How to Register a Private Limited Company in India (Documents, Fees, Timeline)

Starting a company in India is one of the most rewarding steps for entrepreneurs, and among all business structures, the Private Limited Company (Pvt Ltd) stands out as the most preferred option. Whether you are launching a startup, building a service-based business, or planning to attract investors, a Pvt Ltd company offers the perfect mix of credibility, flexibility, and legal protection.

A Private Limited Company is recognized under the Companies Act, 2013 and is treated as a separate legal entity distinct from its owners. It provides limited liability protection to shareholders, meaning their personal assets remain safe if the company faces losses. In addition, it enjoys higher trust with banks, clients, and investors, making it the top choice for entrepreneurs who want to scale their business in the long run.

The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has also made the registration process much simpler through the SPICe+ (Simplified Proforma for Incorporating a Company Electronically Plus) system, which allows entrepreneurs to complete incorporation, PAN, TAN, and even GST registration in one go.

In this guide, Tax Rupees will cover everything you need to know about registering a Private Limited Company in India — from the step-by-step process to the documents required, fees involved, and the timeline for registration.

Why Choose a Private Limited Company?

When it comes to starting a business in India, entrepreneurs have multiple structures to choose from — Proprietorship, Partnership, LLP, OPC, or Private Limited Company. Among these, the Private Limited Company (Pvt Ltd) is the most preferred choice, especially for startups and high-growth businesses. Let us understand why:

1. Separate Legal Entity

A Pvt Ltd company is recognized as an independent legal entity under the Companies Act, 2013. This means the company itself can own assets, borrow funds, and enter contracts in its own name, separate from its shareholders. Learn more about company structures on our Pvt Ltd vs LLP vs OPC vs Partnership comparison.

2. Limited Liability Protection

In a proprietorship or partnership, the owner’s personal assets are at risk if the business faces debts or losses. In contrast, Pvt Ltd shareholders have their liability restricted to the amount they invest in shares.

Example: If your company defaults on a ₹15 lakh loan, your personal savings or property remain safe.

3. Easier Fundraising

Banks, angel investors, and venture capitalists prefer Pvt Ltd companies because of their transparent structure and credibility. If you are planning to scale or raise external funding, this is the most suitable option. Also check our piece on ways to raise capital in India.

4. Credibility and Trust

Clients, vendors, and even global partners take Pvt Ltd companies more seriously than unregistered firms or partnerships. It is often a prerequisite for signing bigger contracts or working with corporates. See our Private Limited Company service page for more.

5. Eligibility for Schemes & Tax Benefits

Pvt Ltd companies are eligible for Startup India benefits, tax deductions, and can attract 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) under the automatic route. For trademark protection, learn how to apply at our trademark registration service.

In short: A Private Limited Company offers limited liability, higher credibility, and better fundraising opportunities, making it the most reliable structure for entrepreneurs who want to grow fast and build long-term businesses.

Step-by-Step Registration Process of a Private Limited Company

The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has simplified Pvt Ltd company registration by introducing the SPICe+ form. This integrated form allows you to complete incorporation, PAN, TAN, and even GST registration in one application. Here is the step-by-step process every entrepreneur should know:

Step 1: Obtain Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)

• Why needed? To sign and submit electronic forms securely.
• Documents required: PAN, Aadhaar, email ID, mobile number, and passport-size photo.
• Validity: 1–2 years.
• Time required: 1–2 days.

? Pro tip: Apply for DSCs early, as the process cannot move forward without them. We offer DSC services — get DSC.

Step 2: Apply for Director Identification Number (DIN)

• What is DIN? A unique identification number issued to every director of an Indian company.
• How to apply? Earlier via DIR-3; now integrated into SPICe+.
• Documents required: Identity proof (PAN), address proof, and photo.
• Time required: Same day as SPICe+ filing (if applied within).

Step 3: Reserve the Company Name

• Process: File Part A of SPICe+ on the MCA portal — you can apply for two names at a time.
• Guidelines: Must end with “Private Limited,” should not resemble existing companies/trademarks, and cannot include restricted words without approval.
• Time required: 2–3 days for approval.

Always check name availability on the MCA and Trademark databases before applying. Want help checking name & trademark? We can check it for you.

Step 4: Draft MOA and AOA

Prepare the core documents:

• Memorandum of Association (MOA): Defines the objectives and scope.
• Articles of Association (AOA): Rules for governance and management.

These can be prepared using the MCA’s e-MOA and e-AOA templates.

Step 5: File SPICe+ Part B Form

This is the crucial filing step. SPICe+ Part B includes:

• Incorporation details (capital, office address, directors, shareholders)
• DIN allotment (if required)
• PAN & TAN application
• GST registration (optional)
• EPFO and ESIC registration
• Bank account opening (via AGILE-PRO-S)

You must upload supporting documents (ID proofs, address proofs, MOA, AOA) and pay government fees & stamp duty (varies by state/authorized capital).

Step 6: Certificate of Incorporation (CoI)

After ROC verification, the Registrar issues the Certificate of Incorporation (CoI), which contains:

• Corporate Identity Number (CIN)
• Date of incorporation
• PAN & TAN details

This document legally establishes your company.

Step 7: Apply for PAN, TAN, and Bank Account

• PAN & TAN are auto-generated with CoI.
• Open a current bank account — banks typically require CoI, PAN, MOA, AOA, and a board resolution.

Step 8: Apply for GST (if applicable)

If your annual turnover is expected to exceed ₹40 lakh (₹20 lakh for services), you must register for GST. You can apply during SPICe+ filing via AGILE-PRO-S. For official GST rules and forms, visit the GST Portal. We also provide GST registration services: Register GST.

Timeline Summary

With proper documentation, Pvt Ltd company registration can be completed within 7–10 working days.

Practical Example

Case Study: Rohan and Priya, two software engineers, wanted to launch a SaaS startup. They chose the Private Limited structure because they planned to raise angel funding. After obtaining DSCs, reserving the name “TechNova Private Limited,” and filing the SPICe+ form, they received their CoI within 9 working days. With PAN, TAN, and GST ready, they opened a corporate bank account and began operations legally.

Documents Required for Private Limited Company Registration

Documents must be uploaded as scanned PDFs on the MCA portal and digitally signed with DSC. Submitting correct documents avoids delays.

1. Identity Proof of Directors and Shareholders

• PAN Card – Mandatory for Indian citizens.
• Passport – Mandatory for foreign nationals/NRIs (notarized & apostilled if required).

2. Address Proof of Directors and Shareholders

• Aadhaar Card
• Voter ID
• Passport
• Driving License
• Bank statement
• Utility bill (electricity, water, gas or landline)

3. Passport-Size Photographs

Recent color photographs (preferably white background).

4. Proof of Registered Office Address

• Latest utility bill (not older than 2 months).
• If rented: Rent agreement + NOC from landlord.
• If owned: Sale deed or ownership papers.

5. Utility Bills and NOC

Utility bills confirm office existence; landlord NOC permits use as registered office.

6. Company-Specific Documents

• Draft Memorandum of Association (MOA)
• Draft Articles of Association (AOA)
• Digital Signature Certificates (DSC) for all directors/subscribers

Pro Tip: Ensure details (spelling, DOB, father’s name) match exactly across all documents to prevent delays.

Fees & Cost of Private Limited Company Registration in India

Costs depend on state, number of directors, and authorized share capital. Broad categories:

1. Government Fees & Stamp Duty
2. DSC & DIN Charges
3. Professional Fees (CA/CS/service provider)

Additional Costs to Consider:

• Authorized capital impact - govt. fees rise above ₹1 lakh authorized capital.
• State variation - stamp duty differs by state.
• Annual compliance - expect ₹15,000–₹25,000 per year for filings, audit, and compliance.

Pro Tip: While registration costs are higher than LLP/Partnership, the benefits for fundraising and credibility make it worthwhile for growth-focused businesses.

Post-Registration Compliance for Private Limited Company

After incorporation, ongoing compliance is essential to avoid penalties or strike-off:

1. Open a Current Bank Account

• Required documents: CoI, PAN, MOA, AOA, and board resolution.
• All business transactions should run through this account.

2. Obtain GST Registration (if applicable)

Mandatory if turnover exceeds ₹40 lakh (₹20 lakh for services). Can be applied via AGILE-PRO-S during incorporation.

3. Maintain Statutory Registers & Records

• Register of members and directors
• Minutes of board meetings and general meetings
• Books of accounts and financial records

4. Annual ROC Filings

• Form AOC-4 (financial statements)
• Form MGT-7 (annual return)
• Statutory audit — mandatory for every Pvt Ltd

5. Income Tax Compliance

• File annual ITR
• Deduct & deposit TDS where applicable
• Pay advance tax if liability exceeds ₹10,000

6. Other Compliances

• EPFO & ESIC registration if you employ more than 10 people
• Shops & Establishment license if applicable

Pro Tip: Non-compliance can attract penalties of ₹10,000–₹1,00,000 or even strike-off by the ROC. Hiring a CA/CS helps avoid these risks. For our ongoing compliance services, see annual compliances for Pvt Ltd.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Pvt Ltd Registration

1. Choosing a conflicting name: Check MCA & Trademark Registry before applying.
2. Incorrect or mismatched documents: Ensure spellings and details match across PAN, Aadhaar, and utility bills.
3. Ignoring compliance costs: Budget for annual ROC filings, audit, and taxes.
4. Using residential address without NOC: Always attach landlord NOC if required.
5. Lack of professional guidance: DIY filings often lead to rejections; consider a CA/CS.

Pro Tip: Proper planning and expert help can save weeks of delay and reduce penalty risk.

How TaxRupees Can Help

Registering a Private Limited Company is one of the smartest decisions for entrepreneurs, but the process can feel complicated with multiple forms, documentation, and compliance requirements. Even a small mistake can cause delays, rejections, or penalties. That is where TaxRupees comes in.

We simplify the entire journey so you can focus on building your business while we handle the legal and compliance side. Our services include:

• Advisory on Business Structure
• End-to-End MCA Filings (DSC, DIN, SPICe+)
• Hassle-Free Documentation & Verification
• Affordable Packages & Transparent Pricing
• Ongoing Compliance Support (ROC, GST, ITR, Audits)

Still Confused about Pvt Ltd registration? Talk to TaxRupees experts today and register your company hassle-free.

FAQs on Private Limited Company Registration in India

1. What is the minimum requirement to register a Private Limited Company in India?

You need at least 2 directors and 2 shareholders (they can be the same individuals). At least one director must be a resident of India.

2. How much does it cost to register a Private Limited Company?

On average, it costs ₹15,000–20,000, including government fees, DSC/DIN charges, and professional fees. Exact cost varies by state and authorized share capital.

3. How long does it take to register a Pvt Ltd company?

If documents are in order, the process usually takes 7–10 working days. For companies with foreign directors, allow extra time for notarization/apostille.

4. Can a Private Limited Company be registered with family members?

Yes. You can register a Pvt Ltd company with family members as directors/shareholders.

5. Can I register a Private Limited Company at my home address?

Yes, if you provide a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the property owner and a recent utility bill.

6. Is GST registration mandatory for Pvt Ltd companies?

No, GST is not mandatory at the time of incorporation. You must register once turnover exceeds ₹40 lakh (₹20 lakh for services).

7. Do I need an office space to start a Pvt Ltd company?

No. A residential address can be used as the registered office initially (with NOC); you can change it later via MCA filings.

8. Can NRIs or foreign nationals register a Pvt Ltd company in India?

Yes. NRIs and foreign nationals can be directors/shareholders, but at least one director must be a resident of India. Their documents may require notarization & apostille.

9. Is an audit mandatory for a Private Limited Company?

Yes. Every Pvt Ltd company must conduct a statutory audit, regardless of turnover.

10. What happens if I don’t file annual compliance?

Non-compliance can lead to heavy penalties (₹10,000–₹1,00,000) and even strike-off of the company from MCA records.

11. Can I convert a Pvt Ltd company into another structure later?

Yes. Conversions (e.g., to LLP or Public Limited Company) are possible subject to MCA procedures and approvals.

12. Why should I choose a Pvt Ltd company over an LLP or Partnership?

Pvt Ltd offers better credibility, fundraising opportunities, limited liability, and global recognition — ideal for businesses that want to scale.

Still confused about registration? TaxRupees experts can guide you in choosing the right structure and handle the entire process hassle-free.