1. What is a private limited company?

In India, a private limited company is a privately held entity with limited liability, and it ranks among the nation’s most favoured business structures. This popularity is primarily attributed to its numerous advantages, including limited liability protection, ease of formation and maintenance, and its status as a distinct legal entity. A private limited company enjoys legal separation from its owners and necessitates a minimum of two members and two directors for its operation. Here are the key characteristics of a private limited company in India:

• Limited Liability Protection: Shareholders of a private limited company are liable only to the extent of their shareholding. Their assets remain safeguarded, even in cases of financial setbacks incurred by the company.
• Separate Legal Entity: A private company possesses its own distinct legal identity. It can own property, engage in contracts, and initiate or defend legal actions under its unique name.
• Minimum Number of Shareholders: A private company must have a minimum of two shareholders and cannot exceed 200 shareholders.
• Minimum Number of Directors: A private limited company necessitates a minimum of two directors. At least one of these directors must be an Indian citizen.
• Minimum Share Capital: The company must maintain a minimum paid-up capital of Rs. 1 lakh or a higher amount as specified.
• Name of the Firm: The private limited company’s name must conclude with the words “Private Limited.”
• Restrictions on Share Transfer: The right to transfer shares within a private limited company is restricted. Shares can only be transferred with the approval of the Board of Directors or following the company’s Articles of Association.
• Prohibition on Public Invitation: Private limited companies are prohibited from inviting the public to subscribe to their shares or debentures.
• Compliance Requirements: Private limited companies are obligated to adhere to various legal and regulatory obligations, including maintaining proper financial records, conducting annual general meetings, and filing annual returns with the ROC.

In summary, the attributes of a private limited company in India make it a favoured choice among entrepreneurs, owing to its advantageous features and relatively straightforward structure.

2. Types of Private Limited Companies:

• Company Limited by Shares: Shareholders’ liability is limited to the nominal share amount mentioned in the Memorandum of Association.
• Company Limited by Guarantee: Member liability is limited to the amount of guarantee specified in the Memorandum of Association. This guarantee is invoked only during winding up.

• Unlimited Companies: Members of unlimited companies have unlimited personal liability for the company’s debts and liabilities. However, they are still considered a separate legal entity, and individual members cannot be sued.

3. Requirements for Registering a Company in India:

a. Directors and Members:

A minimum of two directors and 200 members are required for Private Limited Company Registration in India, as per the Companies Act of 2013.

Directors must have a Director Identification Number (DIN) issued by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).

At least one director must be an Indian resident, having spent 182 days in India in the previous calendar year.

b. Company Name:

When selecting a name for a private limited company, two factors must be considered:

The name should reflect the principal activity of the business.

c. Address of the Registered Office:

After the company registration process, the company must provide the permanent address of its registered office to the company registrar. Business operations occur in this office, and all relevant company documentation is maintained.

4. Company Registration Process

Registering a company in India involves a straightforward four-step process:

a. Step 1: Acquire a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)

Every director and shareholder must secure a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) issued by the Controller of Certification Agencies (CCA). This involves providing essential details such as passport-sized photos, PAN, Aadhaar Card, phone number, and email address. Foreign nationals should also furnish notarized and apostilled documents if applicable.

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b. Step 2: Director Identification Number (DIN)

Obtain a Director Identification Number (DIN) if you intend to be a director in the company. DIN is essential for directors and needs to be provided in the registration form.

c. Step 3: Name Reservation for the Company (SPICe+ Part A)

Begin by completing the SPICe+ Part A form to secure a unique company name. This entails selecting the company type, class, category, and sub-category, specifying the primary division of industrial activity and offering a comprehensive business description. You’ll need to propose two names for approval.

d. Step 4: Submission of Company Details (SPICe+ Part B)

Provide comprehensive information concerning capital, registered office address, subscriber and directors’ details, stamp duty, PAN and TAN application, and necessary attachments. Ensure compliance with the Companies Act 2013 and obtain digital signatures from assisting professionals.

e. Step 5: Preparation and Submission of Incorporation Forms (SPICe+ MOA and AOA)

Draft the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA) containing crucial company details. Obtain digital signatures from subscribers and professionals before submitting these documents to the MCA for approval.

Additionally, file the AGILE-PRO-S form to register for GST, EPFO, ESIC, a bank account, and a shop and establishment license (which may be state-dependent).

Certificate of Incorporation

Upon successful document verification, the MCA will issue the Certificate of Incorporation (COI) with the Company Identification Number (CIN), PAN, and TAN.

Post-Registration Compliance

Following incorporation, adhering to post-registration company compliances is essential. This includes maintaining proper financial records, conducting annual general meetings, and filing annual returns with the Registrar of Companies (ROC).

FAQs relating to Private Limited Company Registration

1. Advantages of choosing a private limited company?

   Limited liability protection, separate legal identity, ease of funding, tax benefits, and enhanced credibility.

2. Compliance requirements after registering a private limited company?

   Maintaining financial records, conducting annual meetings, filing annual returns, and adhering to tax regulations.

3. Can foreign nationals register a private limited company in India?

   Yes, with at least one Indian resident director and compliance with additional requirements.

4. Typical duration of the company registration process?

   Around 10 to 15 days, subject to document accuracy and government workload.

5. Significance of obtaining a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)?

   Ensures authenticity of electronically filed documents, enhancing security and eliminating the need for physical signatures.

6. What is the minimum capital requirement for a private limited company?

   The minimum paid-up capital requirement for a private limited company in India is Rs. 1 lakh or a higher amount as specified.

7. Is there a limit on the number of shareholders in a private limited company?

   Yes, a private limited company in India cannot exceed 200 shareholders.

8. Can shares be freely transferred in a private limited company?

   No, the right to transfer shares within a private limited company is restricted and requires approval from the Board of Directors or adherence to the company's Articles of Association.

9. What is the significance of having "Private Limited" in the company name?

   It indicates the company's legal structure and distinguishes it as a privately held entity with limited liability.