Public Limited Company Registration in India – Benefits, Process & Cost
India's booming economy, investor-friendly policies, and strong corporate framework make it an attractive hub for entrepreneurs aiming to scale big. If you're looking to build a business with public investment, enhanced credibility, and long-term growth, a Public Limited Company (PLC) is the right choice.
A Public Limited Company is a company that is legally allowed to offer shares to the general public. It requires a minimum of 7 shareholders and 3 directors. It is registered under the Companies Act, 2013, and is subject to more stringent regulatory compliance than a Private Limited Company. A PLC has a separate legal identity from its shareholders and directors and offers limited liability protection.
This type of company is best suited for large businesses or companies planning to raise capital through Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) or venture capital investment.
Key Advantages of Registering a Public Limited Company
1. Access to Large Capital
Public companies can raise funds from the general public through public offerings. This makes it easier to fund expansion, operations, and acquisitions.
2. Limited Liability for Shareholders
The personal assets of shareholders are protected. Liability is limited only to the unpaid value of shares held.
3. Enhanced Credibility and Public Trust
As a public entity, the company enjoys higher credibility among customers, vendors, and investors. Regular audits, disclosures, and corporate governance requirements increase transparency.
4. Transferability of Shares
Shares of a Public Limited Company can be easily traded on stock exchanges or transferred between individuals, making it more flexible and attractive for investors.
5. Global Reach and Brand Recognition
Being publicly registered improves the company’s reputation, which is useful when entering foreign markets or attracting overseas investors.
What Documents Are Required?
To register a Public Limited Company in India, you will need the following documents:
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PAN card and identity proof (Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID) of all directors and shareholders
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Address proof (bank statement, electricity bill, etc.) of all directors and shareholders
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Passport-size photographs of all directors
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Digital Signature Certificates (DSC) for all directors
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Director Identification Numbers (DIN)
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Proof of registered office address (electricity bill, rent agreement, or NOC from the owner)
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Drafted Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA)
Step-by-Step Registration Process
Step 1: Apply for Digital Signature (DSC)
The first step is to obtain a digital signature for all proposed directors, which is used for signing the electronic documents.
Step 2: Obtain Director Identification Number (DIN)
All directors must apply for DIN, which is a unique identification number issued by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).
Step 3: Name Reservation
You must file the SPICe+ Part A form to reserve a unique company name with the MCA. You can propose two names and justify their relevance.
Step 4: File Incorporation Documents
Once the name is approved, file SPICe+ Part B, along with the MoA, AoA, and other incorporation forms like AGILE-PRO (for GST, EPFO, ESIC registration), eMoA, and eAoA.
Step 5: Get Certificate of Incorporation (COI)
Once the Registrar of Companies (ROC) verifies your application, you will receive the COI, which acts as the legal birth certificate of your company.
Step 6: Apply for PAN, TAN, and Open Bank Account
You will receive your company's PAN and TAN after registration. Use these documents along with the COI to open a current account in your company’s name.
Step 7: Post-Incorporation Compliance
Declare business commencement via Form INC-20A, appoint your first statutory auditor, hold your first board meeting, and allot shares within 60 days.
Estimated Cost of Registration
The cost to register a Public Limited Company in India depends on several factors such as the number of directors, professional service charges, stamp duty applicable in your state, and any additional services like GST or trademark registration. Typically, the overall cost ranges between INR 20,000 to INR 40,000 or more.
This includes charges for digital signatures, DIN application, name approval, MCA filing fees, professional charges for document drafting, and post-incorporation compliance support.
Mandatory Compliances After Registration
Once your company is registered, you must adhere to several regulatory compliances to stay active and avoid penalties:
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File Form INC-20A to declare commencement of business within 180 days of incorporation
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Hold at least four board meetings every financial year
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Appoint a statutory auditor within 30 days
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Maintain proper books of accounts and statutory registers
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Conduct Annual General Meeting (AGM) every year
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File annual returns in Form MGT-7 and financial statements in Form AOC-4
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Ensure timely income tax return filings and TDS compliances
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Ensure ROC compliance and filings as required under the Companies Act
Why Choose YKG Global?
At YKG Global, we understand how complex and time-consuming it can be to register and maintain a Public Limited Company. With over four decades of experience and thousands of clients served globally, we simplify the entire process for you.
We provide:
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Free consultation on the best company structure
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Expert support in drafting MoA and AoA
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Fast name reservation and ROC filing
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Assistance with PAN, TAN, GST, and post-incorporation registrations
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Ongoing legal and compliance support to keep your business running smoothly
Whether you’re a startup, NRI, or foreign investor, YKG Global is your trusted partner for legal, financial, and business advisory needs.
Ready to Launch Your Public Limited Company?
Get started with expert guidance from YKG Global today.
📧 Email: Rajdeep.sharma@ykgglobal.com
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