Private Limited Company
A Private Limited Company (Ltd) is a business structure where ownership is restricted to private shareholders, liability is limited, and shares aren’t publicly traded.
What is a Private Limited Company?
In India, a private limited company is a privately held entity with limited liability, and it ranks among the nation’s most favored business structures. This popularity is primarily attributed to its numerous advantages, including limited liability protection, ease of formation and maintenance, and its status as a distinct legal entity. A private limited company enjoys legal separation from its owners and necessitates a minimum of two members and two directors for its operation. Here are the key characteristics of a private limited company in India:
Types of Private Limited Companies:
Company Limited by Shares:
Shareholders' liability is limited to the nominal share amount mentioned in the Memorandum of Association.
Company Limited by Guarantee:
Member liability is limited to the amount of guarantee specified in the Memorandum of Association. This guarantee is invoked only during winding up.
Unlimited Companies:
Members of unlimited companies have unlimited personal liability for the company's debts and liabilities. However, they are still considered a separate legal entity, and individual members cannot be sued.
Advantages of a Private Limited Company
Limited Liability:
Distinct Legal Identity:
Continuous Existence:
Ease of Funding:
Tax Benefits:
Credibility and Trust:
Documents Required for Private Limited Company Registration
- Aadhar and PAN Card of the Directors;
- Latest passport-sized photos of all the proposed Directors;
- Identity proof of the Directors;
- Address proof of the Directors.
- Rent Agreement
- Proof of registered office of the Company. The following documents must be submitted as address proof of the Company:
- Rental Agreement or Tenancy Agreement between the landlord and Company;
- Letter/NOC from the Landlord of their permission to use the premise or office as the company’s registered office;
- Sale Deed of the Company premise in the Company’s Name; MoA & AoA of the Company.
Private Limited Company Registration Process
Step 1: Acquire a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
Step 2: Director Identification Number (DIN)
Step 3: Name Reservation for the Company (SPICe+ Part A)
Step 4: Submission of Company Details (SPICe+ Part B)
Step 5: Preparation and Submission of Incorporation Forms (SPICe+ MOA and AOA)
Additionally, file the AGILE-PRO-S form to register for GST, EPFO, ESIC, a bank account, and a shop and establishment license (which may be state-dependent).
Certificate of Incorporation
FAQs on Private Limited Company Registration
A Pvt. Ltd Company is a privately held business entity where shares are not publicly traded.
- Generally, at least two directors and shareholders are required, along with a registered office address in India.
Limited liability protection, separate legal entity status, and easier access to funding are key benefits.
It involves obtaining Digital Signature Certificates (DSCs), Director Identification Numbers (DINs), name approval, drafting of MOA and AOA, and filing incorporation forms.
Regular filing of annual returns, financial statements, holding board meetings, and maintaining statutory records.
The timeline varies but typically takes 15-30 days, depending on document preparation and government processing times.