A private limited company is the most common structure for businesses that want limited liability, a separate legal identity and an easy route to investment. Registration is done online with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) through the SPICe+ form. This guide lists the requirements, documents and steps as of October 2026.
Basic requirements
- Directors: at least 2 and up to 15, with at least one director who is resident in India (stayed in India for 182 days or more in the previous year).
- Shareholders: at least 2 and up to 200. A director can also be a shareholder.
- Capital: there is no minimum paid-up capital. Many companies start with an authorised capital of ₹1 lakh, but you should choose a figure that fits your plans because stamp duty depends on it.
- Registered office: a valid address in India with proof of the right to use it.
- Name: unique, not identical or too similar to an existing company or trademark, and consistent with the naming rules.
Documents needed
- PAN of all directors and shareholders, with address and identity proof.
- Passport-size photographs of the directors.
- Proof of the registered office, such as a rent agreement with a recent utility bill, and a consent letter from the owner.
- A Class 3 Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) for each director.
The registration process (SPICe+)
- Get DSCs and DINs. Each director needs a Class 3 DSC. The Director Identification Number (DIN) is allotted through the SPICe+ form for new directors.
- Reserve the name. SPICe+ Part A lets you propose up to two names for MCA to check. Check the MCA name search and trademark records first to avoid rejection.
- Draft the MoA and AoA. The Memorandum of Association states what the company will do. The Articles of Association set out how it will be run.
- File SPICe+ Part B. Enter the details of directors and shareholders, the capital structure and the registered office, and attach the documents.
- Use AGILE-PRO. The linked form lets you apply for GST registration, EPFO and ESIC registration and a bank account together with incorporation.
- Pay the fees and stamp duty. The amounts depend on the authorised capital and the state of the registered office.
- Receive the certificate. The Registrar issues the Certificate of Incorporation with the Corporate Identification Number (CIN). The company PAN and TAN are allotted along with it.
With documents ready, incorporation usually takes about 7 to 15 working days, longer if MCA raises queries.
What to do after incorporation
- Open the bank account in the name of the company and bring in the subscribed share capital.
- Appoint the first auditor within 30 days of incorporation by a board resolution, and file Form ADT-1.
- File INC-20A (declaration of commencement of business) within 180 days of incorporation. Without it the company can face penalties and the directors can be affected.
- Issue share certificates and maintain the statutory registers and minutes.
- Register for GST, PF and ESI if they were not completed through AGILE-PRO and if they apply to you.
- Plan the annual filings. See our annual ROC compliance checklist.
What does it cost?
The government cost has two parts: MCA fees and stamp duty on the MoA and AoA, both of which depend on the authorised capital and the state. Digital signature certificates are an additional small cost for each director. Professional fees depend on how many directors, shareholders and special clauses are involved, so ask for a written quote that lists every item.
Private limited, LLP or OPC?
- A private limited company suits businesses that plan to raise equity funding, issue employee stock options or build a brand with a corporate structure.
- An LLP has lighter compliance and works for professional firms and small partnerships, but it cannot issue shares.
- A One Person Company lets a single founder have a company with one shareholder.
Need help?
SS Auditors handles name checks, DSCs, incorporation filings and the first-year compliance set-up for companies across Bangalore. See private limited company registration or contact us.
Last reviewed October 2026. This article is general information, not advice for your specific case. Confirm the current MCA requirements with a professional before filing.