How to Register a Company in India on SPICe+: Step by Step

SPICe+ is the Ministry of Corporate Affairs web form for incorporating a company in India. It combines name approval, incorporation and several linked registrations into one process. This guide walks through the steps and the follow-up tasks founders often miss.

Before you start

Gather these first, since most delays come from document mismatches:

• Identity and address proof for each director and shareholder, with names matching exactly across documents.
• Proof of the registered office, plus the owner's no-objection letter if the premises are rented.
• Digital signatures for those who need to sign.
• Your proposed company name, with a backup, and a clear description of your business.

The steps

1. Part A: reserve the name. Propose up to two names. Guides report that an approved name is held for 20 days, so have the rest of your paperwork ready.
2. Part B: enter company details. Add capital, registered office, directors and shareholders.
3. Complete the linked forms. These include the electronic memorandum (e-MoA), articles of association (e-AoA) and AGILE-PRO-S, which covers registrations such as GST where you opt in.
4. Sign and submit. Upload the signed forms and pay the fees shown on the portal. Fees depend on your capital and state, so go by the amount displayed.
5. Receive your certificate. Once approved, you get the Certificate of Incorporation along with your PAN and TAN.

After incorporation

Your company exists now, but some duties start straight away:

• Open a bank account and receive the subscription money from shareholders.
• File the commencement of business declaration (INC-20A) within 180 days of incorporation.
• Appoint the first auditor within 30 days of incorporation.
• Set up your books and a compliance calendar, including board meetings and annual filings.

Common reasons for delay

• A name too close to an existing company or trademark. Search first, and consider trademark registration for your brand.
• Director details that differ between documents.
• A vague business object that gets queried.

Should you do it yourself?

Many founders use a professional, since one rejected filing can cost more time than the fee saves. If you are still weighing structures, read Private Limited vs LLP. If you would like help, our company registration service handles the filing for you.

Rules and forms change, so check the current version on the MCA portal before you file.