Company registration in India
Compare a private limited company, an LLP and a proprietorship, and see what each needs, costs and commits you to, before you choose.
Which structure fits
Most new businesses in India choose between a private limited company, a limited liability partnership (LLP) and a sole proprietorship. They differ in legal status, personal liability, who can own them and how much ongoing compliance they carry.
| Private Limited | LLP | Proprietorship | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legal status | Separate legal entity | Separate legal entity | Not separate from the owner |
| Liability | Limited to the shares held | Limited to the agreed contribution, with exceptions such as fraud | Unlimited and personal |
| Minimum people | 2 directors and 2 shareholders, one director resident in India | 2 designated partners who are individuals, one resident in India | 1 owner |
| Law | Companies Act, 2013 | Limited Liability Partnership Act, 2008 | No separate incorporation law |
| How it starts | SPICe+ filing on the MCA portal | FiLLiP filing on the MCA portal, then the LLP agreement | No incorporation filing. Other registrations as the business needs them |
| Equity investment | The usual structure for it | No shares, so not suited to share-based funding | Not possible |
| Ongoing compliance | Highest | Moderate | Lowest |
How to decide
- Planning to raise money from investors, or give employees shares: a private limited company is the usual route.
- A professional practice or a small firm with a few partners and no plan for equity funding: an LLP is often considered.
- One person starting small and testing an idea: a proprietorship is the simplest, but you carry the risk personally.
These are starting points. Tax, funding plans, licences and your own risk appetite all matter, so talk to a qualified professional before you commit.
What you pay
Registration involves government fees, which depend on the authorised capital of a company or the contribution of an LLP, and stamp duty, which varies by state. Professional fees and the cost of digital signature certificates come on top. We do not publish a single price, because the total depends on your structure, capital and state.
Who does the filing
Company and LLP incorporation filings are made online and usually need certification by a practising professional such as a chartered accountant, company secretary or advocate. EasyCorp coordinates the process and works with qualified professionals for the filings that need one. We tell you who does what before you start.
Where to read next
- Private limited company registration
- LLP registration
- Proprietorship: what registration really means
- GST registration and returns
This page is general information, not legal or tax advice. Rules and fees change, so check the current position with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs at mca.gov.in or with a qualified professional. Last reviewed October 2026.