Kerala Launches K-SWIFT Portal for MSME Professional Tax Registration

Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC) has launched a single-window online platform for the registration and processing of Professional Tax for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the state. This initiative is being implemented through Kerala Single Window Interface for Fast and Transparent Clearances (K-SWIFT), enabling speedy processing of such registrations.
Entrepreneurs can now submit their applications online for Professional Tax registration and obtain approvals within a stipulated time through this web portal. Professional Tax, which is collected by local self-government institutions from employees, professionals, and business owners, is legally applicable to MSMEs as well.
K-SWIFT is part of the government’s flagship initiatives aimed at improving the Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) in Kerala. MSMEs can register and apply through this portal for the necessary licenses and certificates, thus avoiding delays in procedures and reducing the need to appear in person before authorities, allowing entrepreneurs to focus on their businesses.
K-SWIFT functions as a comprehensive online single- window clearance system for those looking to start or operate businesses in the state. It offers various services to businesses, especially MSMEs, including professional tax registration and facilitation of government approvals.
According to Minister for Industries P Rajeeve, there has been a significant increase in MSME registrations in Kerala since the launch of the ‘Year of Enterprises’ initiative in 2023. As part of this initiative, around 3.5 lakh new enterprises have been established in the state.
Of the new entrepreneurs, 31% are women and 4% belong to the SC/ST communities. More than 50% of the new entrepreneurs are from the OBC category. The transgender community has also benefited from this scheme. The Minister noted that the availability of professional tax payment through the K-SWIFT portal would ease the financial burden on entrepreneurs.
Through the K-SWIFT platform, entrepreneurs can apply for clearances from various government departments, streamlining the process of establishing and running a business in Kerala.