Are you planning to start your own business? The first step towards realising your entrepreneurial dream is to register your company with the appropriate legal authorities. Company registration can be a complex process, but with the right guidance, you can navigate the procedure efficiently and quickly. Understanding your company structure, like whether it will be a corporation, will be essential to this process.
In this guide, we will cover all the essential aspects of company registration, including the company registration process, company incorporation procedure, and the benefits of business registration.
Types of company registration in India
In India, there are various types of company registrations available to suit different business structures and requirements. Here's an overview of the most common types:
- Private Limited Company Registration: There are many companies going for a private limited company registration type because a private limited company is the most popular form of business entity for startups and small to medium-sized enterprises. It offers limited liability protection to its shareholders, restricting their liability to the extent of their share capital. Private Limited Companies have a separate legal identity from their owners, allowing them to raise funds easily through equity shares while maintaining ownership control. If you are considering how to fund your business, understanding the concept of working capital is essential.
- Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) Registration: An LLP combines the benefits of a traditional partnership with the advantages of limited liability protection. A limited liability partnership registration offers partners protection from the actions of other partners, similar to shareholders in a company. It is ideal for small businesses where the owners want to limit their personal liability while retaining flexibility in management. If you are curious about the distinction between different business structures, exploring a limited liability partnership can be helpful.
- One Person Company (OPC): One person company registration is suitable for sole proprietors who wish to establish a corporate identity while enjoying limited liability protection. Unlike traditional sole proprietorships, OPCs have a separate legal existence, providing their owners with a safeguard against personal liability. It allows individuals to start and operate a business on their own, making it an attractive option for entrepreneurs. For those considering growth or potential acquisitions, understanding the process of acquisition may be beneficial.
- Public Limited Company Registration: A public limited company is suitable for businesses planning to raise capital from the public through the sale of shares on the stock exchange. It has more stringent regulatory requirements compared to Private Limited Companies, including mandatory public disclosure of financial information and compliance with corporate governance standards. Public Limited Companies offer greater access to capital markets but require substantial initial investment and compliance costs. The company's assets will play a key role in raising such capital.
Each type of company registration in India has its own set of legal requirements, benefits, and limitations. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for entrepreneurs to choose the most appropriate structure for their business goals and needs.
Requirements for company registration in India
- Unique company name: Ensure the proposed name is distinct from existing registered companies or trademarks.
- Minimum directors: One for OPC, two for private, and three for public companies.
- Minimum members: One for OPC, two for private, and seven for public companies.
- Citizenship requirement: At least one director must be an Indian citizen, though foreign nationals can also be directors.
- Director Identification Number (DIN): All directors must obtain a DIN.
- Digital Signature Certificate (DSC): Directors and shareholders need a DSC for signing documents.
- Registered office: A physical address in India is necessary, typically in the state of incorporation.
- Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA): Prepare these documents outlining the company's objectives and operational rules.
Company registration authorities in India
- Registrar of Companies (ROC): Office under the Indian Ministry of Corporate Affairs, administers various acts including Companies Act, 2013, Limited Liability Partnership Act, 2008, Company Secretaries Act, 1980, and Chartered Accountants Act, 1949.
- Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA): Oversees the administration of companies and LLPs in India.
- Central Registration Centre (CRC): Facilitates swift processing of incorporation, closure, and regulatory compliance filings.
- Centralised Processing for Accelerated Corporate Exit (C-PACE): Aims for expedited closure processes for companies.
- CPC (Central Processing Centre): Ensures speedy processing of applications and forms for incorporation, closure, alterations, and capital raising.
These authorities collectively streamline the regulatory procedures, promoting ease of doing business and facilitating the corporate ecosystem in India.
Documents Required for Company Registration in Delhi
- PAN card of directors and shareholders.
- ID Proof: Aadhaar card, Voter ID, Driving license, Passport (for foreign nationals).
- Address Proof: Bank statement, utility bills, resident card (for foreign nationals).
- Proof of Registered Office: Utility bills, rental agreement, property tax receipts, sale deed.
Understanding the company registration process
The process for company registration in India involves several steps:
- Begin by applying for the Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) as well as the Director Identification Number (DIN) for every director involved in the company.
- Fill out part A of the SPICe+ form and reserve the company name via the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) website.
- Proceed to fill out the company details in part B of the SPICe+ form.
- File the electronic versions of the Memorandum of Association (eMOA) and the Articles of Association (eAOA).
- Fill out the AGILE-PRO form for the opening of a bank account and the registration of EPFO, ESIC, GSTIN, and professional tax, if needed.
- Upload the required paperwork as per the MCA's checklist.
- Submit the completed SPICe+ form on the MCA website, attaching the DSC from the proposed director and a declaration from a licensed professional (Chartered Accountant, Company Secretary, Cost Accountant, or Advocate).
- Pay the company registration fees and the Registrar of Companies (ROC) stamp duty through the MCA website and generate challans accordingly.
- The application and documents will be processed by the Central Registration Centre (CRC) before being forwarded to the ROC for verification.
- The ROC, upon successful verification, will register the company and issue a Company Incorporation Certificate, a Company Permanent Account Number (PAN), and a Company Tax Collection and Deduction Number (TAN).
Adherence to these steps ensures a smooth, compliant company registration process.
Company registration fees in India
The cost of registering a Private Limited Company in India typically varies depending on several factors such as the number of directors, number of members, authorised share capital, and professional fees charged by consultants or agencies. While the actual cost may vary, it generally ranges from Rs. 6,000 to Rs. 30,000.
Time required for an online company registration in Delhi
In India, registering a Private Limited Company typically takes 10-18 working days, provided all the required documents are submitted, and there are no complications. However, the actual time may vary depending on various factors such as the workload of government authorities, completeness of documents, and accuracy of information provided.
Process |
Estimated Time |
Preparation of documents |
1 - 2 days |
Obtaining Digital Signature Certificates |
1 - 3 days |
Obtaining Director Identification Numbers |
1 - 2 days |
Filing application with Registrar of Companies |
1 - 2 days |
Verification and approval by ROC |
2 - 5 days |
Issuance of Certificate of Incorporation |
1 - 2 days |
Total |
7 - 14 days |
Please note that these are estimated times and can vary based on individual circumstances and government processing times.
Understanding the company registration process
The process of registering a company in India can be lengthy and complicated. The company registration process in India is governed by the Companies Act, 2013. There are specific legal procedures and formalities that businesses must complete before incorporating their companies. These include obtaining digital signature certificates, director identification numbers (DINs), and memorandum of association (MOA) and articles of association (AOA) documents.
The company registration procedure involves several steps, including name reservation, documentation of company incorporation, submission of a certificate of incorporation, and applying for a Permanent Account Number (PAN) and tax deduction and collection account number (TAN). With a qualified legal professional or a reliable business registration service provider, you can complete the process with ease.
Benefits of company registration
There are several advantages to registering your company. Let us look at some of them.
- Legal compliance: Company registration ensures that your business complies with all legal and regulatory norms. It makes it easy for you to file taxes, maintain records, and create trust among customers and investors.
- Access to government aid and subsidies: With company registration in place, your business can access government schemes and incentives such as MSME benefits, export incentives, and more.
- Easy expansion across states: With proper registration, businesses can easily expand their operations to other states, opening up new markets and customers.
- Protection of personal assets: Registering your company as a separate legal entity from yourself provides personal asset protection, shielding you from any liability in case of business losses or debts.
- Access to business loans: Banks and financial institutions require registered documents from your business to provide a business loan. With proper company registration, you can quickly secure loans for your business, accelerating growth and development.
Starting a business can be a daunting process, but with Bajaj Finserv Business Loan, you can achieve your entrepreneurial dreams with ease. Proper registration brings significant benefits such as legal compliance, access to government incentives, and access to business loans. If you are looking to start a business, ensure that you complete the registration process on time and with all the necessary documents to realise the benefits of being a legal business entity.
Apply for a Bajaj Finserv Business Loan today and finance your entrepreneurial dreams with ease. With Bajaj Finserv, you can get access to a business loan of up to Rs. 80 lakh, minimal documentation, faster disbursal, and flexible repayment options. Do not let financial constraints slow down your business growth - apply now and take the first step towards achieving your entrepreneurial dream.