How to Register a Company in India in 7 Days (Step-by-Step)

Registering a company in India has become significantly faster since the government introduced the SPICe+ (Simplified Proforma for Incorporating Company Electronically Plus) system. With proper preparation, a Private Limited Company can be incorporated in 5–10 working days. Here's the complete step-by-step process.

Step 1: Obtain Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) — Day 1-2

All directors need a Class 3 DSC for signing electronic documents with MCA. Documents required: PAN, Aadhaar, passport-size photo, email, and mobile number. DSC is issued by Certifying Authorities (Emudhra, Sify, CDAC etc.) in 1–2 days with video verification.

Step 2: Director Identification Number (DIN) — Day 2-3

DIN is a unique identification number for directors. For new companies, DIN is automatically allotted during the SPICe+ filing process — you don't need to apply separately. Existing directors use their existing DIN.

Step 3: Name Reservation — Day 2-3

File the RUN (Reserve Unique Name) form on mca.gov.in or include name in SPICe+. Key rules for company names:

• Must end with "Private Limited" or "Limited"
• Cannot be identical or too similar to an existing company
• Cannot use prohibited words (Bank, Insurance, Government etc. without permission)
• 2 name options can be submitted — first preference processed first

Step 4: Draft MOA and AOA — Day 3-4

The Memorandum of Association (MOA) defines the company's objectives. The Articles of Association (AOA) define internal governance rules (how meetings are held, director powers, etc.). For most standard businesses, MCA provides standard templates (Table F for Pvt Ltd) which can be adopted with minimal customisation.

Step 5: File SPICe+ with MCA — Day 4-5

The SPICe+ form (and linked forms AGILE-PRO-S and INC-9) handles:

• Company incorporation
• DIN allotment for new directors
• PAN and TAN allotment (automatic)
• GSTIN registration (optional, in same process)
• EPFO and ESIC registration
• Professional Tax registration (where applicable)
• Opening of bank account

Step 6: MCA Review and Certificate of Incorporation — Day 5-7

After submission, the Registrar of Companies reviews the application. Typical timeline: 3–5 working days if documents are complete. On approval, you receive the Certificate of Incorporation (COI) with the Company Identification Number (CIN) electronically.

Step 7: Post-Incorporation Setup — Day 7+

• Open a current bank account (use CoI, PAN, MOA, and board resolution)
• Apply for GSTIN if not done via SPICe+
• Commence business declaration (INC-20A) within 180 days of incorporation — mandatory
• File DIR-3 KYC for all directors annually
• Appoint a statutory auditor within 30 days of incorporation