In short: choose a private limited company if you plan to raise investment or issue shares, an LLP for a professional or family business that wants limited liability with lighter compliance, and a one person company (OPC) for a single founder. Companies are registered online with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) through SPICe+, and LLPs through FiLLiP. Registration is the easy part; the yearly filings are what founders most often miss.
Private limited company, LLP or OPC
| Private limited company | LLP | One person company | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum people | 2 directors, 2 shareholders | 2 designated partners | 1 member, 1 director |
| Raising investment | Easiest: shares, ESOPs, venture capital | Harder; no shares | Must convert to raise equity |
| Yearly compliance | Higher: board meetings, AGM, audit, ROC filings | Lower: two annual forms; audit only above limits | Moderate |
| Liability | Limited to shares | Limited to contribution | Limited |
How to register a private limited company
- Digital signatures (DSC) for the proposed directors and subscribers.
- Name: check availability against existing companies and trademarks, and reserve it (RUN, or Part A of SPICe+).
- SPICe+ (INC-32) with the memorandum and articles (e-MoA, e-AoA), director details (DIN is allotted in the form), and the registered office proof. AGILE-PRO-S in the same filing gives GST, EPFO, ESIC and a bank account.
- Certificate of incorporation with the CIN, PAN and TAN.
At least one director must have stayed in India for 182 days or more in the financial year. There is no minimum share capital.
Documents usually needed
- PAN and Aadhaar (or passport for foreign nationals) of each director and shareholder;
- address proof and photograph of each;
- registered office proof: a utility bill, plus the rent agreement or owner's no-objection.
The first compliances after registration
- appoint the first auditor within 30 days;
- file the declaration of commencement of business (INC-20A) within 180 days, after shareholders pay for their shares;
- open the bank account, issue share certificates, and hold the first board meeting within 30 days;
- register a trademark for the brand: a company name alone does not protect it.
Questions people ask
Which is better, a private limited company or an LLP?
A private limited company if you want investors or plan to grow and issue shares. An LLP for professionals and closely held businesses that want limited liability with fewer formalities.
How long does company registration take in India?
Usually one to two weeks once documents are ready, depending on name approval and MCA processing.
Can a single person register a company?
Yes, as a one person company (OPC). An Indian citizen resident in India can form one.
Can a foreign national be a director of an Indian company?
Yes, but at least one director must be resident in India, and foreign investment must follow FEMA rules for the sector.
Does company registration protect my brand name?
No. Registering a company name does not give trademark rights. File a trademark application separately.
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Become a ClientCall +91 81001 21141This guide gives general information about the law in India as on 11 November 2026. It is not legal advice for your situation, and reading it does not create a lawyer-client relationship. Rules and limits change; please take advice on your own facts.