Company registration in India follows a fixed order: choose the structure, get DSC and DIN, reserve the name, file SPICe+ with the MOA and AOA, receive the Certificate of Incorporation, then complete post-incorporation tasks such as the bank account, auditor appointment and commencement declaration.
Key takeaways
- Treat registration as two phases: getting incorporated, and completing the first 180 days of compliance.
- Most delays come from names and address proofs, not from the portal.
- Get the shareholding and director roles right before filing; changing them later costs time and money.
- Keep a single folder of signed documents for banks, GST and audits.
01Phase 1: before you file
- Decide the structure and the ownership split.
- Confirm at least one director is resident in India.
- Check the name against company and trademark records.
- Collect PAN, Aadhaar, photo and address proofs.
- Arrange the registered office address with owner NOC.
02Phase 2: the incorporation filing
- Obtain Digital Signature Certificates.
- File SPICe+ (INC-32) with e-MoA (INC-33) and e-AoA (INC-34).
- Attach the declarations and the professional certificate.
- Pay the government fee and stamp duty.
- Respond quickly to any RoC query.
Once approved you receive the Certificate of Incorporation with the CIN. PAN and TAN are issued with it.
03Phase 3: after you are incorporated
- Open the current account and deposit the subscribers' share capital
- Hold the first board meeting and appoint the first auditor within 30 days
- Issue share certificates and maintain statutory registers
- File the commencement declaration (INC-20A) within 180 days
- Register for GST, Shops and Establishment, PF and ESI where applicable
Calendar the first-year dates the day you incorporate. Our compliance calendar lists the common ones.
04Documents checklist
| Document | For whom |
|---|---|
| PAN and Aadhaar | Every director and subscriber |
| Photo, email, mobile | Every director and subscriber |
| Address proof | Every director and subscriber |
| Utility bill, NOC, rent agreement | Registered office |
| Digital Signature Certificate | Directors and subscribers |
Frequently asked questions
What is the first step in company registration?
Decide the legal structure, then check that your preferred name is available. Both decisions are hard to change later.
Is a minimum capital required?
No minimum paid-up capital is required for a Private Limited company, but the capital should match your real needs.
What happens if I miss the commencement declaration?
The RoC can impose a penalty and may start strike-off proceedings. File INC-20A on time.
Can I do this without a professional?
Yes, but a professional must certify the declaration in SPICe+, and mistakes in the MOA or shareholding are costly to fix.
This guide is general information based on Indian law as understood in October 2026. Rules, fees and due dates change, so confirm current requirements with a qualified Chartered Accountant before you act. It is not professional advice.