Before you start
- At least two directors, one of them resident in India
- At least two shareholders; directors can be shareholders
- A registered office address with utility bill and owner NOC
- Agreed main business activity and share capital
Step 1: Digital Signature Certificates
Each proposed director needs a Class 3 DSC to sign the incorporation forms. It is issued after online and video verification, usually within a day.
Step 2: Name reservation
The name is applied for in Part A of SPICe+ with up to two options. It should not be identical or too similar to an existing company or registered trademark, and should reflect the business activity. Check the MCA and trademark databases first.
Step 3: Drafting the MOA and AOA
The Memorandum of Association states the company’s objects and capital. The Articles of Association set out internal rules on shares, directors and meetings. Both are filed electronically as part of SPICe+.
Step 4: SPICe+ filing
Part B of SPICe+ covers incorporation, director identification numbers, PAN and TAN, and linked forms for GST, EPFO, ESIC and a bank account where applicable. The forms are signed with DSCs and filed with the government fee and stamp duty.
| Document | From |
|---|---|
| PAN and Aadhaar | Each director and shareholder |
| Address proof | Each director: recent bank statement or utility bill |
| Photograph | Each director |
| Office proof | Utility bill not older than two months |
| Owner NOC and rent agreement | If the office is not owned by the company |
Step 5: Certificate of Incorporation
Once approved, the Registrar issues the Certificate of Incorporation with the CIN, along with the company PAN and TAN. You can now open a current account in the company’s name.
First-month compliance
- Hold the first board meeting within 30 days
- Appoint the first auditor within 30 days
- Issue share certificates to subscribers
- File the commencement of business declaration (INC-20A) within 180 days, after shareholders deposit their subscription money
- Register for GST if required, and set up books of accounts
Frequently asked questions
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Sources
Information is for general guidance and not a substitute for professional advice. Rules, rates and due dates change; confirm with us before acting.