How to Register a Startup in India (2026)

How to Register a Startup in India (2026)

Starting a company in India has become significantly easier thanks to digital processes and government initiatives. This guide walks you through every step of registering a Private Limited Company, the most popular structure for funded startups.

Step 1: Obtain Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)

Every proposed director needs a DSC, which is the digital equivalent of a physical signature. You will need:

PAN card copy

Aadhaar card copy

Passport-size photograph

Email ID and phone number

Apply through certified agencies like eMudhra, Sify, or nCode. Cost is approximately INR 500-1500 and takes 1-2 days.

Step 2: Reserve Your Company Name via RUN (Reserve Unique Name)

File the RUN form on the MCA portal. You can propose up to two names in one application. Tips for approval:

Avoid names too similar to existing companies

Do not use government-restricted words

Include your industry or activity in the name

Check the MCA database before applying

The approval usually takes 2-3 working days. Fee is INR 1,000.

Step 3: File SPICe+ Form (Simplified Proforma for Incorporating Company Electronically Plus)

SPICe+ is an integrated web form that bundles multiple registrations into one:

Part A: Name reservation (if not done via RUN)

Part B: Incorporation details including:

- Company address proof

- Director details (DIN application)

- Subscriber details

- Capital structure

Documents required:

MOA (Memorandum of Association)

AOA (Articles of Association)

Address proof of registered office

Identity and address proof of all directors

NOC from property owner

Step 4: Automatic Registrations via SPICe+

Once SPICe+ is approved, you automatically receive:

CIN (Corporate Identification Number)

PAN and TAN of the company

GST registration (if applied)

EPFO registration (Employee Provident Fund)

ESIC registration (Employee State Insurance)

Professional Tax registration (state-specific)

Bank account opening request via AGILE-PRO form

Step 5: Post-Incorporation Compliance

After incorporation, complete these within 30 days:

Open a current bank account in the company name

Get the company stamp/seal made

Issue share certificates to subscribers

Hold the first board meeting within 30 days

Appoint an auditor within 30 days

File INC-20A (commencement of business declaration)

File ADT-1 (auditor appointment form)

Costs Summary

| Item | Approximate Cost |

|------|-----------------|

| DSC (2 directors) | INR 1,000 - 3,000 |

| Government fees (SPICe+) | INR 1,500 - 5,000 |

| Professional fees (CA/CS) | INR 5,000 - 15,000 |

| Stamp duty | Varies by state |

| Total | INR 8,000 - 25,000 |

Timeline

The entire process typically takes 7-15 working days if all documents are in order. Using a professional CA or CS firm can speed things up.

Pro Tips

Always register as a Private Limited Company if you plan to raise funding, as investors and VCs require this structure

Have at least 2 directors and 2 shareholders (can be the same people)

Minimum authorized capital can be as low as INR 1 lakh

You do NOT need a physical office, a virtual office address works for registration

Consider DPIIT recognition immediately after incorporation for tax benefits