What is Company Registration in India?
Company registration is the legal process of incorporating a business under the Companies Act, 2013. It gives your business a separate legal identity, distinct from its owners.
Registered companies enjoy benefits like limited liability protection, easier access to funding, perpetual succession, and improved credibility with customers and vendors.
Types of Company Registration
Choosing the right structure is crucial. Here are the most common types:
- Private Limited Company (Pvt Ltd): The most popular choice for startups and growing businesses. Offers limited liability and restricts share transfer. Minimum 2 directors/shareholders.
- Limited Liability Partnership (LLP): Combines the flexibility of a partnership with limited liability. Ideal for professional firms and small businesses.
- One Person Company (OPC): For solo entrepreneurs who want limited liability. Only one member is required.
- Public Limited Company: For large businesses planning to raise capital from the public. Minimum 3 directors and 7 shareholders.
- Section 8 Company: For non-profit organizations promoting art, science, charity, etc.
Eligibility Criteria
- Resident Director: At least one director must be an Indian resident (stayed in India for ≥182 days in the previous financial year).
- Age: Directors must be at least 18 years old.
- Unique Name: The company name must not resemble existing companies or trademarks.
- Registered Office: Must have a physical address in India (residential or commercial).
Registration Process (Step-by-Step)
- Digital Signature Certificate (DSC): Obtain DSC for all directors to sign forms digitally.
- Director Identification Number (DIN): Apply for DIN for all directors (usually done with the incorporation form).
- Name Reservation: Check availability and reserve your unique name via the RUN service or SPICe+ form.
- File SPICe+ Form: Submit the integrated form (INC-32) for incorporation, PAN, TAN, and other registrations.
- Draft MoA & AoA: Prepare the Memorandum and Articles of Association.
- Certificate of Incorporation: Upon approval, the RoC issues the COI, PAN, and TAN.
Documents Required
For Directors/Shareholders:
- PAN Card (Mandatory for Indians)
- Aadhaar Card / Voter ID / Passport / Driving License
- Passport (Mandatory for Foreign Nationals)
- Latest Bank Statement / Electricity Bill / Mobile Bill (not older than 2 months)
- Passport-sized Photograph
For Registered Office:
- Electricity Bill / Gas Bill / Water Bill (not older than 2 months)
- Notarized Rent Agreement (if rented)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the property owner
Company Registration Fees
The cost varies based on the company type, authorized capital, and state. It typically includes:
- Government Fees: Filing fees for SPICe+, MoA, AoA, and Stamp Duty (varies by state).
- Professional Fees: Charges for CA/CS services, drafting documents, and application processing.
- DSC Fees: Cost for obtaining Digital Signatures.
Contact Easyfilings for a customized quote based on your specific needs.
