If you’re looking to start a business in India, registering a Private Limited Company (Pvt Ltd) is a highly preferred option. It provides enhanced credibility, limited liability protection, easier access to funding, and strong potential for long-term growth.
The good news? The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has made the entire process online, so you can incorporate your company from anywhere in India.
In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you step-by-step through the process of registering a private limited company online in India, including eligibility, documents required, costs, and tips to avoid common mistakes.
Before we dive into the process, here’s why thousands of Indian entrepreneurs choose this structure:
1. Limited liability — personal assets are protected from business debts.
2. Legal recognition — enhances credibility with both customers and investors.
3. Easier to raise funds — venture capitalists and banks prefer Pvt Ltds.
4. Perpetual existence — the company continues even if shareholders change.
5. Tax benefits and compliance advantages for startups.
1. Minimum 2 shareholders (can go up to 200).
2. A minimum of two directors is required, with at least one being a resident of India.
3. Unique company name (not identical or similar to an existing entity or trademark).
4. Registered office address in India.
5. All directors and shareholders must have valid identity and address proofs.
Below is a list of documents you’ll need to prepare:
For Directors and Shareholders:
1. PAN Card (mandatory for Indian nationals)
2. Passport (mandatory for foreign nationals)
3. Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, or Driving License (as identity proof)
4. Recent utility bill or bank statement (serving as address proof, dated within the last 2–3 months)
5. Passport-size photograph
For Registered Office:
1. Rent agreement (if rented) or ownership deed
2. No-objection certificate (NOC) from the owner
3. Recent utility bill (electricity, water, gas, etc.)
Here is the most updated and simplified step-by-step procedure:
Step 1: Get Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
Since the registration process is completely digital, all directors and shareholders must have a DSC.
You can apply through authorized certifying authorities like eMudhra, Sify, etc.
Step 2: Obtain a Director Identification Number (DIN)
Directors need a unique DIN, which you can apply for while filling out the SPICe+ form (explained below).
Step 3: Name Reservation
You must reserve a unique name for your company.
This can be done either by using the RUN (Reserve Unique Name) service on the MCA portal
or
by applying directly through Part A of the SPICe+ form.
(Make sure to check name availability beforehand.)
Step 4: Fill SPICe+ Form (INC-32)
SPICe+ (Simplified Proforma for Incorporating Company Electronically) is a unified online form used for company incorporation.
It has two parts:
1. Part A: Name reservation
2. Part B: Incorporation, DIN allotment, PAN, TAN, EPFO, ESIC, GST (optional), and opening a bank account.
Fill out the details, upload the documents, and submit the form online.
Step 5: File the MOA and AOA
Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA) define the objectives and rules of your company.
You can draft and upload them electronically along with the SPICe+ form.
Step 6: Pay Fees and Stamp Duty
Pay the government fees and stamp duty online (fees depend on authorized capital and the state of registration).
Step 7: Get the Incorporation Certificate
After the ROC (Registrar of Companies) verifies and approves your application, you will receive:
1. Certificate of Incorporation (COI)
2. PAN and TAN of the company
3. CIN (Corporate Identification Number)
Your company is now officially registered and ready to operate.
The cost depends on:
1. Government fees (varies by authorized capital and state)
2. Professional fees (if you hire a consultant)
On average, it ranges between ₹7,000 to ₹20,000, including DSC, name reservation, and professional help.
Typically, it takes 7–15 working days to complete the entire process — assuming all documents are in order and no objections are raised.
1. Choose a unique and meaningful name.
2. Ensure all documents are valid and updated.
3. Hire a professional for guidance if you’re unsure.
4. Plan your authorized capital wisely.
5. Register for GST if you expect turnover above ₹40 lakh (or ₹20 lakh for services).
Q1. Can a foreign national or NRI be a director or shareholder?
Yes. A foreign national can be a director or shareholder, but at least one director must be an Indian resident.
Q2. Is it mandatory to have a commercial office address?
No. You can even register your home address as the company’s registered office, provided you have a NOC from the owner.
Q3. Do I need to visit the MCA or ROC office in person?
No. The entire process is completely online.
Q4. Can I register a Pvt Ltd company without a professional?
Yes, you can do it yourself if you understand the process well. However, hiring an expert helps ensure accuracy and compliance.
Registering a Private Limited Company online in India is simpler and faster than ever before — thanks to the MCA’s digital initiatives. It not only gives your business a legal identity but also opens doors to funding, credibility, and growth.
If you want to save time and avoid hassles, consider hiring experts to handle the paperwork and filings for you.
Ready to start your entrepreneurial journey?
Get in touch with India Company Setup — and let our experts help you incorporate your business the right way.
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