Independent Directors: Appointment, Roles And Duties

Jun 3, 2025
Private Limited Company vs. Limited Liability Partnerships

As a company scales, especially into the public space or handles significant external investment, governance becomes just as important as growth. That’s where independent directors step in, professionals who are not involved in the company’s daily business but are legally empowered to hold the board accountable.

Under the Companies Act, 2013, they are defined as non-executive directors with no material or financial ties to the company.

In this blog, we’ll break down the definition, eligibility, appointment process, responsibilities, and legal framework governing independent directors in India.

Table of Contents

Who is the Independent Director?

The Companies Act, 2013 mandates the appointment of independent directors for certain classes of companies to improve governance standards. An Independent Director is a non-executive board member unrelated to the promoters or management and has no financial or material interest in the company that could affect their independence.

They are expected to bring an impartial voice to boardroom decisions, safeguard the interests of all stakeholders, particularly minority shareholders, and maintain high standards of integrity and objectivity

Applicability of Appointing an Independent Director

Listed Companies

All listed public companies are required to have at least one-third of the total number of directors as independent directors.

Unlisted Public Companies

The following unlisted public companies must appoint at least two independent directors:

  • Paid-up share capital of Rs. 10 crores or more;
  • Turnover of Rs. 100 crores or more;
  • Outstanding loans, debentures, and deposits exceeding Rs. 50 crores.

These thresholds are calculated based on the latest audited financial statements. Independent directors must declare their independence at the time of appointment and thereafter annually. Details of their appointment, including terms and roles, must be published on the company’s website.

Certain companies are exempt, including:

  • Joint ventures
  • Wholly-owned subsidiaries
  • Dormant companies

Criteria for Independent Directors, Companies Act 2013

Key eligibility conditions under the Companies Act, 2013 include:

  • Must possess a valid DIN (Section 152(3)).
  • Must not be disqualified under Section 164.
  • Should adhere to the Code of Conduct as per Schedule IV.
  • Cannot hold directorships in more than 20 companies (Section 165), with a maximum of 10 public companies.
  • Must register in a databank maintained by a government-authorised body (Section 150).
  • Shareholders must approve the appointment via a special resolution (as per SEBI regulations).
  • Disclosure requirements include their professional profile, relationship with other board members, existing directorships, and skill set relevant to the board.

Role of an Independent Director

Independent directors are essential for maintaining the credibility of a company’s governance. Their responsibilities include:

  • Providing unbiased opinions on company strategies, operations, and risk.
  • Participating in various board committees such as audit, nomination, and remuneration.
  • Monitoring the performance of executive management.
  • Ensuring the interests of minority shareholders are protected.
  • Involvement in succession planning and key managerial evaluations.
  • Overseeing the integrity of financial reporting and compliance with laws.

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Conduct of an Independent Director

Independent directors are expected to adhere to the highest standards of professional conduct. Their responsibilities include:

  • Exercising independent judgment in the best interest of the company.
  • Avoiding conflicts of interest and disclosing any potential conflicts.
  • Acting objectively without bias or influence.
  • Ensuring the confidentiality of sensitive boardroom discussions.
  • Upholding ethical standards and promoting transparency.
  • Informing the board if their independence is compromised.

Duties of an Independent Director

The Companies Act and SEBI's corporate governance norms outline several duties for independent directors:

  • Attend all board and committee meetings.
  • Remain informed about the company’s business and industry.
  • Safeguard the interests of stakeholders, particularly minority shareholders.
  • Report unethical behaviour or suspected fraud.
  • Maintain confidentiality of non-public information.
  • Participate in the functioning of the vigil mechanism and whistleblower policies.
  • Guide management on strategic direction and risk management.

Procedure to Appoint an Independent Director for a Company

  1. Obtain Consent and Declarations:
    • DIR-2 (Consent to act as a director)
    • DIR-8 (Non-disqualification declaration)
    • MBP-1 (Disclosure of interest)
    • Declaration of Independence
  2. Nomination and Remuneration Committee Approval:
    • Evaluate candidate suitability and recommend to the board.
  3. Board Resolution:
    • Pass a board resolution for the appointment.
  4. Shareholders’ Approval:
    • Approve the appointment via special resolution at the next general meeting.
  5. Post-Appointment Compliance:
    • File DIR-12 with ROC.
    • Make disclosures to the stock exchange (if applicable).
    • Update the company’s website.
    • Issue a formal appointment letter.
    • Submit Form B to the stock exchange (for listed companies).
    • Update registers and statutory records.

How long does an independent director remain in his position?

An independent director can be appointed for a term of up to five years. They may be reappointed for one more term (another five years) by passing a special resolution. However, they cannot hold office for more than two consecutive terms.

After serving two terms (a total of 10 years), the individual must step down and can be reappointed only after a three-year cooling-off period, during which they should not be associated with the company in any capacity.

Conclusion

In an era of high public scrutiny and fragile trust in institutions, independent directors play a vital role in reinforcing credibility. They offer a much-needed outside-in view, hold the board accountable, and ensure that shareholder value is not built at the cost of ethics.

Under the Companies Act, 2013, and SEBI norms, companies are not just expected to have independent directors- they are expected to empower them. When selected thoughtfully, these directors offer more than oversight; they provide insight, foresight, and a balanced voice at the table.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


Limited Liability Partnership
(LLP)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Professional services 
  • Firms seeking any capital contribution from Partners
  • Firms sharing resources with limited liability 

One Person Company
(OPC)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Freelancers, Small-scale businesses
  • Businesses looking for minimal compliance
  • Businesses looking for single-ownership

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


One Person Company
(OPC)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Freelancers, Small-scale businesses
  • Businesses looking for minimal compliance
  • Businesses looking for single-ownership

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


Limited Liability Partnership
(LLP)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Professional services 
  • Firms seeking any capital contribution from Partners
  • Firms sharing resources with limited liability 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the tenure of appointment of independent directors?

As per Section 149(10) of the Companies Act, 2013, an Independent Director can be appointed for a term of up to five consecutive years. They are eligible for reappointment for another five-year term, subject to the passing of a special resolution by shareholders.

Who is an Independent Director under the Companies Act, 2013?

Under Section 149(6) of the Companies Act, 2013, an Independent Director is defined as a non-executive director who:

  • Has no material or financial relationship with the company, promoters, or directors.
  • Is not a promoter or related to promoters or directors of the company.
  • Has not been an employee or partner of the company, its auditors, or legal/consulting firms associated with the company in the last 3 years.
  • Does not hold 2% or more of the total voting power of the company (either individually or with relatives).
  • Possesses relevant expertise, integrity, and experience required for the role.

Who cannot be an Independent Director?

The following persons are disqualified from becoming an Independent Director:

  • Promoters of the company or any of its group entities.
  • Persons related to promoters or directors of the company.
  • Any employees or former employees of the company, its holding, subsidiary, or associate in the last 3 financial years.
  • Partners or employees of the company's audit, legal, or consulting firms in the past 3 years.
  • Individuals holding a substantial shareholding (2% or more) in the company.

How do I register myself as an Independent Director?

To register as an Independent Director in India:

  • Enroll on the Independent Directors' Databank maintained by the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) via www.independentdirectorsdatabank.in.
  • Provide your personal, professional, and educational details.
  • Submit a declaration of independence and consent forms (like DIR-2 and DIR-8) when appointed.
  • If not already a director, obtain a Director Identification Number (DIN) by filing Form DIR-3 with the Registrar of Companies.
  • If you do not have experience as a director, you may need to pass an online proficiency self-assessment test within one year of registration (as per MCA rules).

Who is eligible to be an Independent Director?

Eligibility criteria under Section 149(6) and SEBI (LODR) Regulations include:

  • Minimum age: Generally 21 years
  • Must be a person of integrity and possess relevant expertise and experience.
  • Must meet all the independence criteria as listed above (no financial, employment, or family ties to the company).
  • Must not be disqualified under Section 164 of the Companies Act.
  • Should not be an independent director in more than seven listed companies (or three if already serving as a whole-time director in any listed company).
  • Must be registered on the IICA databank and may need to clear the online test (unless exempted due to experience).

Related Posts

 LLP Registration Fees: How much does an LLP cost in India?

LLP Registration Fees: How much does an LLP cost in India?

Starting a business in India is an exciting journey, but it begins with one crucial decision—choosing the right business structure. For entrepreneurs, particularly those leading small and medium enterprises (SMEs), a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) has emerged as a favoured choice. 

This is due to its unique combination of the operational flexibility of a traditional partnership and the protective shield of limited liability that separates personal assets from business obligations.

An LLP is governed by the Limited Liability Partnership Act of 2008, which provides a robust legal framework and ensures a balance between flexibility and compliance. This structure is ideal for businesses looking to scale steadily while enjoying benefits like simplified compliance procedures and protection against unlimited liability.

In this blog, we’ll explain the various expenses associated with LLP registration online in India, including mandatory fees, additional charges, and professional costs. 

Table of Contents

How Much Does an LLP Cost in India?

The cost of LLP registration in India depends on multiple factors, including government fees, professional assistance, and other associated charges. Here’s a detailed breakdown of LLP registration fees:

1. LLP Registration Fees

The government fees for LLP registration are based on the contribution amount:

  • For a contribution of up to ₹1 lakh: ₹500
  • For a contribution between ₹1 lakh and ₹5 lakhs: ₹2,000
  • For a contribution between ₹5 lakhs and ₹10 lakhs: ₹4,000
  • For a contribution above ₹10 lakhs: ₹5,000

2. Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) Fees

At least one designated partner must obtain a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) to sign and file documents online. Depending on the certifying authority, the cost of a DSC typically ranges from ₹2,000 to ₹4,000 per partner.

3. Professional Fees

While registering an LLP can be done independently, most entrepreneurs prefer to consult professionals (legal advisors or company secretaries) to ensure compliance. These fees can vary widely depending on the platform.

4. Stamp Duty Fees

Stamp duty is state-specific and varies based on the LLP’s contribution amount and the location of its registered office. On average, stamp duty can range from ₹500 to ₹5,000.

5. Name Reservation Fees

Reserving a unique name for your LLP costs ₹200 per application. This step ensures your chosen name complies with MCA guidelines.

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Other Costs Involved in Registering an LLP in India

Apart from the mandatory registration fees, here are additional LLP registration charges to consider:

1. LLP Agreement Drafting Charges

Drafting the LLP agreement, which outlines the rights, duties, and profit-sharing ratios of the partners, typically costs between ₹2,000 and ₹10,000, depending on complexity and professional assistance.

2. Notarisation Charges

Once the LLP agreement is drafted, it needs to be notarised. The charges for notarisation depend on the contribution amount and the state in which the LLP is registered, averaging ₹500 to ₹2,000.

3. Late Filing Penalties

Timely filing of required forms is crucial to avoid penalties. For instance, the late filing fee for Form 3 (LLP Agreement) is ₹100 per day of delay. Budgeting for timely compliance ensures you avoid these avoidable costs.

Professional Legal Charges Involved in Registering an LLP in India

When setting up a business, time is of the essence, and navigating the registration process can be overwhelming, especially for first-time entrepreneurs. While the government fees for LLP registration are standardised, the professional fees for legal and compliance services can vary depending on your required scope of assistance.

Engaging a qualified professional may feel like an added expense initially, but it can save you significant time, stress, and potential errors in the long run.

Here’s why hiring a professional for your LLP registration is worth the investment:

  • Drafting the LLP Agreement: The LLP agreement is more than just a legal document—it’s the backbone of your business operations. It defines the roles, responsibilities, profit-sharing ratios, and decision-making processes among partners. 
  • Name Reservation Assistance: Choosing the right name for your LLP can be tricky. The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has stringent guidelines to ensure uniqueness and avoid duplication.
  • Digital Signature Certificate (DSC): A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is mandatory for designated partners to sign and file documents electronically during the registration process. Professionals assist in obtaining the DSC efficiently, ensuring you meet this requirement without delays.

At Razorpay Rize, we simplify the registration process by offering end-to-end support, covering everything from drafting agreements and obtaining DSCs to securing name reservations. 

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Our LLP package includes:

  • Company Name Registration
  • Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) tokens
  • DSC shipping & support
  • Designated Partner’s Identification Numbers (DPIN)
  • Certificate of Incorporation(COI)
  • LLP Agreement
  • Company PAN & TAN

With our team of experts managing the legalities, you can focus on building and growing your business confidently.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Register your Business starting at just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

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Register your Limited Liability Partnership in just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

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Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


Limited Liability Partnership
(LLP)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Professional services 
  • Firms seeking any capital contribution from Partners
  • Firms sharing resources with limited liability 

One Person Company
(OPC)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Freelancers, Small-scale businesses
  • Businesses looking for minimal compliance
  • Businesses looking for single-ownership

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


One Person Company
(OPC)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Freelancers, Small-scale businesses
  • Businesses looking for minimal compliance
  • Businesses looking for single-ownership

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


Limited Liability Partnership
(LLP)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Professional services 
  • Firms seeking any capital contribution from Partners
  • Firms sharing resources with limited liability 

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Will It Cost for LLP Registration?

LLP registration fees in India range from ₹7,000 to ₹25,000 or more, including government fees, DSC, professional assistance, and stamp duty. The exact cost depends on the contribution amount and location.

What is the Stamp Duty for LLP?

Stamp duty varies by state and contribution amount. It generally ranges from ₹500 to ₹5,000 or 0.1%–0.2% of the total contribution, depending on state regulations.

Mukesh Goyal

Mukesh Goyal is a startup enthusiast and problem-solver, currently leading the Rize Company Registration Charter at Razorpay, where he’s helping simplify the way early-stage founders start and scale their businesses. With a deep understanding of the regulatory and operational hurdles that startups face, Mukesh is at the forefront of building founder-first experiences within India’s growing startup ecosystem.

An alumnus of FMS Delhi, Mukesh cracked CAT 2016 with a perfect 100 percentile- a milestone that opened new doors and laid the foundation for a career rooted in impact, scale, and community.

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Promoting Innovations in Individuals, Startups and MSMEs (PRISM)

Promoting Innovations in Individuals, Startups and MSMEs (PRISM)

Promoting Innovations in Individuals, Startups, and MSMEs (PRISM) is a program that offers grants, technical support, and mentorship to individual innovators, including students, guiding them through each stage of incubating their ideas into new enterprises.

Description Who is it for? Benefits
To provide grants, technical advice, and mentorship to individual innovators, guiding them through the various stages of incubating their ideas until they transform into viable enterprises For Innovators in the technology area Upto INR 2,00,000 or 90% of the approved project cost for prototype or model development
The essentials of US Incorporations - documents, eligibility and process.

This grant-aid support is implemented in phases:

  • Phase-1
    Category 1: For Proof of concept/prototype/models
    Category 2: For fabrication of working model/ process know-how/testing & trail/ patenting/ technology transfer, etc.
  • Phase-2
    For scaling up technology-based innovations, including patenting/design registration/trademark registry/ technology transfer to develop a marketable product/process towards enterprise creation.

Table of Contents

Eligibility

  • For PRISM Phase-1:
    Any Indian citizen, including student innovators, can avail support to develop their novel ideas into demonstrable models/prototypes.
  • For PRISM Phase-2:
    PRISM innovators who have demonstrated success or innovators who have proven their concepts with assistance from other government institutions or agencies.

Eligible Sectors for the Scheme

The proposals are encouraged to focus on sectors such as

  • Green Technology
  • Clean Energy
  • Industrial Smart Materials
  • Waste to Wealth
  • Affordable Healthcare
  • Water & Sewage Management
  • Other technology or knowledge-intensive areas.

Application procedure for Startups

  • Submit your project proposal following the prescribed format to the nearest TePP Outreach cum Cluster Innovation Centres (TOCICs). Here’s a list of TOCICs in India.
  • Once received, TOCIC coordinators will review proposals for completeness and forward them further.
  • Domain Knowledge Experts associated with TOCIC will then assess the proposals.
  • Evaluated proposals are forwarded to DSIR for further action and reviewed by the PRISM Advisory and Screening Committee (PASC) for recommendation.
  • Upon Department approval, "Terms & Conditions" must be signed before grants-in-aid release.
  • Initial fund release is based on project milestones and PASC recommendations. Subsequent releases depend on project progress evaluated by the Project Review Committee (PRC).
  • TOCIC and network partners, along with technical experts, will monitor approved projects.
  • TOCIC will provide project status reports to DSIR every 3 months, while PRCs will review project progress at least once every 9 months.
  • Upon successful project completion, the DSIR will accept the project completion report based on PRC recommendation.

Benefits of the PRISM Scheme

The PRISM Scheme includes various phases designed to support innovators in different stages of their project development. Each phase may involve different levels of support, resources, and guidance tailored to the specific needs of innovators.

  • For Phase-1:
    Category 1: Maximum support within this category is capped at INR 2,00,000 or 90% of the approved project cost, whichever is less.
    Category 2: Maximum support is limited to 20.00 lakh or 90% of the total project cost, whichever is lower.
  • For Phase-2:
    For projects with costs ranging from INR 5 Lakhs to INR 35 Lakhs, maximum support of either INR 20 Lakhs or 90% of the total project cost (whichever is lower) is provided.

Please note: If the project beneficiaries abandon the project, innovators must reimburse the funding disbursed, along with a 12% interest rate, to the DSIR.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Register your Private Limited Company in just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

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Register your One Person Company in just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

Register your business
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Register your Business starting at just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

Register your business
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Register your Limited Liability Partnership in just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

Register your business

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


Limited Liability Partnership
(LLP)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Professional services 
  • Firms seeking any capital contribution from Partners
  • Firms sharing resources with limited liability 

One Person Company
(OPC)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Freelancers, Small-scale businesses
  • Businesses looking for minimal compliance
  • Businesses looking for single-ownership

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


One Person Company
(OPC)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Freelancers, Small-scale businesses
  • Businesses looking for minimal compliance
  • Businesses looking for single-ownership

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


Limited Liability Partnership
(LLP)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Professional services 
  • Firms seeking any capital contribution from Partners
  • Firms sharing resources with limited liability 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the objective of the PRISM Scheme?

The PRISM Scheme aims to encourage innovation, research, and development activities among individuals, startups, and MSMEs by providing financial support and fostering a conducive ecosystem for growth and experimentation.

Can individuals or only organizations apply for the PRISM Scheme?

Both individuals and organizations, including startups and MSMEs, are eligible to apply for the PRISM Scheme as long as they meet the eligibility criteria outlined by the scheme.

Are there any specific criteria for project selection under the PRISM Scheme?

Projects are selected based on criteria such as innovation quotient, technical feasibility, market potential, scalability, and socio-economic impact.

Do projects funded under the PRISM Scheme get evaluated later?

Projects funded under the PRISM Scheme are subject to regular monitoring and evaluation to ensure compliance with project milestones, utilization of funds, and achievement of desired outcomes.

One-Person Company (OPC) Registration Process: Step-by-Step Guide

One-Person Company (OPC) Registration Process: Step-by-Step Guide

In the dynamic world of entrepreneurship, One-Person Companies (OPCs) have emerged as a game-changing business structure for solo entrepreneurs. These entities offer limited liability protection and the simplicity of a sole proprietorship. It empowers individuals to have a business without the complexity of managing multiple partners.

Table of Contents

Overview of One-Person Company Registration

A One-Person Company (OPC) is a business entity that allows a single individual to establish a company with limited liability. Unlike traditional business structures, OPCs provide entrepreneurs with a legal framework that protects personal assets while offering the flexibility of single ownership. This model bridges the gap between sole proprietorship and traditional multi-member companies.

Eligibility Criteria for the Incorporation of One-Person Company

To register an OPC in India an individual must be an Indian resident and can be both the director and shareholder. The company requires a minimum authorised share capital of ₹1 lakh, and the proposed company name must be unique. Also, the individual can be a member of only one OPC and they should not have any criminal record.

One-Person Company Registration Steps

OPC registration process has following steps:

Step 1: Initial Preparation

Obtain a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) and Director Identification Number (DIN) using the MCA portal. Select a unique company name that complies with Companies (Incorporation Rules) 2014.

Step 2: Nominee Appointment

Identify and secure consent from a nominee who can become a director in case of the original promoter's incapacitation. Ensure the nominee meets legal and professional eligibility criteria.

Step 3: OPC Documentation

Compile essential documents including proof of registered office, director identification, address proof, and business plan. Maintain the mandatory minimum authorized capital of ₹1 lakh.

Step 4: Online Registration

Complete registration through the MCA portal by uploading the required documents, verifying DIN, and submitting all necessary forms.

Step 5: Certificate and Compliance

Receive the Certificate of Incorporation within 3-5 days after verification. Subsequently, maintain ongoing regulatory compliance like annual filings and adherence to OPC-specific requirements.

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Documents Required for One-Person Company Registration

  • Identity proof (PAN card, Aadhaar card)
  • Residence proof (utility bills, bank statements)
  • Proof of registered office (rent agreement or ownership documents)
  • Nominee consent documents
  • Digital Signature Certificate

Timelines for OPC registration

You can obtain their Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) and Director Identification Number (DIN) within one day. The Certificate of Incorporation typically takes between 3 to 5 days to process. From start to finish, the entire incorporation process can be completed in approximately 10 days.

Post-Incorporation Formalities for OPC

After registering an OPC company, you must complete several key steps as highlighted below:

  • Open a dedicated company bank account and deposit share capital within 60 days.
  • Issue share certificates to shareholders within two months as proof of ownership.
  • Register for GST if goods or service supply exceeds thresholds.
  • Maintain statutory registers to document company activities.
  • Prepare for annual tax return filing and ensure ongoing regulatory compliance.

Features of One-Person Company (OPC)

  1. Single Ownership: Allows a single individual to form a company, providing complete control and ownership under Section 3(1)(c) of the Companies Act.
  2. Innovative Nominee System: Requires a nominee who can take over company ownership in case of the original member's death or incapacitation, ensuring business continuity.
  3. Flexible Management: Permits 1-15 directors, with minimal administrative complexity and no minimum paid-up capital requirement.
  4. Limited Liability Protection: Separates personal assets from business risks, offering entrepreneurs crucial financial security.
  5. Simplified Compliance: Provides a streamlined approach to business registration and management, making corporate structure accessible to individual entrepreneurs.

Advantages of One-Person Company Registration

  • One of the biggest advantages of an OPC company is that the OPC structure provides a separate legal entity status that helps protect the individual's personal assets from business liabilities.
  • This model enables easier fundraising opportunities, as banks and financial institutions typically prefer lending to registered companies over sole proprietorships.
  • OPCs also provide a clear path for business continuity through the mandatory nominee appointment, ensuring the potential for perpetual succession.
  • The simplified management structure allows for quick decision-making.

Disadvantages of OPC

While One-Person Companies present numerous benefits, they also come with certain limitations that you should carefully consider:

  • The OPC structure is primarily suitable for small business operations, with strict restrictions on expanding ownership or raising additional capital.
  • There are notable limitations on business activities, particularly prohibiting non-banking financial investment activities.
  • The close alignment between ownership and management can create potential challenges, as the sole member may have unchecked control over business decisions.
  • As the business grows, the OPC model may become restrictive, potentially requiring a transition to a more complex business structure.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Register your Business at just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

Register your business
rize image

Register your Private Limited Company in just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

Register your business
rize image

Register your One Person Company in just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

Register your business
rize image

Register your Business starting at just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

Register your business
rize image

Register your Limited Liability Partnership in just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

Register your business

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


Limited Liability Partnership
(LLP)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Professional services 
  • Firms seeking any capital contribution from Partners
  • Firms sharing resources with limited liability 

One Person Company
(OPC)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Freelancers, Small-scale businesses
  • Businesses looking for minimal compliance
  • Businesses looking for single-ownership

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


One Person Company
(OPC)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Freelancers, Small-scale businesses
  • Businesses looking for minimal compliance
  • Businesses looking for single-ownership

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


Limited Liability Partnership
(LLP)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Professional services 
  • Firms seeking any capital contribution from Partners
  • Firms sharing resources with limited liability 

Frequently Asked Questions

How to do OPC registration?

Obtain a Director Identification Number (DIN) and Digital Signature Certificate (DSC). Choose a unique OPC name and get MCA approval. File incorporation documents with the Registrar of Companies (RoC), including MOA, AOA, and proof of address, identity, and ownership. Receive the Certificate of Incorporation upon approval.

What is the minimum capital for a one-person company?

A one-person company (OPC) can be established with an authorised capital of at least ₹1 lakh, but there is no requirement for a minimum paid-up capital.

What is the cost of one person company registration in India?

OPC registration fees start at INR 900 and depend on authorized capital, ranging from nil to ₹2,06,000+.

Is audit compulsory for OPC?

Yes, an audit is compulsory for an OPC.

What documents are required for OPC?

  • Proof of Identity of the sole director (e.g., Aadhaar, PAN)
  • Proof of Address (e.g., utility bill, bank statement)
  • Passport-sized Photograph of the director
  • No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the owner of the registered office
  • DIN and DSC of the director
  • Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA)

What is a necessary step in setting up an OPC?

The most necessary step in setting up an OPC is to choose a suitable name for the company and ensure it complies with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) naming guidelines.

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Smooth onboarding, seamless incorporation and a wonderful community. Thanks to the #razorpayrize team! #rizeincorporation
Dhaval Trivedi
Basanth Verma
shopeg.in
Exciting news! Incorporation of our company, FoxSell, with Razorpay Rize was extremely smooth and straightforward. We highly recommend them. Thank you Razorpay Rize for making it easy to set up our business in India.
@foxsellapp
#razorpayrize #rizeincorporation
Dhaval Trivedi
Prakhar Shrivastava
foxsell.app
We would recommend Razorpay Rize incorporation services to any founder without a second doubt. The process was beyond efficient and show's razorpay founder's commitment and vision to truly help entrepreneur's and early stage startups to get them incorporated with ease. If you wanna get incorporated, pick them. Thanks for the help Razorpay.

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Dhaval Trivedi
TBS Magazine
Hey, Guys!
We just got incorporated yesterday.
Thanks to Rize team for all the Support.
It was a wonderful experience.
CHEERS 🥂
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Dhaval Trivedi
Nayan Mishra
https://zillout.com/
Smooth onboarding, seamless incorporation and a wonderful community. Thanks to the #razorpayrize team! #rizeincorporation
Dhaval Trivedi
Basanth Verma
shopeg.in
Exciting news! Incorporation of our company, FoxSell, with Razorpay Rize was extremely smooth and straightforward. We highly recommend them. Thank you Razorpay Rize for making it easy to set up our business in India.
@foxsellapp
#razorpayrize #rizeincorporation
Dhaval Trivedi
Prakhar Shrivastava
foxsell.app
We would recommend Razorpay Rize incorporation services to any founder without a second doubt. The process was beyond efficient and show's razorpay founder's commitment and vision to truly help entrepreneur's and early stage startups to get them incorporated with ease. If you wanna get incorporated, pick them. Thanks for the help Razorpay.

#entrepreneur #tbsmagazine #rize #razorpay #feedback
Dhaval Trivedi
TBS Magazine
Hey, Guys!
We just got incorporated yesterday.
Thanks to Rize team for all the Support.
It was a wonderful experience.
CHEERS 🥂
#entrepreneur #tbsmagazine #rize #razorpay #feedback
Dhaval Trivedi
Nayan Mishra
https://zillout.com/