One Person Company (OPC) registration in India is an ideal choice for solo entrepreneurs looking to establish a corporate entity with limited liability and fewer compliance requirements. To successfully complete the OPC registration process, specific documents must be submitted to the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). These include identity and address proofs, consent, registered office proof, MoA, AoA, and other essential forms. The OPC registration documents ensure a smooth application process. This guide provides a complete list of required documents, details on OPC registration fees, and insights into the overall OPC registration cost in India.
What is an OPC (One Person Company)?
A One Person Company (OPC) is a type of private limited company that can be owned and managed by a single individual. It was introduced under the Companies Act, 2013, to help small entrepreneurs establish a corporate entity with fewer compliance requirements.
Key Features of an OPC:
• Limited liability protection
• Single-owner management
• No mandatory annual general meetings
• Conversion to a private limited company if turnover exceeds Rs.2 crore
Documents Required for OPC Registration in India
1. Identity Proof of the Director and Nominee
Since an OPC company has only one director and a nominee (who takes over in case of death/incapacity of the director), both individuals must provide identity proof. The accepted identity proofs include:
• PAN card (mandatory for Indian citizens)
• Passport (for foreign nationals)
• Aadhaar card
• Voter ID
• Driving license
2. Address Proof of the Director and Nominee
To verify the residential address of the director and nominee, any of the following documents can be submitted:
• Latest utility bills (electricity, water, or gas)
• Bank statement or passbook with the current address
• Telephone or mobile bill (not older than two months)
3. Consent of the Nominee (Form INC-3)
As per the OPC registration process, a nominee must be appointed, who will take charge of the company in case of unforeseen events. The nominee must:
• Fill and sign Form INC-3
• Attach a self-attested PAN card and address proof
4. Registered Office Address Proof
An OPC company must have a registered office in India. The proof of office address should include:
• Ownership proof (Sale deed if owned by the director)
• Rental agreement (If rented, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the owner is required)
• Utility bill (Electricity, water, or gas bill, not older than two months)
5. Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA)
These two documents are critical for defining the company’s objectives and internal management:
• Memorandum of Association (MoA) – States the business objectives
• Articles of Association (AoA) – Outlines rules and regulations for internal governance
6. Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is required for digitally signing the OPC registration form and other documents. It is obtained from a government-recognized certifying authority. The applicant needs to submit:
• Passport-size photograph
• PAN card
• Address proof
7. Director Identification Number (DIN) (Form DIR-3)
The Director Identification Number (DIN) is a mandatory requirement for all directors in India. It is obtained through Form DIR-3 while filing for incorporation.
8. Declaration by the Director (Form INC-9)
A declaration stating that the director is not disqualified under the Companies Act is mandatory. This declaration is filed through Form INC-9.
9. Specimen Signature of the Director
A specimen signature of the director should be submitted for verification purposes.
Step-by-Step OPC Registration Process
Step 1: Obtain a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
The first step in the OPC registration online process is to get a DSC for the director to sign digital documents.
Step 2: Apply for Director Identification Number (DIN)
The next step is to apply for a DIN using Form DIR-3. This unique identification number is issued by the MCA.
Step 3: Name Reservation (SPICe+ Form)
You need to reserve your company name using the SPICe+ (INC-32) form. The name should comply with the MCA guidelines.
Step 4: Drafting MoA and AoA
Prepare the Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA) and submit them along with the incorporation application.
Step 5: Filing Incorporation Application (SPICe+ Form)
File the incorporation application using the SPICe+ form along with all necessary OPC registration documents.
Step 6: Issuance of Incorporation Certificate
Once the documents are verified, the Registrar of Companies (RoC) issues the OPC registration number, officially incorporating the company.
OPC Registration Fees and Cost in India
The OPC registration cost in India depends on various factors such as professional fees, government charges, and additional services.
Government Fees for OPC Registration
Particulars |
Approximate Fees (Rs.) |
Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) | 1,000 - 2,000 |
Director Identification Number (DIN) | 500 |
Name Approval (SPICe+ Form) | 1,000 |
Stamp Duty (varies by state) | 500 - 5,000 |
Incorporation Fees | 2,000 - 7,000 |
Advantages of OPC Registration
• Limited Liability Protection – The owner’s liability is limited to the company’s capital.
• Separate Legal Entity – An OPC is a distinct legal entity from its owner.
• Easy Compliance – Less regulatory burden compared to private limited companies.
• Tax Benefits – Various exemptions are available under income tax laws.
Conclusion
Registering a One Person Company (OPC) in India is a structured process that requires submitting essential documents to ensure compliance with the Companies Act, 2013. From identity proofs and nominee consent to MoA, AoA, and registered office details, each document plays a crucial role in the OPC registration process. The necessary paperwork helps streamline the process, reducing delays and legal hurdles. Additionally, being aware of the OPC registration fees and overall OPC registration cost in India ensures proper financial planning. By preparing the required documents in advance, entrepreneurs can efficiently establish their business and enjoy corporate benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What are the key documents required for OPC registration in India?
Ans. The essential documents for OPC registration include:
• PAN card and Aadhaar card of the director and nominee
• Address proof (utility bill, bank statement, or rent agreement)
• Nominee consent form (INC-3)
• Registered office proof (ownership deed or rent agreement with NOC)
• Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA)
• Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) and Director Identification Number (DIN)
Q2. What is the role of the nominee in an OPC, and what documents are required?
Ans. A mandatory appointment with an OPC company, who will take over in case of the director’s inability or failure. The nominee must provide:
• PAN card and Aadhaar card
• Address proof (utility bill or bank statement)
• Consent via Form INC-3
Q3. Is a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) mandatory for OPC registration?
Ans. Yes, a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is required for digitally signing the incorporation documents, including the OPC registration form. It must be obtained from a government-recognized certifying authority.
Q4. How much does OPC registration cost in India?
Ans. The OPC registration cost in India varies by state due to stamp duty differences. The estimated costs include:
• DSC: Rs.1,000 – Rs.2,000
• Name approval (SPICe+ Form): Rs.1,000
• Stamp duty: Rs.500 – Rs.5,000 (depending on the state)
• Incorporation and professional fees: Rs.5,000 – Rs.10,000
Total cost: Rs.8,000 – Rs.20,000
Q5. Can a foreign national register an OPC in India?
Ans. No, only an Indian citizen and a resident of India can incorporate an OPC company. Foreign nationals and NRIs are not eligible to register an OPC.
Q6. How long does the OPC registration process take?
Ans. The OPC registration process typically takes 7-10 working days, depending on document verification, government processing time, and approvals from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).