How to registered a private limited company.

It offers limited liability to shareholders, a separate legal identity, and easier access to funding compared to sole proprietorships or partnerships. Registration is entirely online and regulated by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).

Step-by-Step Process

• Obtain Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
  Mandatory for all proposed directors and shareholders.
  Used to sign e-forms electronically.
• Apply for Director Identification Number (DIN)
  Each director needs a DIN.
  Can be applied while filing the incorporation form (SPICe+).
• Name Reservation
  Apply through SPICe+ Part A on the MCA portal.
  Choose a unique name ending with "Private Limited".
  Up to two names can be proposed.
• Draft Incorporation Documents
  • Memorandum of Association (MoA).
  • Articles of Association (AoA).
  • Declaration by directors and subscribers.
• File SPICe+ (INC-32) Form
  Fill in details of the company, directors, and shareholding.
  Attach documents like PAN, Aadhaar, address proof, utility bills, NOC from the premises owner, MoA, and AoA.
  Upload on the MCA portal with DSC.
• PAN, TAN, and Other Registrations
  Allotted automatically with incorporation.
  A bank account can be opened using a Certificate of Incorporation.
• Receive Certificate of Incorporation
  Issued by the Registrar of Companies (RoC).
  Contains Corporate Identification Number (CIN).
  The company is legally recognized from this date.

Key Requirements

• Minimum 2 and maximum 200 shareholders.
• A minimum of 2 directors (at least one must be a resident of India).
• No minimum capital requirement (can start with even ₹1).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. How many people are needed to start a private limited company?

At least 2 shareholders and 2 directors.

Q2. Can one person start a private limited company?

No, but you can start a One Person Company (OPC) instead.

Q3. Is an office address mandatory?

Yes, a registered office address in India is required.

Q4. How long does registration take?

Usually 7–15 working days, depending on approvals.

Q5. What are MoA and AoA?

The MoA defines the objectives of the company. The AoA lays down rules of management.

Q6. Can foreign nationals be directors?

Yes, but at least one director must be a resident of India.

Q7. What is CIN?

Corporate Identification Number—a unique code allotted by RoC.

Q8. Is there a minimum capital requirement?

No. You can incorporate with even ₹1 as authorised capital.

Q9. Do I need a company secretary for registration?

Not mandatory for small companies.

Q10. Can the company name be changed later?

Yes, with the approval of RoC and the filing of required forms.

Q11. What if my proposed name is rejected?

You can reapply with new names.

Q12. Is GST registration included in incorporation?

No, it has to be applied separately.

Q13. Can a salaried person be a director?

Yes, unless their employment contract restricts it.

Q14. What documents are required from directors/shareholders?

PAN, Aadhaar, proof of address, passport-size photos.

Q15. What if the registered office is rented?

Provide a rent agreement and NOC from the landlord.

Q16. Is a private limited better than an LLP?

Depends. Pvt Ltd is better for raising investment. LLP is simpler for small professional setups.

Q17. Is it compulsory to file annual returns?

Yes, every private limited must file returns with MCA.

Q18. Can two companies have the same name?

No, the name must be unique and not violate trademarks.

Q19. Can a private limited company convert into a public company?

Yes, by following the prescribed procedure.

Q20. Is registration possible without professional help?

Technically yes, but most hire CAs/CSs/lawyers to avoid mistakes.