Company Registration in India: Step-by-Step Process for 2026
Starting a business legally begins with proper company registration in India. Whether you are launching a startup, agency, or online business, registering your company gives you legal identity, credibility, and access to banking and funding.
In 2026, the registration process has become faster and mostly online through the MCA (Ministry of Corporate Affairs) portal. This guide explains everything step-by-step in simple language.
Types of Company Structures in India
Before starting the company registration in India process, choose the right business structure.
1. Private Limited Company (Most Popular)
Best for: startups, scalable businesses
Features:
- Separate legal entity
- Limited liability
- Easy funding from investors
- Requires minimum 2 directors
✅ Recommended for growth-focused businesses
2. One Person Company (OPC)
Best for: solo founders
Features:
- Single owner
- Limited liability
- Less compliance than Pvt Ltd
- Cannot raise equity easily
✅ Good for small single-owner businesses
3. Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
Best for: professionals, small firms
Features:
- Flexible structure
- Lower compliance
- Partnership model
- Limited liability protection
✅ Popular among consultants and agencies
4. Partnership Firm
Best for: small local businesses
Features:
- Easy to start
- Minimal compliance
- No separate legal identity
⚠️ Not ideal for scaling businesses
Documents Required for Company Registration
Keep these ready before starting company registration in India.
For Directors / Partners
- PAN card
- Aadhaar card
- Passport size photo
- Email ID & mobile number
- Address proof (bank statement / utility bill)
For Registered Office
- Electricity bill (latest)
- Rent agreement (if rented)
- NOC from owner
- Property papers (if owned)
For Company
- Proposed company name
- Business activity details
- Capital structure
💡 Pro tip: Clear documents speed up approval.
Step-by-Step Company Registration Process (2026)
Here is the latest MCA process:
Step 1: Get DSC (Digital Signature Certificate)
All directors must obtain DSC because filings are done online.
Time: 1–2 days
Cost: ₹500–₹1,500 per director
Step 2: Apply for DIN (Director Identification Number)
DIN is mandatory for company directors.
👉 Usually applied within SPICe+ form now (simplified in 2026)
Step 3: Name Reservation (SPICe+ Part A)
Submit 1–2 unique name options.
Approval time: 1–3 working days
✅ Tips:
- Avoid similar existing names
- Avoid trademark conflicts
- Follow MCA naming rules
Step 4: File SPICe+ Form (Company Incorporation)
This is the main step in company registration in India.
Includes:
- MOA (Memorandum of Association)
- AOA (Articles of Association)
- Director details
- Registered office details
- PAN & TAN application
Approval time: 3–7 working days
Step 5: Certificate of Incorporation (COI)
Once approved, MCA issues:
- CIN number
- Company PAN
- TAN
- Incorporation certificate
🎉 Your company is now legally registered!
Step 6: Open Business Bank Account
After incorporation:
- Use COI
- PAN
- Board resolution
- KYC documents
Government Fees for Company Registration in India (2026)
Approximate costs:
| Company Type | Government Fees | Professional Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Private Limited | ₹1,500 – ₹7,000 | ₹3,000 – ₹15,000 |
| OPC | ₹1,000 – ₹5,000 | ₹2,500 – ₹10,000 |
| LLP | ₹500 – ₹4,000 | ₹3,000 – ₹12,000 |
💡 Fees vary based on capital and state.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many founders delay approval due to these errors:
❌ Choosing Wrong Company Type
Always select structure based on growth plan.
❌ Name Rejection
Top reasons:
- Similar to existing company
- Trademark conflict
- Using restricted words
❌ Incorrect Documents
- Address mismatch
- Blurry scans
- Expired utility bills
❌ Wrong Business Activity
Be clear and specific in the object clause.
❌ DIY Without Knowledge
Improper filing can cause:
- Resubmission
- Rejection
- Compliance issues later
✅ Using experts saves time.
Why Register Your Company in 2026?
Benefits of proper company registration in India:
- Legal protection
- Limited liability
- Better brand credibility
- Easy funding access
- Government scheme eligibility
- Business bank account
- GST & trademark readiness
How AdvocateAdda Helps
With AdvocateAdda, company registration becomes simple and fast.
🚀 What You Get
✔️ Expert consultation
✔️ Name approval support
✔️ Complete MCA filing
✔️ PAN & TAN included
✔️ Fast turnaround
✔️ Affordable pricing
✔️ Pan-India service
Whether you are a startup, agency, or entrepreneur, AdvocateAdda connects you with verified professionals for smooth registration.
FAQs
Q1. How many days does company registration take in India?
Usually 5–10 working days if documents are correct.
Q2. Is GST mandatory after company registration?
Only if your turnover crosses the threshold or business requires it.
Q3. Can I register a company alone?
Yes, you can choose OPC for single ownership.
Q4. What is the minimum capital required?
There is no minimum capital requirement for Pvt Ltd in India.
