8 Company Registration Process explained: this guide covers what it means, who it applies to, the step-by-step process, documents required, fees, due dates and penalties in India — so you can stay compliant with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.
This step-by-step guide walks you through the complete Section 8 Company Registration process — from eligibility to receiving your certificate — the way our team does it every day.
Who needs Section 8 Company Registration
- Not-for-profit organisations promoting charity, education, art, science, sports or social welfare
- Founders wanting a corporate NGO structure with limited liability and credibility
- Entities intending to apply the profits solely towards their objects (no dividend)
Section 8 Company Registration process — step by step
- Obtain DSC & DIN — Get digital signatures and director identification numbers for directors.
- Reserve the name — Apply for name reservation via SPICe+ Part A/RUN.
- Apply for Section 8 licence — File Form INC-12 with MOA (INC-13), projected financials and declarations.
- File incorporation (SPICe+) — Once the licence is granted, file SPICe+ with MOA/AOA and PAN/TAN.
- RoC review — The RoC verifies the objects and documents.
- Certificate of Incorporation — The company is incorporated with a Section 8 licence and CIN.
Documents you'll need
- DSC and DIN of the proposed directors
- PAN and ID/address proof of directors and members
- Registered-office proof (utility bill + rent agreement/NOC)
- Memorandum (INC-13) and Articles of Association
- Estimated statement of income & expenditure for 3 years
- Declaration in Form INC-14/INC-15
Timeline and validity
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Processing time | Typically 15–30 days including the Section 8 licence (Form INC-12) and incorporation. |
| Validity | Incorporation is perpetual; the Section 8 licence continues unless revoked for breach of conditions. |
| Government fee | Government cost is mainly the MCA/RoC and DSC charges plus stamp duty — commonly ₹6,000 to ₹12,000; the Section 8 licence application itself has a nominal fee. |
| Issuing authority | Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) / Registrar of Companies (RoC) |
Common mistakes to avoid
- Choosing the wrong category or sub-clause on the application form.
- Uploading an address proof that doesn't match the premises declared.
- Skipping Aadhaar/OTP e-verification, which slows approval and can trigger physical inspection.
- Letting the registration lapse — track the validity/renewal date from day one.
After you get Section 8 Company Registration — next steps
Once approved, download and safely store your certificate, display the registration number where the law requires it, and note the renewal date. Keep your books and filings consistent with the details declared during registration — most cancellations happen because ongoing compliance drifts away from what was originally stated.
Related guides on Section 8 Company Registration
- How to Get Section 8 Company Registration (Complete Guide)
- Documents Required for Section 8 Company Registration
- Section 8 Company Registration Eligibility Criteria
- Section 8 Company Registration Fees & Government Charges
- Benefits of Section 8 Company Registration
- Section 8 Company Registration Renewal: Process and Validity
- How to Cancel or Surrender Section 8 Company Registration
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Talk to an expert →Frequently Asked Questions
What is the first step to get Section 8 Company Registration?
Obtain DSC & DIN — Get digital signatures and director identification numbers for directors.
How many steps are there in the Section 8 Company Registration process?
There are 6 main steps, from obtain DSC & DIN to receiving the certificate.
How long does the Section 8 Company Registration process take?
Typically 15–30 days including the Section 8 licence (Form INC-12) and incorporation.
Can I apply for Section 8 Company Registration online?
Yes. Section 8 Company Registration is applied for online through the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) / Registrar of Companies (RoC); physical visits are rarely needed.
How long is Section 8 Company Registration valid?
Incorporation is perpetual; the Section 8 licence continues unless revoked for breach of conditions.