Company registration in India: a step-by-step guide

1. Choose the right structure

Most founders choose between a Private Limited Company, an LLP, an OPC, a partnership or a proprietorship. The main differences are liability, compliance, ownership flexibility and how easy it is to raise funding. Our Private Limited Company page includes a comparison table.

2. Prepare your documents

You will need PAN, identity and address proof and a photograph for each director and shareholder, plus proof of the registered office address and, if rented, the owner's NOC. Directors also need a Digital Signature Certificate.

3. The online filing

1. Name approval. Propose names that are unique and not too close to existing companies or trademarks.
2. Incorporation form. File the SPICe+ form with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, with the memorandum and articles of association.
3. PAN and TAN. These are allotted through the same process.
4. Certificate of Incorporation. You receive it with your company's CIN.

4. What to do right after incorporation

• Open a current account in the company's name and deposit the subscribed capital.
• File the declaration of commencement of business within the prescribed time, generally 180 days.
• Appoint the first auditor, generally within 30 days of incorporation.
• Hold the first board meeting, generally within 30 days.
• Register for GST and Udyam if they apply.

5. Plan your ongoing compliance

Every company must file annual returns, financial statements and director KYC, whether or not it has revenue. Build an annual compliance calendar from day one.