To start the private limited company registration process, you must get a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) for all directors and subscribers to the Memorandum of Association (MOA). The DSC is required to securely sign and submit e-forms online to the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. Only after affixing the DSC of the authorized signatory can the company incorporation application be processed.
In this stage, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs issues a Director Identification Number (DIN) to an individual, allowing them to serve as a director in a company. Similar to a PAN card, the DIN is a unique, lifetime-issued identification number. Once allotted, it can be used for directorship in any company without reapplication.
The next step in company registration is to reserve a unique name for your proposed business. This is done by filing Form INC-1, where you can suggest up to two names in order of preference. The chosen name must not be identical or too similar to any existing company. Once approved by the Registrar of Companies, the name will be reserved for 15 days, allowing you to proceed with the incorporation process.
Once your company name is approved and reserved, the next step is to submit the online incorporation application for a private limited company. During this process, applications for the company’s PAN and TAN are also generated and must be filed with the MCA after affixing the DSC of the authorized signatory. Upon submitting all required documents, paying the prescribed fees, and approval by the Registrar of Companies, you will receive the Certificate of Incorporation—officially recognizing your business as a legal entity authorized to operate in India.