Starting a Public Limited Company (PLC) is one of the most structured and credible ways to do business in India. This type of company is ideal for large-scale enterprises looking to raise capital from the public through shares. It enjoys higher credibility with banks, investors, and regulatory authorities compared to private companies.
In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of public limited company registration in India, along with eligibility, documents, and compliance requirements.
Key Features of a Public Limited Company
Minimum 7 shareholders and 3 directors are required.
No maximum limit on the number of shareholders.
Shares can be freely transferred.
Mandatory compliance with the Companies Act, 2013 and SEBI (if listed).
Separate legal entity status and limited liability protection for shareholders.
Eligibility for Public Limited Company Registration
Before starting the registration process, the business must ensure it meets the basic eligibility requirements:
At least 7 members/shareholders.
At least 3 directors (one must be an Indian resident).
Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) and Director Identification Number (DIN) for all directors.
Registered office address in India.
Name approval from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).
Step-by-Step Process of Public Limited Company Registration
Step 1: Obtain DSC (Digital Signature Certificate)
Required for all proposed directors and shareholders.
Used to sign e-forms on the MCA portal.
Step 2: Apply for DIN (Director Identification Number)
A unique identification number for directors.
Can be applied through SPICe+ Form or separately.
Step 3: Name Approval
File Part A of SPICe+ (INC-32) for reserving the company name.
The name should comply with MCA guidelines and not resemble existing companies or trademarks.
Example: “XYZ Limited”.
Step 4: Drafting of MOA & AOA
MOA (Memorandum of Association): Defines the objectives and scope of the company.
AOA (Articles of Association): Defines internal rules and management procedures.
Step 5: Filing of Incorporation Forms
File SPICe+ Part B along with required attachments:
MOA (INC-33)
AOA (INC-34)
Declaration by directors (INC-9)
Consent to act as directors (DIR-2)
PAN & TAN applications can also be filed simultaneously.
Step 6: Certificate of Incorporation (COI)
Once approved, MCA issues the Certificate of Incorporation.
Contains CIN (Corporate Identification Number), which serves as the legal identity of the company.
Step 7: Apply for GST, EPFO & ESIC Registration
Through AGILE-PRO (INC-35) form, you can simultaneously apply for:
GSTIN (if turnover exceeds threshold)
EPFO (Employee Provident Fund)
ESIC (Employee State Insurance)
Step 8: Open a Bank Account
Use COI, PAN, and other incorporation documents to open a current account in the company’s name.
Documents Required for Public Limited Company Registration
Identity Proof (PAN, Passport, Aadhaar, Voter ID of directors & shareholders)
Address Proof (Utility bill/Bank statement not older than 2 months)
Passport-size photographs of all directors/shareholders
Proof of registered office address (Electricity/Water bill, Rent agreement/NOC from landlord)
Digital Signature Certificates
Post-Incorporation Compliance
Appointment of statutory auditor within 30 days.
Hold the first Board Meeting within 30 days.
Issue share certificates to shareholders.
File annual returns and financial statements with MCA.
Comply with SEBI regulations if the company is listed.
Benefits of Public Limited Company
Access to unlimited capital through public issue of shares.
Higher credibility with banks, vendors, and investors.
Limited liability protection for shareholders.
Transferability of shares makes it easy to expand and bring in new investors.
Conclusion
The process of Public Limited Company registration in India may appear complex, but with proper documentation and expert guidance, it becomes seamless. A PLC is best suited for businesses with long-term growth vision and capital-raising needs.
