How to Register a Private Limited Company in India: Process, Documents and Timeline

A Private Limited Company is the preferred structure for startups and growing businesses. It offers limited liability, a separate legal identity, easier fundraising and more credibility with banks, clients and investors. Here is everything you need to know before you incorporate.

Basic requirements

• Minimum 2 directors and 2 shareholders (the same people can be both)
• At least one director must be resident in India
• A registered office address in India
• Digital Signature Certificates (DSC) for directors and subscribers
• No minimum paid-up capital — you can start with any amount

If you are a solo founder, a One Person Company (OPC) may suit you, while professionals often prefer an LLP. We help you choose the right structure first.

Documents required

• PAN and Aadhaar of all directors and shareholders
• Identity and address proof (passport, voter ID or driving licence) and recent bank statement or utility bill
• Passport-size photographs
• Registered office proof — recent electricity or utility bill, plus rent agreement and NOC from the owner if the premises are rented
• Notarised and apostilled documents for foreign nationals or NRIs

Step-by-step registration through SPICe+

1. Get DSCs for the proposed directors and subscribers.
2. Reserve the company name through SPICe+ Part A on the MCA portal. Pick a unique name that does not clash with existing companies or trademarks.
3. File SPICe+ Part B with company details, directors (DIN is allotted through the form) and capital. The same filing also covers PAN, TAN, EPFO, ESIC, professional tax (where applicable) and a bank account application.
4. Prepare e-MoA (INC-33) and e-AoA (INC-34) — the company’s objects and internal rules.
5. Pay government fees and stamp duty, which depend on authorised capital and your state.
6. Receive the Certificate of Incorporation with your Corporate Identity Number (CIN), PAN and TAN.

With complete and correct documents, incorporation usually takes about 7–15 working days.

Compliances after incorporation

• File INC-20A (commencement of business) within 180 days, after shareholders deposit their subscription money
• Appoint the first statutory auditor within 30 days (ADT-1)
• Open a current account and deposit the share capital
• Get GST registration if your turnover or business type requires it
• Maintain statutory registers and hold board meetings
• Every year: file financial statements (AOC-4), the annual return (MGT-7/7A), the company ITR, and directors’ DIR-3 KYC

Related reads

• GST Registration: who needs it and how to apply
• GST Return Filing: GSTR-1, GSTR-3B, due dates and late fees
• ITR Filing Guide: forms, documents and deadlines

This article is general information, not legal or tax advice. Rules, limits and due dates change through notifications, so confirm the current position before you act, or simply ask us.