Public Limited Company Registration

In India, a Public Limited Company (PLC) is a business structure suited for large-scale operations. Entrepreneurs who are planning for large-scale business operations can start a Public Limited Company registration in India. Unlike private companies, PLCs can raise funds from the general public by offering shares on stock exchanges. This allows them to access a wider pool of capital for growth. A Public Limited Company in India enjoys all the privileges of a corporate entity together with the features of Limited Liability.

IndiaFilings can help you start your public limited company in India with ease and efficiency. Our comprehensive services cover everything from company registration to compliance management, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free setup process for your business.

Start your public limited company registration today with IndiaFilings!  

What is Public Limited Company?

A public limited company is a form of corporate entity that permits the general public to hold ownership stakes through publicly traded shares. These shares are commonly exchanged on established stock markets, enabling a diverse group of brokers, investors, and traders to buy and sell equity. This structure allows individuals from various backgrounds to invest and hold shares in the company.

Unlike private companies, public limited companies are governed by stricter regulatory and reporting standards. In India, the law governing public limited companies is primarily outlined in the Companies Act of 2013. The minimum members in public company is 7, and there is no limit on the maximum number of members /shareholders for starting a Public Limited Company.

The day-to-day operations are managed by an executive team, but the broader ownership lies with the many shareholders who invest in the companys stock. These shareholders typically have voting rights that include the ability to vote on the election of the board of directors. The board then selects the executive team tasked with managing the company's ongoing business affairs. 

Key Characteristics of a Public Limited Company

Below are the fundamental characteristics of a public limited company:

  • Board of Directors: According to the Companies Act, a public limited company must appoint at least three directors, with no upper limit on the number. The board of directors plays a crucial role in governing the company's management and strategic decision-making.
  • Company Name: It is a legal requirement for all public limited companies to include the word "Limited" in their company name. This designation indicates that the company is legally a public entity, capable of trading shares on the stock market and open to investment by the public.
  • The Company's Prospectus: Public limited companies are required to prepare and issue a prospectus. This document offers a detailed look at the company's operational activities and financial health, providing essential information to potential investors and aiding their decision-making process.
  • Paid-Up Capital: While the Companies Act stipulates various regulations for public limited companies, it does not impose a minimum initial share capital requirement for registration. This absence of a specified minimum allows companies the flexibility to set their capital structure according to their specific needs and strategic objectives.

Types of Public Limited Company

Public limited companies are broadly categorised into two distinct types:

Listed Company

This type of public limited company has its shares actively listed and available for trading on one or more stock exchanges. This accessibility allows the public and various financial entities to buy and sell the company's shares, providing greater liquidity and exposure to a diverse pool of investors.

Unlisted Company 

Unlike its listed counterparts, an unlisted public limited company does not have its shares traded on any stock exchange. As a result, its shares are not as easily transferable, and the company does not experience the same level of public scrutiny or regulatory requirements as a listed company. This category of public limited company may appeal to businesses seeking to benefit from a broader base of shareholders while avoiding the complexities of full public trading.

Requirements for Registration of a Public Limited Company

When planning to register a public limited company, it is important to understand and adhere to the specific rules and regulations set under the Companies Act. Here are the key requirements for forming a public limited company in India:

  • Minimum Shareholders: The minimum members in public company to form a PLC is seven shareholders, with no limit on the maximum number.
  • Board of Directors: A minimum of three directors is required to establish a public limited company. Each director must possess a valid Director Identification Number (DIN).
  • Authorised Share Capital: The company should have a minimum authorised share capital of Rs. 1 lakh to meet the initial financial requirements for registration.
  • Digital Signature Certificate (DSC): The registration process includes electronic submission of documents. Therefore, a Digital Signature Certificate of at least one director is necessary for authenticating documents submitted electronically.
  • Company Name: The proposed name of the company must comply with the provisions of the Companies Act and Rules, ensuring it is unique and not already in use.
  • Foundational Documents: Key documents required include the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA). Additionally, Form DIR-12 must be duly filled to register the details of the directors.

Advantages of Public Limited Company Registration

 Registering as a public limited company brings several key benefits:

  • Easier Access to Capital: These companies can raise funds by selling shares to the public, which provides a major boost in capital and makes it easier to fund expansion projects.
  • Financial Flexibility: Public limited companies can raise money using a variety of financial options, thanks to strict regulations that give investors confidence in their investments.
  • Limited Liability: The shareholders of a Public Limited Company are given limited liability protection. In a situation of unexpected liability, the same would be limited only to the company and would not affect the shareholders in any way.
  • Growth Opportunities: Going public can help smaller companies grow by providing the funds needed for expansion and improving operational efficiency due to increased accountability.
  • Flexibility in Shareholder Structure: While the minimum members in Public company are 7 shareholders, there is not upper limit for maximum members.
  • Easy Share Trading: Shares of public limited companies can be bought and sold easily on the stock market, which attracts more investors and makes it simpler for existing shareholders to sell their shares if they choose.

These benefits make public limited companies attractive for businesses looking to expand and attract investment. 

Documents Required for Public Limited Company Registration

To successfully register a Public Limited Company in India, you will need to gather and submit the following documents:

  • Identity Proof for Shareholders and Directors: Acceptable forms of identification include Aadhar cards, PAN cards, or voter IDs for all shareholders and directors.
  • Address Proof for Shareholders and Directors: Documents proving residence are required for all members involved.
  • PAN Card Details: These are needed for all directors, shareholders, and members of the company.
  • Company Office Address Proof: This can be a recent utility bill (not older than two months) that confirms the location of your companyÃ????Ã???Ã??Ã?¢??s office or business premises.
  • Landlord's Consent Letter: A letter from the landlord of your business premises giving permission for your company to operate from that location.
  • Digital Signature Certificates (DSC): Required for all designated directors to authenticate documents digitally.
  • Foundational Documents: Copies of the company's Articles of Association (AOA) and Memorandum of Association (MOA).

Public Limited Company Registration Procedure

Public limited company registration involves several structured steps that adhere to regulatory requirements. Here is a detailed guide to the procedure:

Step 1: Obtain Digital Signature Certificates (DSC)

Before starting the registration process, obtain Digital Signature Certificates (DSC) for all proposed directors and subscribers to the memorandum and articles of association. DSC is essential for filing the forms online on the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) portal.

Step 2: Apply for Director Identification Number (DIN)

Each proposed director must have a Director Identification Number (DIN). This can be applied for using the SPICe form, which also simplifies the application process. You need to provide proof of identity and address as part of the DIN application.

Step 3: Check Company Name Availability

Use the MCA online portal to check if your desired company name is available. It is important to ensure that the name does not infringe upon any existing trademarks or is not already in use. This step is crucial as it establishes the unique identity of your company.

Step 4: File SPICe+ Form

Once the name is approved, proceed to file the SPICe+ form. This comprehensive form is designed to cover all legalities for the incorporation of a company. Along with this form, you will need to submit the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA), which detail the constitution and rules governing the management of the company.

Step 5: Certificate of Incorporation

After the submission of the SPICe+ form and necessary documents, the Registrar of Companies (ROC) will review the application. Upon successful verification, the ROC issues a Certificate of Incorporation. This certificate is a legal document that marks the birth of the company and includes the company's Corporate Identification Number (CIN) and the date of incorporation.

Step 6: Apply for PAN and TAN

With the incorporation certificate in hand, the next step is to apply for the company's Permanent Account Number (PAN) and Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number (TAN). These are essential for all tax-related transactions and compliances.

Step 7: Open a Company Bank Account

Finally, open a bank account in the name of the company. You will need the Certificate of Incorporation, MOA, AOA, PAN, and other relevant documents to set up the bank account. This account will handle all monetary transactions of the company.

Additional Steps

Depending on the nature of the business and the specific sector it operates in, you may need additional approvals or registrations, such as GST registration, import/export code, or industry-specific licenses.

Whatever licenses or registrations you require, the experts at IndiaFilings are here to assist you in starting your public limited company in India.

Start Your Public Limited Company with Ease through IndiaFilings!

Starting your public limited company registration is straightforward and efficient with IndiaFilings. With a proven track record of expert guidance and a commitment to smooth, compliant service, we streamline the entire registration process. From handling all necessary documentation, including DSC, DIN, MOA, and AOA, to ensuring your company complies with all legal requirements, our team is equipped to support you at every step.

Choose IndiaFilings to leverage our expertise and focus more on growing your business while we take care of the bureaucratic hurdles. 

Get started today and easily establish your public limited company in India.

 

Check Business Name Availability

Find if business name can be registered with MCA in India

To register a company in India, the first step is to obtain name approval for the business from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). This process takes about 24-48 hours. A private limited company name in India must end with the words private limited. One Person Company ends with (OPC) private limited. LLP end with LLP and Section 8 companies can end with words like foundation, association or institution.

A company name proposed to be registered cannot be identical or similar to an existing company name. Also, every company name must include a word that denotes the activity undertaken. For example, in VERVE Financial Services Private Limited - Financial Services denote the activity undertaken. Check Business Name Availability

Online Trademark Search

Enter a brand name to search across all trademark classes

All trademarks are registered in India with the Office of the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks. A trademark application has to be filed under a class that denotes the type of goods or services the brand or logo represents. There are 45 trademark classes and each class represent a distinct type of goods or service.

Trademark search can be conducted using the tool above to check if any identical or similar brand or logo is registered or applied for under the same class. If there is an existing application, care must be taken while reapplying to ensure that the application is not rejected by the Trademark Registrar. Trademark Search

Proprietorship vs Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) vs Company

Features Proprietorship Partnership LLP Company
Definition Unregistered type of business entity managed by one single person A formal agreement between two or more parties to manage and operate a business A Limited Liability Partnership is a hybrid combination having features similar to a partnership firm and liabilities similar to a company. Registered type of entity with limited liability to the owners and shareholders
Ownership
  • Sole Ownership
  • Min 2 Partners
  • Max 50 Partners

For One Person Company
  • 1 Director
  • 1 Nominee Director
Registration Time 7-9 working days
Promoter Liability Unlimited Liability Limited Liability
Documentation
  • LLP Deed
  • Incorporation Certificate
Governance - Under Partnership Act LLP Act, 2008 Under Companies Act,2013
Transferability Non Transferable Transferable if registered under ROF Transferable
Compliance Requirements
  • Income tax filing if turnover is more than Rs.2.5 lakhs
Know More

Public Limited Company FAQ's

What is public limited company?

A Public Limited Company (PLC) in India is a publicly traded entity that requires a minimum of seven members, with no limit on the maximum number of shareholders. It allows shares to be offered to the public and traded on stock exchanges.

What are the requirements to be a Director?

The Director needs to be over 18 years of age and must be a natural person. There are no limitations in terms of citizenship or residency. Therefore, even foreign nationals can be Directors in an Indian Private Limited Company.

What are the requirements to be a Director?

The Director needs to be over 18 years of age and must be a natural person. There are no limitations in terms of citizenship or residency. Therefore, even foreign nationals can be Directors in an Indian Private Limited Company.

What is the capital required to start a Limited Company?

You can start a Limited Company with any amount of capital. However, the fee must be paid to the Government for issuing a minimum of shares worth Rs.5 lakhs [Authorized Capital Fee] during the incorporation of the Company. There is no requirement to show proof of capital invested during the incorporation process.

What is the capital required to start a Limited Company?

You can start a Limited Company with any amount of capital. However, the fee must be paid to the Government for issuing a minimum of shares worth Rs.5 lakhs [Authorized Capital Fee] during the incorporation of the Company. There is no requirement to show proof of capital invested during the incorporation process.

Is an office required for starting a Limited Company?

An address in India where the registered office of the Company will be situated is required. The premises can be commercial/industrial/residential where communication from the MCA will be received.

Do I have to be present in-person to incorporate a Limited Company?

No, you will not have to be present at our office or appear at any office for the incorporation of a Limited Company. All the documents can be scanned and sent through email to our office. Some documents will also have to be couriered to our office.

What are the documents required for incorporation?

Identity proof and address proof are mandatory for all the proposed Directors of the Company. PAN Card is mandatory for Indian Nationals. In addition, the landlord of the registered office premises must provide a No Objection Certificate for having the registered office in his/her premises and must submit his/her identity proof and address proof.

How long it will take to incorporate a Company?

IndiaFilings.com can incorporate a Limited Company for in 14-20 days. The time taken for incorporation will depend on the submission of relevant documents by the client and the speed of Government Approvals. To ensure speedy incorporation, please choose a unique name for your Company and ensure you have all the required documents prior to starting the incorporation process.

How long is the incorporation of the Company valid for?

Once a Company is incorporated, it will be active and in existence as long as the annual compliances are met with regularly. In case, annual compliances are not complied with, the Company will become a Dormant Company and may be struck off from the register after a period of time. A struck-off Company can be revived for a period of up to 20 years.

What is the Director Identification Number?

Director Identification Number is a unique identification number assigned to all existing and proposed Directors of a Company. It is mandatory for all present or proposed Directors to have a Director Identification Number. Director Identification Number never expires and a person can have only one Director Identification Number.

What is the authorized capital fee?

The authorized capital of a Company is the number of shares a company can issue to its shareholders. Companies have to pay the Government an authorized capital fee to issue shares in a Company. Companies have to pay an authorized capital fee of a minimum of Rs.5 lakhs.

What are the statutory compliances required for a Limited Company?

A limited company must hold a Board Meeting at least once every 3 months. In addition to the Board Meetings, an Annual General Meeting must be conducted by the Private Limited Company, at least once every year.

Can NRIs/ Foreign Nationals be a Director in a Limited Company?

Yes, a NRI or Foreign National can be a Director in a Limited Company after obtaining Director Identification Number. However, at least one Director on the Board of Directors must be a Resident India.

Can NRIs/ Foreigners hold shares in a Limited Company?

Yes, NRIs / Foreign Nationals / Foreign Companies can hold shares of a Limited Company subject to Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Guidelines.

What are the FDI guidelines for Foreigners in a Limited Company?

100% Foreign Direct Investment is allowed in India in many of the industries under the Automatic Route. Under the Automatic Route, only a post-investment filing is necessary with the RBI indicating the nature of investment made. There are a few industries that require prior approval from the RBI, in such cases, approval must first be obtained from RBI prior to investment.

What if the difference between a Public and a Private Limited Company?

A Public Limited Company is a Company that is listed on the recognized stock exchange and the securities of a Public Limited Company are Traded publicly. A Private Limited Company is not listed on the stock exchange and the securities are held by the members privately.

What are the types of Public Limited Companies?

Private Limited Company is of three types: A company that is limited by the shares A company that is limited by guarantee. Unlimited Company

What are the advantages and the disadvantages of a Public Limited Company?

There are several advantages of incorporation like they offer Limited Liability protection, transferability, borrowing capacity, and others. Whereas the disadvantages of a Public Limited Company are such that a Public Limited Company is difficult to form, there are a lot of legal formalities, lack of secrecy, and a lot of regulatory requirements.

How many people are required to incorporate a Limited Company?

To incorporate a Limited Company, a minimum of seven people are required. A Limited Company must have a minimum of three Directors and seven shareholders.

Zero Late Fee Platform

Many small businesses pay lakhs in penalty every year to the Government for late filing various statutory returns. Such penalty or late fee paid is not tax deductible and is a drain on profitability. At IndiaFilings, our mission is to provide the most affordable services to our customers and help them avoid all late fee.To achieve our mission - we have built enterprise grade technology to help you proactively know the upcoming compliance and avoid penalty.Checkout our compliance services below, talk to an Advisor and stop paying unwanted late fees.

Zero Late Fee Platform

Related Business Registrations

In addition to registration or incorporation, a business may require other registrations depending on the business activity undertaken. Talk to an Advisor to find out registrations your business may require post registration.

MCA Compliance

Every registered entity must fulfill its compliance obligations at the end of each financial year. These typically encompass tasks such as auditing financial records, filing income tax returns, and submitting annual forms to the MCA.

Form Company Compliance Due date Penalty
COB Filing Commence of Business Certificate To be filed before 180 days of company Incorporation Rs.50,000 for non-compliance
DIR 3 EKYC Any director with DIN On or Before 30th September every year Deactivation of the DIN
A late filing fee of Rs.5,000
Disqualification of the Directors
Form ADT 1 Appointment of auditor Within 15 days from the date of appointment of the Auditor Late fees will be applicable, with fees ranging from 2 to 12 times the nominal fee, depending on the number of days of delay.
Form AOC 4 Filing financial statements of the company 30 days from the conclusion of the AGM Late fees will be applicable, with fees ranging from 2 to 12 times the nominal fee, depending on the number of days of delay.
Form MGT 7 Annual Returns of the Company 60 days from the conclusion of the AGM

In addition to the above filings, depending on the type of entity and business activity more compliance filing maybe applicable. Please check with an IndiaFilings Advisor to help you with the compliance for your company.

All Limited Liability Partnerships (LLP) registered in India are required to file statutory returns with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) each year. IndiaFilings can help you maintain your LLP Compliance at a very affordable price.

Form LLP Compliance Due date Penalty
DIR 3 KYC For every designated partners of a limited liability partnership (LLP) with DIN Before 30th September every year Deactivation of the DIN
A late filing fee of Rs.5,000
Disqualification of the Partners
Form 11 Annual Returns May 30th every year Late fees will be applicable, ranging from 1 to 15 times the nominal fee for Small LLPs and 1 to 30 times the nominal fee for other than Small LLPs, depending on the number of days of delay.
Form 8 Statements of Accounts and Solvency 30th October every year

Apart from the aforementioned filings, there might be additional compliance filings that could be relevant for LLPs. Please consult with an IndiaFilings Advisor to assist you with the compliance needs of your LLP.

Entity Form Due date
Private Limited Company Annual Return (Form MGT-7) 60 days from the conclusion of the AGM or 28th November 2024 (Which Ever is Earlier)
Financial Statements (Form AOC-4) 29th October 2024
DIR-3 KYC 30th September 2024
Form DPT-3 30th June 2024
Form ADT-1 Within 15 days from the date of appointment of the Auditor
ITR 6 (Non audit case) 31st July 2024
ITR 6 (Audit Cases) 31st October 2024
GSTR 9 31st Dec 2024
Limited Liability Partnership ITR 5 (Non audit case) 31st July 2024
ITR Form 5 (Audit case) 30th September 2024
Annual return - Form 11 30 May 2024
Financial Statements - Form 8 30 October 2024

Note : Get in touch with our experts to efficiently handle your compliance filings, whether you are an LLP, a company, partnership firm or a proprietorship. Contact us to ensure your compliance is filed before the due date.

Smarter Banking

Avail a range of banking services through IndiaFilings.com. IndiaFilings can help you open a current account, get a payment gateway or avail loans through our Partner Banks.

Customer Reviews For Public Limited Company

IndiaFilings has over 1 lakh customers and we have completed over 7 lakh services through our platform. At IndiaFilings, we take pride in the services delivered by us and guarantee your satisfaction with our services and support. We constantly improve and strive to deliver the best accounting, financial or secretarial services through the internet.

BIKASH MAHATO L

Public Limited Company
Verified Customer
28 November 2022
How can we improve?

Prompt and Ethical

NAGA KRISHNAVENI V

Public Limited Company
Verified Customer
01 July 2022
How can we improve?

Excellent

MUHAMMAD RAFIQUE

Public Limited Company
Verified Customer
29 April 2022
How can we improve?

Rafique was great completed the services on time I am very happy with him Indiafilings

POORNIMA SAHU N

Public Limited Company
Verified Customer
15 January 2021
How can we improve?

Good

DHVANI MODI

Public Limited Company
Verified Customer
17 January 2020
How can we improve?

with keep in touch by daily update pendency and status

JAWED AKHTAR ANSARI

Public Limited Company
Verified Customer
30 January 2019
How can we improve?

GOOD SERVICES

BINEETH BENNY

Public Limited Company
Verified Customer
03 October 2018
How can we improve?

good service

REEMA LOVELYN

Public Limited Company
Verified Customer
17 September 2018
How can we improve?

good services provide by Reema

Public Limited Company Registration in State


Public Limited Company Registration in City


 
X
User

Live Chat

Chat with Experts

Consult our team about Public Limited Company service on live chat.

loading...
safe & secure checkouts OTP

Phone Verification

Enter OTP send to

By continuing, you agree to the IndiaFilings Terms of Service.