Are you looking to set up a non-profit organization in India? Whether your goal is to promote education, environmental awareness, health initiatives, or cultural development, registering as a Section 8 Company is one of the most trusted and recognized legal structures available.

This guide will walk you through the essentials—from what a Section 8 Company is, to who can apply, what documents you’ll need, and how to complete the registration process step by step.

What is a Section 8 Company?

A Section 8 Company is a non-profit entity formed under the Companies Act, 2013. Its purpose is to support social, charitable, or public welfare objectives like education, science, environmental protection, arts, or religion.

These companies differ from regular businesses because they cannot distribute profits. All earnings must be used solely to advance the organization’s stated purpose.

Key Benefits of a Section 8 Company

Starting a Section 8 Company offers multiple advantages:

1. Tax Benefits: Eligible for tax exemptions under Sections 12A and 80G, making donations more attractive to supporters.
2. No Capital Requirement: No minimum capital is needed to start.
3. Legal Recognition: Operates as a separate legal entity, helping build trust with donors and stakeholders.
4. Limited Liability: Members and directors are not personally responsible for the company’s debts.
5. Funding Opportunities: Eligible for grants, CSR funds, and public donations.

Who Can Register a Section 8 Company?

To qualify, you’ll need to meet the following criteria:

• At least two directors and two shareholders
• One director must be a resident of India
• A registered office address located in India
• A well-defined non-profit mission or objective

Required Documents

Here’s a checklist of what you’ll need for a smooth application:

• PAN and Aadhaar card copies for all directors and shareholders
• Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
• Director Identification Number (DIN)
• Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA)
• Proof of business address (utility bill, rent agreement, etc.)
• Signed declarations (INC-14 and INC-15)

Step-by-Step Registration Process

Step 1: Get a Digital Signature (DSC)

All directors need a digital signature to file documents electronically on the MCA portal.

Step 2: Apply for DIN (Director Identification Number)

Each director must have a DIN, which is applied for via the MCA website.

Step 3: Reserve Your Company Name

Submit your preferred name through the RUN (Reserve Unique Name) service, ensuring it aligns with your organization’s mission.

Step 4: Fill and Submit the SPICe+ Form

This is an integrated form used for incorporation. It includes applications for PAN, TAN, MoA, AoA, and more.

Step 5: Get Your Incorporation Certificate

Once approvedyou’ll receive a Certificate of Incorporation along with a Corporate Identification Number (CIN).
Are you looking to set up a non-profit organization in India? Whether your goal is to promote education, environmental awareness, health initiatives, or cultural development, registering as a Section 8 Company is one of the most trusted and recognized legal structures available.

This guide will walk you through the essentials—from what a Section 8 Company is, to who can apply, what documents you’ll need, and how to complete the registration process step by step.
What is a Section 8 Company?

A Section 8 Company is a non-profit entity formed under the Companies Act, 2013. Its purpose is to support social, charitable, or public welfare objectives like education, science, environmental protection, arts, or religion.

These companies differ from regular businesses because they cannot distribute profits. All earnings must be used solely to advance the organization’s stated purpose.
Key Benefits of a Section 8 Company

Starting a Section 8 Company offers multiple advantages:

• Tax Benefits: Eligible for tax exemptions under Sections 12A and 80G, making donations more attractive to supporters.
• No Capital Requirement: No minimum capital is needed to start.
• Legal Recognition: Operates as a separate legal entity, helping build trust with donors and stakeholders.
• Limited Liability: Members and directors are not personally responsible for the company’s debts.
• Funding Opportunities: Eligible for grants, CSR funds, and public donations.

Who Can Register a Section 8 Company?

To qualify, you’ll need to meet the following criteria:

1. At least two directors and two shareholders
2. One director must be a resident of India
3. A registered office address located in India
4. A well-defined non-profit mission or objectiv

Required Documents

Here’s a checklist of what you’ll need for a smooth application:

• PAN and Aadhaar card copies for all directors and shareholders
• Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
• Director Identification Number (DIN)
• Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA)
• Proof of business address (utility bill, rent agreement, etc.)
• Signed declarations (INC-14 and INC-15)

Step-by-Step Registration Process

Step 1: Get a Digital Signature (DSC)

All directors need a digital signature to file documents electronically on the MCA portal.

Step 2: Apply for DIN (Director Identification Number)

Each director must have a DIN, which is applied for via the MCA website.

Step 3: Reserve Your Company Name

Submit your preferred name through the RUN (Reserve Unique Name) service, ensuring it aligns with your organization’s mission.

Step 4: Fill and Submit the SPICe+ Form

This is an integrated form used for incorporation. It includes applications for PAN, TAN, MoA, AoA, and more.

Step 5: Get Your Incorporation Certificate

Once approved, you’ll receive a Certificate of Incorporation along with a Corporate Identification Number (CIN).

How to Track Your Application

Go to the MCA Portal and search using your company name or CIN. From there, you can check the status and download official documents.

FAQs

Q1: Can I register online?
Yes, the entire process is conducted through the MCA’s online platform.

Q2: Can Section 8 Companies accept donations?
Yes. Once registered under 12A and 80G, donations are legal and tax-deductible for donors.

Q3: Is an Indian office address required?
Yes, a physical address in India is mandatory at the time of registration.

Q4: How many people are needed to form the company?

At least two directors and two shareholders.

Final Thoughts

Starting a Section 8 Company is the most efficient and legally secure way to build a non-profit in India. It gives your organization a formal identity, protects your mission, and enables long-term growth through funding and public trust.

If your vision includes meaningful social impact, this is the right foundation to build on.