Introduction

For solo entrepreneurs, learning about the business structure options available makes it easier to start a business in India. Registration as an OPC provides the same benefits as a private limited company which allows for exclusive control. If you are a freelancer, solo professional, or a startup founder looking for limited liability and a more structured business, an OPC could be the answer for you.

This blog by Lawfinity will help you understand OPC Registration in India with a complete overview on what it is, the benefits, required documents, OPC process with compliance needs, and how Lawfinity will assist you with these.

WHAT IS ONE PERSON COMPANY

A One Person Company India is a type of company introduced under the Companies Act, 2013. One individual may form a legal entity with limited liability under the One Person Company structure and it has a separate legal identity. One Person Company India enables a sole proprietor to enjoy the legal shield of a corporate structure.

The person becomes the only member and also the director of the company. To provide for business continuity, a nominee is appointed who takes over the business in the event of the owner’s death or incapacity. Unlike a proprietorship, liability is limited and the business is a separate legal person.

With respect to OPC Registration in India, recent changes have removed several restrictions, including the mandatory conversion thresholds, which makes it more flexible for entrepreneurs.

ELIGIBILITY & BENEFITS

Who Can Register an OPC?

OPC Registration in India is granted when the following is true:

Only a natural person (not a company or firm) can set up an OPC.
The person must be an Indian citizen or a Non Resident Indian (NRI).
The person must have been in India for at least 180 days in the last year.
One nominee must be designated at the time of incorporation.
A single person may not set up or be a nominee in more than one OPC at the same time.

Key Benefits of One Person Company India

The following are the primary benefits of One person company in India.

1. Limited Liability: The owner’s personal assets are safe.

2. Separate Legal Identity: The OPC can own assets, incur debts and enter contracts, all in a separate capacity.

3. Full Control: The owner enjoys 100% control without interference.

4. Improved Credibility: An OPC is more credible than a proprietorship.

5. Continuous Existence: Nominee ensures business continuity.

6. Easier Funding: Companies have better access to loans and grants.

7. No Mandatory Conversion: Recent amendments removed the turnover/capital threshold for forced conversion.

8. Relaxed Compliance: OPCs enjoy fewer compliance burdens than private limited companies.

OPC Registration in India is ideal for professionals, startups, and solo entrepreneurs who want growth without losing autonomy.

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED

To start the OPC Process, you need to prepare the following documents:

1. Identity Proof of Director & Nominee – PAN Card (mandatory), Passport/Voter ID/Driving License.

2. Address Proof of Director & Nominee – Utility bill, Bank statement (not older than 2 months).

3. Photograph – Passport-size photographs of the director and nominee.

4. Proof of Registered Office – Rent agreement, ownership deed, and utility bill.

5. No Objection Certificate – From landlord if office is rented.

6. Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) – Required for filing incorporation forms.

7. Consent of Nominee – Form INC-3, signed by the nominee.

8. Memorandum of Association (MoA) - Explains the goal of the company.

9. Articles of Association (AoA) - Company policies.

Having these documents prepared makes the OPC Registration in India much simpler and faster.

REGISTRATION PROCESS

The OPC Process consists of the following:

Step 1: Obtain DSC: Get a Digital Signature Certificate that allows the proposed director to electronically sign documents.

Step 2: Name Approval: Submit an application on the MCA portal to obtain a registered company name.

Step 3: Submit SPICe+ Form: Complete the SPICe+ form (Parts A & B) and submit the e-MoA and e-AoA then upload the required documents and apply for PAN and TAN at the same time.

Step 4: Issuance of Incorporation Certificate: You will obtain a Certificate of Incorporation indicating the company’s identification number (CIN) after approval.

Step 5: Open a Bank Account & Other Registrations: You can open a current account in the name of the company and apply for other registrations including GST (if applicable).

Step 6: Submit Form INC-20A: You must file a declaration to commence business within the first 180 days after the company is incorporated.

Step 7: Ongoing Compliance: Compliance for the company’s annual filings must be fulfilled e.g. MGT-7A, AOC-4, DIR-3 KYC.

The whole OPC Process usually requires between 7 and 12 working days, contingent on the documents being ready and approved.

HOW LAWFINITY HELPS

At Lawfinity, we offer OPC Registration in India without the stress. This is how we assist you:

1. Eligibility Assessment: We determine whether the OPC fits your business goals and structure.

2. Document Support: Support is provided for the collection, review, and drafting of the MoA, AoA, and consent documents.

3. DSC & Name Reservation: We complete the DSC application and reserve your business name.

4. Filing SPICe+ Forms: We submit your incorporation documents so that there are no rejections or delays.

5. Post-Incorporation Setup: We complete all the steps needed for account opening and GST/MSME registration.

6. Annual Compliance Management: We manage your compliance with the laws, reminders, and filings using our automated systems.

7. Advisory & Legal Support: Our legal professionals assist in future transitions like conversion to private limited or ownership transfer.

Lawfinity provides all the necessary legal and compliance support throughout your journey with One Person Company India all the way to scaling your business.