Registering a company in India involves legal and procedural formalities under the Companies Act, 2013. The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) governs the registration process, and companies are incorporated through the online MCA21 portal.
Contents
Step 1: Choose the Right Business StructureStep 2: Obtain Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)Step 3: Apply for Director Identification Number (DIN)Step 4: Name Reservation via RUN (Reserve Unique Name)Step 5: File SPICe+ Form for Company IncorporationStep 6: Apply for PAN, TAN & GST RegistrationStep 7: Open a Business Bank AccountStep 8: Compliance & Post-Registration RequirementsImportant Links for Registration
Step 1: Choose the Right Business Structure
Before proceeding with registration, determine the type of company that best suits your business needs:
| Business Structure | Best For | Legal Liability | Taxation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Limited Company (Pvt. Ltd.) | Startups, businesses seeking investment | Limited liability | Corporate tax |
| Public Limited Company (Ltd.) | Large-scale businesses, IPOs | Limited liability | Corporate tax |
| One Person Company (OPC) | Single-owner businesses | Limited liability | Corporate tax |
| Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) | Professional services, small businesses | Limited liability | Pass-through taxation |
| Sole Proprietorship | Small businesses, freelancers | Unlimited liability | Individual tax |
| Partnership Firm | Small enterprises with co-owners | Unlimited liability | Individual tax |
Step 2: Obtain Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
- A DSC is required for all directors and shareholders to sign e-documents.
- Apply for DSC through certified agencies like eMudhra, NSDL, or Sify.
- Documents required: PAN card, Aadhaar card, and email verification.
Step 3: Apply for Director Identification Number (DIN)
- A DIN is a unique identification number for company directors.
- Apply through SPICe+ Form on the MCA portal.
- Required documents: Identity proof, address proof, and passport-sized photo.
Step 4: Name Reservation via RUN (Reserve Unique Name)
- Choose a unique company name following MCA naming guidelines.
- Apply through the RUN (Reserve Unique Name) service or via SPICe+ form.
- Names should not match existing registered companies or trademarks.
Step 5: File SPICe+ Form for Company Incorporation
- SPICe+ (Simplified Proforma for Incorporating a Company Electronically) is the primary incorporation form.
- Details required:
- Company name, directors’ details, business objectives
- Share capital structure, registered office address
- Articles of Association (AOA) & Memorandum of Association (MOA)
Step 6: Apply for PAN, TAN & GST Registration
- After incorporation, apply for PAN (Permanent Account Number) and TAN (Tax Deduction & Collection Account Number) via SPICe+ form.
- If applicable, register for GST (Goods & Services Tax) via GST portal.
Step 7: Open a Business Bank Account
- Use the Certificate of Incorporation, PAN, and other company documents to open a corporate bank account.
- Essential for conducting financial transactions legally.
Step 8: Compliance & Post-Registration Requirements
After registration, ensure compliance with these legal requirements:
- File annual returns with MCA.
- Maintain statutory records and books of accounts.
- Appoint an auditor within 30 days of incorporation.
- File Income Tax Returns and GST Returns (if applicable).
Important Links for Registration
This process ensures a legally compliant business setup in India. Let me know if you need further details! 🚀