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How to register a Private Limited company in India: step by step

18 October 2026

Registering a Private Limited company in India is done online with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). These are the steps, the documents you need and what to do once you have the certificate.

What do I need before I start?

  • At least two directors, and at least two shareholders (the same people can be both)
  • At least one director who has lived in India for the minimum period set in the law
  • A digital signature certificate for each director
  • PAN and Aadhaar of the directors, plus an address proof and a photograph
  • Proof of the registered office address, such as a rent agreement with a recent utility bill and a no-objection letter from the owner

What are the steps to register?

  1. Get digital signatures. Directors sign the forms electronically, so each needs a digital signature certificate.
  2. Choose and reserve a name. The name must be unique and must not be too similar to an existing company or a trademark. You propose names and the Registrar approves one.
  3. File the incorporation application. One integrated form on the MCA portal covers incorporation and, in the same application, can include the PAN and TAN for the company and the registrations for GST, EPFO and ESIC where applicable.
  4. Submit the charter documents. The memorandum and articles of association set out what the company does and how it is run.
  5. Registrar review. The Registrar checks the application and may send queries that you must answer.
  6. Receive the certificate of incorporation. It carries the company's registration number (CIN), and the company's PAN and TAN are issued along with it.

What should I do after incorporation?

  • Open a current account in the company's name and have shareholders pay in the share capital
  • Appoint the first auditor within the time the law allows, which is 30 days from incorporation for the first auditor appointed by the board
  • File the declaration of commencement of business within the time limit, see commencement of business
  • Issue share certificates and set up the statutory registers
  • Register for GST if your turnover or business type requires it

Missing these first steps can lead to penalties and even to the company being struck off, so put them on a calendar from the first week.

How long does registration take?

It depends on how quickly the documents are ready and on how fast the Registrar reviews the application and any queries. We do not promise a fixed number of days.

What does it cost?

The cost is made up of government fees, which depend on the authorised capital and the state, plus professional fees and the cost of digital signatures. Government fees change, so check the current fee table on the MCA portal.

Do I need a professional?

You can file it yourself, but name rejections, defective documents and query replies slow many first-time founders down. Our Experts prepare and file the application and respond to Registrar queries while you follow progress online. See Private Limited company registration.

This article is general information, not individual professional advice. Forms, fees and time limits change, so confirm them on the official MCA portal or with our Experts before you act.