Introduction to Private Limited Company Registration
Incorporating a Private Limited (Pvt Ltd) Company is the most credible, scalable, and investor-preferred corporate vehicle for founders in India. Governed by the Companies Act, 2013 and administered by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), a Private Limited Company offers limited liability protection, a distinct legal identity, and perpetual succession.
In this guide, we break down every stage of the incorporation process through the MCA V3 Portal, required documentation, timelines, and post-incorporation statutory compliance.
Key Eligibility Requirements
- Minimum 2 Directors: At least one director must be a resident of India (stayed for ≥ 182 days in the preceding financial year).
- Minimum 2 Shareholders: Directors can also be shareholders. Maximum limit is 200 members.
- Registered Office: A physical commercial or residential address in India with utility bill and NOC from the owner.
- No Minimum Paid-up Capital: You can start with zero authorized capital requirements (commonly €1,00,000 nominal capital).
The 4-Step Incorporation Lifecycle
| Stage | Key Action | Forms / Systems | Typical TAT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 | Obtain Class-3 Digital Signatures (DSC) for all directors | Certifying Authority (e-Mudhra / Capricorn) | 1 Day |
| Stage 2 | Name Reservation (RUN / SPICe+ Part A) | MCA V3 Portal SPICe+ Part A | 1–2 Days |
| Stage 3 | Drafting MOA, AOA & Integrated Filing | SPICe+ Part B, AGILE-PRO-S, INC-9 | 2–3 Days |
| Stage 4 | Certificate of Incorporation (COI), PAN & TAN Issuance | Central Registration Centre (CRC) Approval | 1–2 Days |
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Pro Tip: Under the Government of India’s ease of doing business reforms, MCA charges ₹0 government filing fee for incorporating companies with authorized capital up to ₹15 Lakhs! You only pay state stamp duty and professional CA/CS fees.
Required Documents Checklist
For Directors & Shareholders:
- Self-attested PAN Card (mandatory for Indian nationals)
- Identity Proof: Voter ID / Passport / Driving License
- Address Proof (≤ 2 months old): Bank Statement / Electricity Bill / Telephone Bill
- Passport-size photograph
For the Registered Office:
- Electricity Bill / Gas Bill / Water Tax Receipt (not older than 30 days)
- NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the property owner
- Rent Agreement (if rented premises)
Post-Incorporation Compliance Checklist
Once your Certificate of Incorporation (CIN) is issued, ensure you complete these time-sensitive legal milestones:
- Form INC-20A (Commencement of Business): Mandatory within 180 days of incorporation. Requires depositing paid-up share capital into the company bank account.
- Appointment of First Auditor (Form ADT-1): Board of Directors must appoint an independent CA within 30 days of incorporation.
- Issuance of Share Certificates: Physical or demat share certificates must be issued to initial subscribers within 60 days.
