One Person Company (OPC) Registration in India
A One Person Company (OPC) is an ideal business structure for individual entrepreneurs in India who seek the benefits of a registered company while enjoying the simplicity of a single-owner entity. An OPC allows a single individual to form and operate a business with the advantage of limited liability protection, which shields personal assets from business liabilities. This structure is particularly suited for small businesses and startups, combining the simplicity of a sole proprietorship with the liability protection of a private limited company.
The OPC registration process is straightforward but involves specific steps to comply with Indian legal standards. First, you need to choose a unique business name and submit it for approval through the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) portal via the SPICe (Simplified Proforma for Incorporating Company Electronically) form. This is followed by preparing and submitting the essential company documents—namely, the Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA)—which define the company’s objectives and operational guidelines as required by the Companies Act, 2013.
Next, you’ll need to provide proof of your registered office address and supporting identity documents. Once these documents are submitted and approved by the Registrar of Companies (RoC), the company receives a Certificate of Incorporation, establishing it as an officially registered entity. OPCs enjoy lighter compliance requirements compared to other business structures, such as private or public limited companies, which translates to easier management and reduced regulatory demands.
This structure is perfect for entrepreneurs who seek full control over their business decisions while benefiting from the formal status of a registered company. With our expert OPC registration service, you will receive guidance at every step to ensure a smooth, compliant, and efficient setup process, allowing you to focus on confidently growing your business.
One Person Company in Company Law
Section 2(62) of Companies Act defines a one-person company as a company that has only one person as its member. Furthermore, members of a company are nothing but subscribers to its memorandum of association, or its shareholders. So, an OPC is effectively a company that has only one shareholder as its member.
Features of a One Person Company
A one-person company (OPC) allows a single entrepreneur to operate a corporate entity with limited liability protection, ensuring personal assets are safeguarded. It simplifies compliance and administrative requirements, making it easier for solo entrepreneurs to manage their businesses. Here is a list of the features of a one-person company
- Single Ownership: An OPC is formed by a single person, who is both the shareholder and director.
- Limited Liability: The liability of the member is limited to their shares, protecting personal assets.
- Perpetual Succession: An OPC can continue its existence even after the death or incapacity of the owner, through the nomination of another person.
- Separate Legal Entity: An OPC is a distinct legal entity from its owner, allowing it to own property, sue, and be sued in its own name.
- Minimum Compliance: OPCs have fewer compliance requirements compared to other types of companies, making them easier to manage.
Privileges of One-Person Companies
Registering as a one person company provides many added advantages and functioning ease. Here are some privileges of an one person company
- Simplified Annual Returns Filings: OPCs are required to file fewer documents with the Registrar of Companies.
- Exemptions from Holding Annual General Meetings (AGMs): OPCs are not required to hold AGMs, simplifying their operational processes.
- Access to Loans: Banks and financial institutions are more likely to offer loans to OPCs due to their formal structure and limited liability.
Legal Status and Ownership Structure
A One Person Company enjoys a unique legal status, distinguishing it from sole proprietorships. The ownership structure of an OPC allows for a single individual to control the entire company but with the added benefit of having a nominated successor. This ensures continuity and stability for the business, even in unforeseen circumstances.
Advantages of a One Person Company
A One Person Company (OPC) offers limited liability protection, ensuring the owner’s personal assets are not at risk. It also provides a separate legal identity, enhancing the credibility and continuity of the business. Here are the advantages of one person company
Business Operation Benefits
- Full Control: As the sole owner and director, the individual has complete control over the company’s operations and decisions.
- Ease of Management: With fewer regulatory requirements, OPCs are simpler to manage compared to other company structures.
- Flexibility: OPCs can easily convert to other types of companies as the business grows, providing flexibility for future expansion.
Legal and Compliance Advantages
- Limited Liability Protection: The owner’s personal assets are protected, as their liability is limited to the capital invested in the company.
- Separate Legal Entity: OPCs have a distinct legal identity and a simple business structure enabling them to enter into contracts, own property, and initiate legal proceedings in their own name.
- Fewer Compliance Requirements: OPCs are exempt from several compliance obligations that apply to other company forms, such as holding annual general meetings, having fixed minimum capital requirements and is best suitable for small business.
Funding and Succession Planning
- Increased Credibility: Being a registered company, OPCs often find it easier to secure funding from banks and financial institutions.
- Succession Planning: The nominee director ensures business continuity in case of the owner’s death or incapacity, providing a clear succession plan.
One Person Company Registration Requirements
For One Person Company (OPC) registration a single individual is required as the sole shareholder and director, with a nominee appointed in case of the shareholder’s incapacity. Here are some One Person Company Registration Requirements.
Eligibility Criteria for OPC Registration in India
Eligibility criteria for OPC registration in India is pointed out below:
- Single Shareholder: Only a natural person, who must be an Indian citizen and resident, can incorporate an OPC.
- Nominee Director: The sole shareholder must nominate a person who will take over in case of their death or incapacity.
- Not a Minor: The individual incorporating the OPC cannot be a minor.
- Capital Requirement: The minimum authorised capital for incorporating OPC is ₹1 lakh but there is no minimum paid-up capital requirement.
Roles of Directors and Shareholders
- Sole Director: a sole member can also act as the sole director of the company.
- Nominee Director: The nominee director steps in if the sole shareholder is unable to continue due to death or incapacity.
- Director’s Duties: Directors must comply with statutory duties and obligations as outlined in the Companies Act of 2013.
OPC Registration Documents Required
Here is the list of documents required for OPC registration in India:
- Director’s PAN Card: Copy of the PAN card of the sole shareholder and nominee director.
- Identity Proof: Aadhar card, Driving License, voter ID, or passport of the sole shareholder and nominee director.
- Address Proof: Latest utility bills, such as water or electricity bill, Mobile Bill or bank statements of the sole shareholder and nominee director.
- Registered Office Address Proof: Rent agreement and a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the property owner, or utility bills if the property is owned.
- Passport-Size Photographs: Recent passport-sized photographs of the sole shareholder and nominee director.
- Memorandum of Association (MOA): A document outlining the company’s objectives and business activities.
- Articles of Association (AOA): A document detailing the rules and regulations governing the company’s internal management.
Taxmaan OPC Registration Process
Taxmaan provides a streamlined process for registering a One Person Company (OPC) in India.
Step 1: Consultation
- Initial consultation to understand the business requirements, government fees and eligibility criteria for OPC registration
Step 2: Documentation
- Assistance in gathering and preparing all necessary documents, including identity proof, Aadhaar Card, address proof, No Objection Certificate and registered office proof like utility bill
Step 3: DIN and DSC Application
- Filing for Director Identification Number (DIN) and Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) for the sole shareholder.
Step 4: Name Approval
- Our team will help you register a unique name for your company. We will check for name availability and submit the proposed company name for name reservation through the Ministry of Corporate Affairs MCA portal.
Step 5: MOA and AOA Drafting
- Drafting the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA) in compliance with legal standards.
Step 6: Filing Forms
- Filing the required forms (INC-32, INC-33, and INC-34) with the Registrar of Companies (ROC).
Step 7: Incorporation Certificate
- Receiving the Certificate of Incorporation from the ROC, signifying OPC company incorporation .
Step 8: PAN and TAN Application
- Assistance in applying for the company’s PAN and TAN.
Step 9: Post-Incorporation Support
- Guidance on post-incorporation compliance, trademark registration, professional tax, income tax returns, Company secretary appointment and other legal requirements
- Taxmaan offers a fantastic opportunity for entrepreneurs to connect with angel investors adventure capital investments. Connect with us today!
One Person Company (OPC) Compliance
A One Person Company (OPC) must comply with annual filing requirements. Here is a list of One Person Company compliance :
Government Regulations Affecting OPCs: OPCs must adhere to several government regulations to maintain their legal status and operate smoothly. These regulations include annual filings, tax compliance, and adherence to corporate governance norms as outlined by the Companies Act of 2013.
Importance of Annual Compliances of One Person Company
- Legal Standing: Ensuring compliance maintains the legal standing of the OPC and avoids penalties.
- Business Credibility: Regular compliance enhances the company’s credibility with stakeholders, including customers, investors, and financial institutions.
- Operational Efficiency: Staying compliant helps in smooth business operations and avoids disruptions due to legal issues.
Benefits of One-Person Company Compliances
- Avoid Penalties: Timely compliance prevents fines and penalties imposed by regulatory authorities.
- Enhanced Reputation: A compliant company is perceived as reliable and trustworthy by clients and partners.
- Access to Funding: Compliance increases the chances of securing loans and investments from financial institutions and investors.
Mandatory Annual Compliances of One-Person Company
- Annual Return (Form MGT-7): Filing the annual return within 60 days from the date of the Annual General Meeting (AGM).
- Financial Statements (Form AOC-4): Filing the financial statements, including the balance sheet and profit and loss account, within 180 days from the end of the financial year.
- Income Tax Return: Filing the company’s income tax return by 30th September of the assessment year.
- Statutory Audit: Conducting an audit of financial statements by a Chartered Accountant.
- Board Meetings: Conducting at least one board meeting every six months.
Legal Implications of Non-Compliance
- Penalties and Fines: Non-compliance can result in hefty fines and penalties imposed by the MCA and other regulatory authorities.
- Legal Actions: Persistent non-compliance may lead to legal actions, including the possible dissolution of the company.
- Director Disqualification: The directors of the company may face disqualification from holding directorships in other companies.
Documents Required for the Annual Compliance of One Person Company
- Financial Statements: Balance sheet, profit and loss account, and cash flow statement.
- Audit Report: Report prepared by the statutory auditor.
- Board Meeting Minutes: Records of the minutes of board meetings held during the year.
- Annual Return: Form MGT-7, detailing the company’s annual performance.
- Income Tax Return Acknowledgment: Proof of filing the income tax return.
OPC Compliance Due Date
By following these guidelines and maintaining compliance, one-person companies can ensure smooth operations and avoid legal complications.
| Compliance Requirement | Form | Due Date | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Return (Form MGT-7): Within 60 days from the date of the AGM. | Annual Return | Form MGT-7 | Within 60 days from the date of the AGM |
| Financial Statements (Form AOC-4): Within 180 days from the end of the financial year. | Financial Statements | Form AOC-4 | Within 180 days from the end of the financial year |
| Income Tax Return: By 30th September of the assessment year. | Income Tax Return | – | By 30th September of the assessment year |
Taxability of OPCs in India
One-person companies (OPCs) in India are subject to various tax obligations similar to other corporate entities. However, they also enjoy certain benefits
- Corporate Tax: OPCs are required to pay corporate tax on their profits. The tax rate for OPCs is in line with the rates applicable to other private limited companies.
- Tax Deductions: OPCs can avail of various deductions under the Income Tax Act, such as depreciation on assets, business expenditures, and specific allowances.
- Dividend Distribution Tax (DDT): OPCs must pay DDT on any dividends distributed to shareholders.
- Goods and Services Tax (GST): If the annual turnover exceeds ₹20 lakhs, OPCs must register for GST and comply with GST filing requirements
Specific Tax Provisions Applicable to OPCs
- Income Tax Rates: OPCs are taxed at a flat rate of 22% plus applicable surcharge and cess for domestic companies not claiming any exemptions or incentives. For those claiming exemptions, the rate is 30%.
- MAT (Minimum Alternate Tax): OPCs are subject to MAT, which is levied at 15% of the book profits (as per the Income Tax Act), plus surcharge and cess.
- Tax Audit: OPCs must undergo a tax audit if their turnover exceeds ₹1 crore (for businesses) or ₹50 lakhs (for professionals).
How Taxmaan Helps in Simplifying the One-Person Company Registration Process?
Taxmaan offers comprehensive services to simplify the OPC registration process, ensuring a hassle-free experience for entrepreneurs:
- Expert Consultation: We provide professional consultation to help understand the specific requirements and benefits of registering an OPC.
- Documentation Assistance: We assist in the preparation and collection of all necessary documents, ensuring compliance with legal standards.
- DIN and DSC Application: We help in obtaining the Director Identification Number (DIN) and Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) required for the registration process.
- Name Approval: They manage the entire process of name approval with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), ensuring that the proposed name meets all legal criteria.
- MOA and AOA Drafting: Taxmaan drafts the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA), tailoring them to the specific needs of the business.
- Filing with ROC: We handle the filing of required forms (INC-32, INC-33, and INC-34) with the Registrar of Companies (ROC), ensuring all legal requirements are met.
- Incorporation Certificate: Taxmaan assists in obtaining the Certificate of Incorporation, signifying the official formation of the OPC.
- PAN and TAN Application: We facilitate the application for the company’s Permanent Account Number (PAN) and Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number (TAN).
- Post-Incorporation Support: Taxmaan offers ongoing support for post-incorporation compliance, helping businesses maintain their legal standing and operational efficiency.

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