Blog · Business Registration
How to Register a Private Limited Company Online in India: Steps, Documents and Timeline
Private limited company registration online in India is done through the MCA SPICe+ form. You need two directors, two shareholders, one Indian-resident director, a registered office address, digital signatures and ID proofs. With clean documents, the Certificate of Incorporation with PAN and TAN usually arrives in about 7 to 15 working days.
What you need before you start
Most delays happen because something is missing on day one. Keep these five things ready and the filing moves quickly.
2 directors, 2 shareholders
The same person can be both. At least one director must be an Indian resident, meaning 182 days or more in India in the previous year.
Registered office
Any address in India where the company can receive notices. You need a utility bill and a rent agreement or NOC from the owner.
Director documents
PAN, Aadhaar or passport, a photo, and an address proof such as a bank statement. Foreign directors need a notarised passport.
Digital signatures (DSC)
Every director who signs the incorporation form needs a Class 3 DSC. We arrange it online.
Takes about 1 day2 or 3 name options
Choose names that are unique and not too close to an existing company or trademark. The first choice is not always approved.
Step by step: how online registration works
- Get digital signaturesDirectors obtain a Class 3 DSC with their PAN and identity proof. This is done by video verification.
- Choose and reserve the nameThe name is proposed in SPICe+ Part A. MCA checks it against existing companies and trademarks.
- File SPICe+ with the e-MoA and e-AoASPICe+ Part B applies for the DIN, PAN, TAN, GST (optional), EPFO and ESIC in one integrated form. The Memorandum and Articles are attached as e-forms.
- Pay stamp duty and feesThe cost depends on your state and the authorised capital. We give you the exact amount before filing.
- Receive the Certificate of IncorporationOnce the Registrar approves, the certificate carries your CIN. PAN and TAN reach you by email.
- Do the post-incorporation tasksOpen the current account, deposit the share capital and appoint the first auditor within 30 days using Form ADT-1.
How long does it take?
Timelines are indicative. Name rejection, mismatched documents or a query from the Registrar add days. Clean documents and a correct name choice are the fastest route.
Private limited company or LLP: which suits you?
Choose a private limited company if you
- Plan to raise money from investors or angels
- Want to give shares or ESOPs to a team
- Need the strongest credibility with banks and large customers
- Expect to grow beyond a small partnership
Consider an LLP if you
- Run a professional or service practice
- Want lighter yearly compliance
- Do not plan to issue equity
- Have partners who want flexible profit sharing
Not sure which fits? See our private limited company setup and LLP setup pages, or one person company if you are a solo founder.
Compliance after incorporation
INC-20A
Declaration of commencement of business, filed within 180 days of incorporation.
Books and audit
A statutory audit and proper books are needed every year, even with no turnover.
AOC-4 and MGT-7
Annual financial statements and annual return filed with the Registrar each year.
Director KYC
Every DIN holder completes KYC each year to keep the DIN active.
Missing annual filings attracts a late fee per day and can lead to disqualification of directors. Our annual MCA compliance service keeps you on time.
Frequently asked questions
How much does private limited company registration cost in India?
It depends on your state’s stamp duty, the authorised capital, digital signatures and professional fees. Ask for a written quote that lists every part, so there are no surprises after you start.
Is there a minimum capital to register a private limited company?
No. The law sets no minimum paid-up capital. Most founders start with an amount that covers their first expenses and raise it later as the business grows.
Can a foreigner or NRI register a private limited company in India?
Yes. Foreign nationals and NRIs can be directors and shareholders, subject to FEMA rules, but at least one director must be an Indian resident. See our foreign company setup service.
Can I use my home as the registered office?
Yes. You need a recent utility bill and a no-objection certificate from the owner, plus a rent agreement if the home is rented.
Do I need GST registration when I incorporate?
No. You can apply for GST in the same SPICe+ form, but it is mandatory only when your turnover or business type requires it.
How long does private limited company registration take?
Usually about 7 to 15 working days with clean documents. Name rejection or a Registrar query adds time.
Want your private limited company registered without the back-and-forth? BizSetups Consulting Private Limited, Gurgaon, a Zoho Authorized Partner, handles every form for you.
+91 92788 13303Need help with this for your business?
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