted application. Under Regulation 7, the applicant may also be called upon to personally appear before SEBI’s authorized representative to explain or clarify any aspects of the application.
After reviewing the application and being satisfied with the eligibility, SEBI issues the Certificate of Registration in Form B. Along with the certificate, SEBI also sends an intimation to the applicant and acknowledges the payment of the prescribed fees, thereby granting official recognition to operate as a credit rating agency.
The time required for obtaining SEBI registration for a Credit Rating Agency (CRA) in India is generally around 90 to 180 days. However, this period may be extended in case of regulatory delays. The stepwise process for the credit rating agency SEBI registration is as follows:
The applicant company prepares the required documents, appoints promoters, and ensures compliance with the eligibility criteria prescribed under the SEBI (CRA) Regulations, 1999.
The completed application, along with the prescribed fees and documents, is submitted to SEBI for review.
SEBI examines the application, verifies the documents, and may request clarifications or additional information from the applicant.
After due scrutiny, SEBI may issue an in-principle approval if the applicant meets the eligibility and compliance requirements.
Upon fulfilment of conditions specified in the in-principle approval, SEBI issues the final certificate of registration to the Credit Rating Agency.
To apply for a Credit Rating Agency registration with SEBI, the applicant must submit specific documents as prescribed under the SEBI (Credit Rating Agencies) Regulations, 1999. The following documents and details are mandatory for Online Credit Rating Agency Registration:
Certificate of Incorporation of the applicant company
Address proof of all branch offices
Details of Directors and Key Personnel (including qualifications and experience)
Infrastructure details held by the applicant company
Memorandum of Association (MoA)
Articles of Association (AoA)
Proof of experience in carrying out credit rating activities
Financial information of the applicant company
Declaration signed by at least two directors
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Credit Rating Agency) Regulations, 1999, provide the legal framework for the registration and regulation of credit rating agencies in India. The regulation of credit rating agency license lay down the obligations of agencies, requirements for disclosure of ratings, and accountability measures, such as conducting internal audits.
In 2010, SEBI issued a circular to clearly define the role of credit rating agencies in the Indian market. The CRA Regulations further elaborate on the process of credit rating agency registration with SEBI, ensuring transparency and standardization in the industry.
Our experts at Enterslice are well-versed in the regulation of credit rating agency licenses and can provide complete assistance in compliance and registration.
The eligibility criteria for obtaining a credit rating agency SEBI registration in India must meet the following conditions:
Currently, there are seven credit rating agencies registered with SEBI. These agencies are authorized to evaluate and issue credit ratings in India:
Every credit rating agency registered with SEBI must comply with certain obligations as laid down under the SEBI (Credit Rating Agency) Regulations, 1999. The key post Credit Rating Agency Registration is as follows:
The SEBI (Credit Rating Agencies) (Amendment) Regulations, 2018, along with the Master Circular for Credit Rating Agencies, 2024, introduced several key changes for credit rating agencies registered with SEBI:
At Enterslice, we are blessed with a strong network of 10,000+ professionals, including business consultants, company secretaries, chartered accountants, regulatory experts, and lawyers. Given below are the reasons why we are the most trusted consulting partner for getting assistance in securing a credit rating agency license-
Credit rating is the evaluation of the risk involved in granting financial instruments to an individual or a company. It reflects the overall creditworthiness of the borrower and is commonly used to assess debt securities, short-term debt instruments, structured debt obligations, loans, and fixed deposits. In simple terms, a credit rating shows how likely a borrower is to repay the borrowed amount on time, as per the agreed terms and conditions.
Credit rating agencies assess and assign credit risk ratings to entities such as companies, governments, securities, and loans. They do not decide on credit facilities but provide reports to help lenders make informed decisions.
The credit rating agencies use the issuer pay model for revenue generation. The two main revenue streams of credit rating agencies are the service and subscriber fees charged by the issuers for rating their debt.
The market size for credit rating agencies was an estimated $17.73 billion globally in 2024, with a forecast to reach $24.81 billion by 2030.
CRA stands for Credit Rating Agency. It is registered under the SEBI (Credit Rating Agency) Regulations of 1999.
A credit rating agency is a body corporate involved in the rating of securities, whether listed or proposed to be listed under a recognized stock exchange.
An applicant must be a body corporate registered under the Companies Act of 2013, be fit and proper, have a minimum net worth of Rs. 25 crores, and have adequate infrastructure facilities, which are the basic requirements for credit rating agency registration.
The credit rating agency certificate of registration is valid for 5 years.
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) is the authority responsible for regulating credit rating agencies. It oversees the regulation of credit rating agency licenses.
Memorandum of Association, Articles of Association, Address proof of the branch offices, Certificate of Incorporation, and Declaration signed by at least 2 directors are some of the documents required for credit rating agency SEBI registration.
Credit rating agency registration with SEBI is mandatory as it brings transparency, accountability, and fair competition in the industry.
No, we cannot operate a credit rating agency without acquiring a certificate of registration from SEBI.
Red Herring Top 100 Asia enlists outstanding entrepreneurs and promising companies. It selects the award winners from approximately 2000 privately financed companies each year in the Asia. Since 1996, Red Herring has kept tabs on these up-and-comers. Red Herring editors were among the first to recognize that companies such as Google, Facebook, Kakao, Alibaba, Twitter, Rakuten, Salesforce.com, Xiaomi and YouTube would change the way we live and work.
Researchers have found out that organization using new technologies in their accounting and tax have better productivity as compared to those using the traditional methods. Complying with the recent technological trends in the accounting industry, Enterslice was formed to focus on the emerging start up companies and bring innovation in their traditional Chartered Accountants & Legal profession services, disrupt traditional Chartered Accountants practice mechanism & Lawyers.
-- Testimonials
“Enterslice and Its team made starting my company and running very easy. Their contribution in raising funds was immense. I highly recommend Enterslice to any one who wants to start a business in India. Thank you guys keep up the good work.”
CEO - Solarix
“Very professional services. I am highly impressed by their courteous and client oriented attitude.”
F Salon Paris
“Thanks for your services. The team is really professional. They make sure that things are delivered in time. The best part about Enterslice is the consultative approach and guiding us on all our business matters.”
Haiden Group - UAE
“I would like to thank the Enterslice team for the excellent business plan made by them. They understood our requirement and gave us exactly what we wanted. Thank you Team Enterslice.”
“I have registered my Trademark through them. The application was filed within 3 days. And the charges were also very reasonable. We got TM Approved in 6 month’s time without any re-submission or objection. They charge high to deliver the best in industry.”
“They provided customized and Highly skilled CA &services. The management invests themselves in your work. They ensured timely NBFC registration and are always ready and prepared with excellent advisory services. The best part of working with Enterslice is they are not having expertise of law but they are well versed with Digital marketing skills &fintech business model.”
“Great set of people working together. Very customer friendly. I am very satisfied with the food license registration services and will definitely come back for other similar requirements.”
“I came to know about Enterslice through a friend. Since then I have done GST Registration through them. The services are consumer centric and fast. I have recommended them to many of my acquaintance already.”
“I chose Enterslice to start my new Indian adventure as entrepreneur, and respect my past experience i was surprised by their professionalism. In particular, Raksha T. followed my startup process, and i was delighted with her support on every moment. Great, great experience.”
“Amazing services provided by your organization. They have completed our NBFC registration order within stipulated time period of 90 days. They provide constant guidance and support in the process. Their support in building fintech software is amazing.”
Stay updated with all the latest legal updates. Just enter your email address and subscribe for free!
(+91) 9870310368 
(+1) 6292766228