By Filing Buddy . 11 Aug 25
You’ve got a killer idea. Maybe even a co-founder or two. You’re ready to take on the world. But before you can raise funding, hire your first employee, or even print business cards you hit the classic founder speed bump:
"Should I register as a Private Limited Company?"
Spoiler alert: Yes and here’s why.
A Private Limited Company (or Pvt Ltd Company, as it's lovingly called) is India’s most popular business structure for startups, SMEs, and even growing solo founders. Governed by the Companies Act, 2013 and regulated by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), it blends the best of all worlds limited liability, legal credibility, tax benefits, and funding readiness.
And here’s the thing: you must complete your private limited registration before launching operations legally. Want a corporate bank account? Need a GST number? Planning to pitch to investors? It all starts here.
Thinking of registering a Pvt Ltd company? Here's your complete guide broken down into bite-sized steps with no boring jargon.
So, you're convinced. Pvt Ltd is the way to go.
But before you dive in, one big question probably has your full attention:
"How much does it cost to register a private limited company in India?"
Short answer? It depends.
Longer answer? Let's break down the key factors that affect your company registration fees so you’re not blindsided later.
Authorised Capital – How Much Are You "Authorising"?
Your authorised capital is the maximum amount of share capital your company is legally allowed to issue. (No, it’s not the money you have to deposit in the bank.)
Example: If your authorised capital is ₹1 lakh, you’re saying, “Hey MCA, we could raise up to ₹1 lakh by issuing shares.”
Good news: The government no longer charges additional fees for authorised capital up to ₹15 lakhs.
But if you go beyond that? Be ready to shell out extra in filing fees and stamp duty.
Pro Tip: Start with ₹1 lakh or ₹10 lakhs scale up later. Don’t overcommit.
Stamp Duty The State Decides the Size of the Sting
Stamp duty is like the silent tax ninja. It varies depending on:
Maharashtra, Punjab, and Kerala, for instance, charge higher stamp duty than states like Delhi or Karnataka.
This component alone can swing your private limited company registration fees by a few hundred to a few thousand rupees.
Pro Tip: If you're on a shoestring budget, registering in a low-stamp-duty state might be worth considering assuming it aligns with your ops.
Professional Fees – Because Google Can’t File SPICe+
Unless you're a legal and compliance wizard (or enjoy decoding MCA forms for fun), you'll likely need help from:
These fees typically include:
Depending on who you hire and the complexity of your registration, professional fees can range from ₹4,999 to ₹25,000+.
Warning: Dirt-cheap services often skip essential add-ons or offer zero post-registration support.
Number of Directors – The More, The Costlier (Slightly)
Each director in your company needs:
That means: More directors = More DSC + DIN = Higher cost
If you have 2 directors (the legal minimum), that’s 2 DSCs and 2 DINs.
Budget tip: Avoid unnecessary directors unless they’re core to your startup journey.
Add-Ons – Because You Might Need More Than Just Registration
Some costs aren’t mandatory for company registration but might be necessary for operations, compliance, or funding. Here’s what you might choose to add:
Add-On | Why You Might Need It |
DSC (Digital Signature Certificate) | Required for signing digital forms |
DIN (Director Identification Number) | MCA requires DINs for all directors |
GST Registration | If your turnover > ₹20L or selling online |
MSME Registration | Helps in getting subsidies, tenders, loans |
Startup India DPIIT Registration | For tax exemptions and recognition |
Trademark Registration | Protects your brand legally |
Each of these comes with its own pricing (₹500–₹5,000+), depending on service provider and documentation.
Smart tip: Bundle these with your Pvt Ltd registration for better rates.
In Summary:
Your private limited company registration fees are a mix of:
There’s no one-size-fits-all cost but understanding these factors helps you plan smarter and avoid last-minute surprises.
Wondering how much it costs to register a company in India?
Let’s just say... it’s not “one flat fee” unless you’re buying a cup of chai and calling it a company.
The actual cost of Pvt Ltd company registration in India (2025) depends on what’s included and who’s doing it for you.
But here’s a no-nonsense table to help you budget smart.
Pvt Ltd Company Registration Fees in India – 2025 Breakdown
Component | Estimated Cost (₹) | Notes |
Government Fees (MCA Filing) | ₹1,000 – ₹2,000 | Varies with authorised capital |
Stamp Duty | ₹1,000 – ₹5,000 | Depends on your state + capital |
Name Approval (RUN/Part A of SPICe+) | ₹1,000 | May repeat if rejected |
Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) | ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 per person | Updated July 2024: DSC fees hiked by certifying authorities |
Director Identification Number (DIN) | ₹500 per director | Usually covered in SPICe+ |
PAN & TAN | Included in SPICe+ | No extra fee |
Professional/Service Provider Fee | ₹4,000 – ₹15,000 | Based on platform or CA/CS fee |
Optional Add-ons (GST/MSME/Startup India, etc.) | ₹0 – ₹5,000 | Depends on requirements |
Total Approximate Cost | ₹6,000 – ₹30,000 | Varies widely by provider, state, and services bundled |
July 2024 Update: DSC Fee Hike Alert!
If you’re registering after July 2024 (which… you are), take note:
DSC prices have gone up across most providers due to regulatory changes and certificate authority costs.
So, if someone offers you a registration package that seems too good to be true especially with free DSCs, ask what corners are being cut.
So, What’s a Realistic Budget?
Pro Tip: Go for value, not just price. A ₹15K one-time investment is better than a ₹5K headache that turns into a compliance nightmare.
Paperwork. The one thing more feared than taxes. But registering a Pvt Ltd company in India doesn’t require a briefcase full of files.
It’s actually less overwhelming than you think, especially when you know what’s needed upfront.
Below is your document checklist for the company registration process in India organized and simplified.
Identity & Address Proof of Directors/Shareholders
Whether you have one director or five, each person must provide:
Note: All documents should be self-attested (signed copies). For NRIs, notarisation may be required.
Proof of Registered Office Address
Every company needs a registered office in India and you’ll need to prove it with:
Pro tip: You can use your home address as your registered office. Your startup, your rules (well, mostly).
MOA & AOA (e-MoA and e-AoA)
These aren’t optional legal jargon; they're the core of your company.
In the online company registration process in India, you’ll submit these as e-MoA (INC-33) and e-AoA (INC-34) via the SPICe+ form.
Because this is a digital process, you need digital stamps of approval:
These forms confirm your identity and intent. MCA doesn’t just take your word for it.
Optional or Conditional Documents
Sometimes, additional docs may be needed depending on your company setup:
Tip: Not sure if something applies to you? That’s where professional help saves time (and MCA rejections).
Final Checklist Before You File
You’re now one giant step closer to completing your company registration in India without pulling your hair out.
Starting a private limited company in India doesn’t have to feel like decoding the Enigma machine.
With MCA’s SPICe+ (Simplified Proforma for Incorporating Company Electronically Plus),the entire Pvt Ltd registration process is now online and streamlined into two parts.
Let’s walk you through the full procedure to register a Pvt Ltd company from DSC to Commencement of Business in plain English.
Obtain Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
Why?
Because you can't sign documents with a pen on a digital platform. DSC is your legally valid e-signature.
Who needs it?
All proposed directors and shareholders.
Where to get it?
From government-approved certifying authorities (like eMudhra, Sify, etc.). You’ll need identity and address proof to apply.
Fun fact: Starting July 2024, DSC fees increased slightly so get it early to avoid delays and cost creep.
Apply for Name Approval (SPICe+ Part A)
What's in a name? Everything.
Here’s where you reserve your company name with the MCA.
How?
Tips:
Example: "Pixel Panda Technologies Pvt Ltd" is more likely to be approved than "Tech Pvt Ltd" (too generic).
File for Incorporation (SPICe+ Part B)
This is the heart of the process. In SPICe+ Part B, you file all incorporation documents in one shot, including:
All attachments must be signed using the DSC.
Pro Tip: Use the AGILE-PRO form simultaneously to register for GST, EPFO, ESIC, and bank account all at once.
Once approved, MCA issues the golden ticket: your Certificate of Incorporation (COI)!
Your company now officially exists
PAN and TAN are auto-generated
COI comes with CIN (Corporate Identification Number)
Usually takes 3–7 business days after submission (if docs are correct)
Open Company Bank Account
With the COI, PAN, and TAN in hand, you can now:
Some banks now support instant digital account setup for startups post-registration.
File Commencement of Business (Form INC-20A)
Wait, you're not done just yet!
Within 180 days of incorporation, you MUST file Form INC-20A to declare:
Penalty for non-compliance?
A fine of ₹50,000 for the company + ₹1,000/day for directors. Ouch.
Once this is filed, your company is fully ready to do business, raise funds, and grow.
That’s it! You’re Officially Registered
So, you’ve made the decision to register a Pvt Ltd company.
You’ve got your documents, your name picked out (hopefully something catchier than “ABC Enterprises”), and you're ready to roll.
But now the million-rupee question: how long does this entire company registration process take?
Ideal Registration Time: 7–10 Business Days
If everything goes smoothly and the MCA gods are smiling upon you, the entire Pvt Ltd registration process can be completed in 7 to 10 working days.
Here’s what a dream run looks like:
With online filing and the SPICe+ form, the process is faster than ever if your documents are flawless and you follow every step to the T.
What Can Delay the Process?
Let’s be real: the process of registering a Pvt Ltd company doesn’t always run like clockwork.
Here are some common banana peels that could trip up your timeline:
Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation
Mismatched names, expired ID proofs, or even blurry PDFs can cause rejection or re-submission.
Tip: Always cross-check your Aadhaar, PAN, address proof, and ensure signatures are digitally applied via DSC.
MCA Server Glitches (Yes, They Happen)
Sometimes, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) website experiences downtime or technical errors. It’s India’s most overworked startup co-founder.
No fix from your end here patience and refresh buttons are your best friends.
Resubmissions / Rejections
If your company name is too generic or resembles an existing entity, MCA may reject your name request.
Similarly, errors in SPICe+ or AGILE-PRO filings can lead to re-submission notices, causing a delay of 2–5+ days.
Always check trademark availability + follow naming conventions to avoid this.
DIN Allocation Issues
If your directors don’t already have a Director Identification Number (DIN), it gets allotted during incorporation.
But if the system flags any verification issues hello, delay!
Bank Account Opening Bottlenecks
Some banks may take longer to verify documents, especially if you haven’t used the AGILE-PRO integration.
Manual KYC processes could take 3–5 days alone.
Bonus: Festive Seasons & Government Holidays
Tried registering a company during Diwali or year-end?
Expect silence from the MCA side. Government holidays and peak season workload can stretch timelines even further.
Final thought: If you want to register a Pvt Ltd company quickly, the key is preparation. Have your documents in order, follow MCA norms, and work with experienced professionals (Filing Buddy).
So, you’ve finally cracked it. Your Private Limited Company is officially registered.
Your CoI (Certificate of Incorporation) is here, your bank account is set up, and you're probably sipping chai feeling like a true CEO.
But hold on this isn’t the end of the road. It’s actually where the compliance journey begins.
Let’s walk you through all the mandatory post-registration compliances your Pvt Ltd company must fulfill to stay out of trouble (and yes, MCA is watching ????).
1. First Board Meeting – Within 30 Days
As per the Companies Act, 2013, every newly incorporated private limited company must hold its first Board Meeting within 30 days of incorporation.
At this meeting, you’ll:
Keep minutes of this meeting. It's not just formalities; it’s mandatory paperwork.
2. Appointment of Auditor (ADT-1) – Within 30 Days
You must file ADT-1 to inform the Registrar of Companies (RoC) about your auditor’s appointment.
Filing ADT-1 = peace of mind + no MCA nightmares.
3. Issuance of Share Certificates – Within 60 Days
Your shareholders need official proof of ownership. You must issue share certificates to all subscribers within 60 days from the date of incorporation.
Don’t delay this; it's a critical compliance requirement.
4. File INC-20A (Declaration of Commencement of Business) – Within 180 Days
INC-20A is a declaration that your company has received the initial capital from shareholders.
Deadline: Within 180 days of incorporation
Proof: Bank statement showing subscription money received
Skip this, and your company status can be struck off. Not fun.
5. Maintain Statutory Registers
Every Pvt Ltd company must maintain the following registers at its registered office:
These aren't just dusty ledgers MCA can demand to see them at any time.
6. Annual Filings – AOC-4, MGT-7, ITR-6
Once your financial year ends (usually 31st March), you’re required to file:
Even if there’s no revenue, filing is compulsory.
7. File DIR-3 KYC – Every Year by 30th September
All directors must complete DIR-3 KYC annually to keep their DIN (Director Identification Number) active.
Mark your calendar for this one. It's a common complaint people forget.
8. GST, MSME, IEC – If Applicable
Depending on your business type, you may also need:
Pro-tip: Apply for these during incorporation via AGILE-PRO to save time later.
Bonus: Other Event-Based Compliances
Apart from the above, certain actions trigger additional filings:
So always check if your “big move” needs MCA documentation.
Your Pvt Ltd Compliance Checklist
Task | Deadline |
First Board Meeting | 30 days |
Auditor Appointment (ADT-1) | 30 days |
Share Certificate Issuance | 60 days |
INC-20A | 180 days |
AOC-4, MGT-7, ITR-6 | Annually |
DIR-3 KYC | Annually |
Statutory Registers | Ongoing |
Pro-Tip:
Compliance isn’t just about avoiding penalties, it's about building trust with investors, customers, and lenders.
A clean compliance record = higher valuation and fewer legal headaches down the line.
Starting a Private Limited Company sounds exciting until you see the bill.
Relax. You don’t have to burn your runway on registration alone.
Here are some smart ways to save money without cutting corners:
1. Start with Low Authorised Capital (You Can Increase It Later)
Authorised capital directly impacts your stamp duty, so starting small = instant savings.
For example:
Think of it as booking a budget hotel on your first night upgrade when you're ready, not before.
2. Go for Bundled Packages (DIN + DSC + PAN + TAN)
Many service providers offer all-in-one registration bundles that include:
This not only reduces cost, but also simplifies coordination no running between multiple vendors.
Pro-tip: Choose packages that also include post-incorporation compliances (like INC-20A), so you don’t end up paying double later.
3. Use Online Platforms Over Traditional CA Firms
Old-school CA firms may charge you ₹25,000+ for basic registration services. Meanwhile, modern online platforms (like Filing Buddy) offer:
Most online platforms register a company for as low as ₹6,000–₹10,000.
Why pay for their posh office rent when you can get the same service online?
So yeah, staying compliant = money saved in the long run.
Bonus: A compliant company attracts investors. A non-compliant one attracts notices.
Don’t register your company like a splurge-happy startup.
Be lean. Be smart. Be compliant.
That’s how you launch efficiently — and impress both your wallet and your investors.
Company registration in India is just the beginning, staying compliant is the real game.
And in 2025, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has tightened the rules.
Miss a deadline? Be ready to pay up.
Let’s break down what’s new, what’s at stake, and how you can avoid a compliance horror story.
What’s Changed? MCA’s New Late Fee Structure (2025 Edition)
Here’s the latest penalty structure announced by the MCA, effective from April 2025:
Yes, you read that right ₹200/day if you’re really late.
Multiply that by a few filings, and boom there goes your marketing budget.
The new penalties apply to all major MCA filings, such as:
Even a simple missed DIR-3 KYC can attract ₹5,000 per director. Imagine having 4 directors.
The Solution: Be Proactive, Not Penalized
Timely compliance = zero penalties. Here’s how to stay ahead:
1. Use Compliance Tracking Tools
2. Set Calendar Reminders for Key Filings
3. Delegate to Professionals
Remember: MCA doesn’t accept “I forgot” as an excuse.
MCA Late Fees Can Sting. Here's How to Dodge Them
What to Do | Why It Helps |
File on time | Avoid escalating penalties |
Use tools | Automate reminders and reduce human error |
Get expert help | Peace of mind (and fewer MCA emails) |
MCA late filing fees are like credit card interest small at first, brutal if ignored.
Don’t let compliance slip through the cracks.
Stay sharp. File early. Sleep easy.
So, you’ve made it this far clearly, you’re serious about private limited registration. And honestly? That’s a smart move.
Let’s rewind the reel and remind ourselves why this decision is such a winner for startups and growing businesses in India:
What Affects Cost (and How to Plan):
We broke down every rupee, from authorised capital and stamp duty to professional fees and add-ons like DSC, DIN, and GST.
Smart tip: Start lean and scale smart. We even gave you cost-cutting hacks!
Yep, we’ve laid out all the documents with no hidden surprises.
Step-by-Step, Made Easy:
With the SPICe+ form, you can register online with ease.
From DSC to Commencement of Business filing, each step was explained in human-speak (not legal-ese).
Even the MCA timelines were simplified, usually 7–10 business days (if you don’t go rogue).
Post-Registration Stuff? Already Handled.
We covered everything you’ll need to stay compliant from board meetings and auditor appointments to filings like AOC-4, MGT-7, and even GST/MSME if needed.
Want to avoid late fees? You know the new MCA penalties now. No more “Oops, I forgot.”
Starting a company can feel overwhelming, but trust us with the right guidance, it’s just step-by-step magic.
If you’re ready to move from “thinking about it” to “owning it” don’t wait for the perfect moment.
Start your online private limited company registration with Filing Buddy today and launch your dream the smart way.
1. What is a Private Limited Company in India?
A Private Limited Company (Pvt Ltd) is a registered corporate entity under the Companies Act, 2013 with limited liability, separate legal identity, and restricted share transferability.
2. How to register a Private Limited Company in India?
To register a Pvt Ltd company, apply online via the MCA portal using the SPICe+ form. You'll need a DSC, DIN, company name approval, incorporation documents (MOA & AOA), and post-approval filings like INC-20A.
3. How many directors are required to register a Pvt Ltd company?
You need a minimum of 2 directors, and at least one must be a resident of India.
4. What is the minimum capital to start a Private Limited Company?
There is no minimum capital requirement. You can start with ₹1 as authorised capital (though most startups opt for ₹1 lakh or above for practical reasons).
5. What are the documents required for Pvt Ltd registration?
You’ll need identity and address proof of directors/shareholders, proof of registered office, MOA, AOA, digital signature (DSC), and consent forms like INC-9 and DIR-2.
6. How long does Pvt Ltd registration take in India?
Ideally, registration takes 7–10 business days, but it may vary depending on document accuracy, name approval delays, or MCA server issues.
7. What is the SPICe+ form in company registration?
SPICe+ (Simplified Proforma for Incorporating Company Electronically Plus) is a web-based MCA form that integrates multiple services like name reservation, DIN allotment, PAN/TAN, GST, EPFO, and more.
8. How much does it cost to register a Pvt Ltd company in India?
The total cost ranges from ₹6,000 to ₹30,000, depending on state stamp duty, authorised capital, number of directors, professional fees, and add-ons.
9. Are PAN and TAN issued automatically during company registration?
Yes, both PAN and TAN are auto-generated with the Certificate of Incorporation (COI) through the SPICe+ form.
10. What is DIN and how many can one person hold?
DIN (Director Identification Number) is a unique ID for directors. A person can hold only one DIN, even if they serve in multiple companies.
11. Can foreigners be directors in a Pvt Ltd company?
Yes, foreign nationals can be directors, but at least one director must be a resident Indian as per Indian company law.
12. What happens after Pvt Ltd company registration?
You must appoint an auditor, issue share certificates, open a bank account, file INC-20A, and maintain statutory registers. GST, MSME, or IEC registration may also be required.
13. Is it mandatory to file INC-20A?
Yes, INC-20A (Declaration for Commencement of Business) must be filed within 180 days of incorporation, or you'll face penalties.
14. What are MOA and AOA in company registration?
MOA (Memorandum of Association) defines the company’s objectives, while AOA (Articles of Association) outlines internal governance and management rules.
15. Can I convert my Pvt Ltd to an LLP or OPC?
Yes, conversion is possible but requires compliance with regulatory conditions, shareholder approval, and filings under the Companies Act.
16. Is online private limited company registration safe and legal?
Absolutely. The entire process is governed by MCA and Registrar of Companies (ROC) under the Companies Act, 2013, and is 100% digital.
17. What are the common reasons for company registration delay?
Incorrect documents, name rejection, unresponsive MCA portal, and incomplete forms are top causes of delay.
18. Can I register a Pvt Ltd company without a CA or CS?
Technically yes, but it’s highly recommended to use expert help to avoid errors and delays online platforms offer bundled services at lower costs.
19. What are the annual compliance requirements for Pvt Ltd companies?
You must conduct board meetings, appoint auditors, file AOC-4 and MGT-7 annually, submit income tax returns, and maintain statutory registers.
20. What are the MCA penalties for late filing in 2025?
As of July 2025, MCA charges ₹100 per day of delay for key filings. Missing timelines can lead to serious penalties and even disqualification of directors.
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