If you’re starting a business in India, the best way to go about it is to register it. Registration gives your business a legal and legitimate identity and is important for multiple reasons such as obtaining legal permissions, protecting your intellectual property, applying for loans and credits, thereby increasing the credibility of your business.
Here are some of the important registration options for startups in India:
1) Private Limited Company: This is the most popular form of business registration in India, as it gives corporate status to your company, puts a check on ownership and makes it easier to raise capital. It also reduces the liability of its promoters to an extent and allows the company to easily transfer its shares. A private limited company can be registered through IndiaFilings with a minimum of two directors and two shareholders.
2) Limited Liability Partnership (LLP): LLP is a good option for businesses that need both limited liability protection and operational flexibility. It is formed by registering a document known as LLP Agreement with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. It also requires two designated partners, who will be responsible for any kind of legal matters.
3) One Person Company (OPC): OPC is basically suitable for a single person business where a single person can incorporate a private limited company and enjoy the benefits of limited liability and corporate status.
4) Proprietorship: This is the simplest form of business registration, although it does not give any corporate status or limited liability protection to the business. It is formed by filing an application to the Registrar of Firms and is suitable for businesses that have low levels of investment.
5) Partnership Firm: A Partnership firm can be registered by filing an application along with the Partnership Deed in the court. It is suitable for businesses that require two or more people to handle the operations.
Before registering, you should consider the nature of business and decide which registration option will work best for you. You can also consult a company incorporation service provider like IndiaFilings who can assist you with the registration process.