Public Limited Company Registration India
Go Public with Expert Legal Guidance
Scale your business to new heights with a Public Limited Company—India's premier corporate structure for large enterprises, IPO-bound companies, and businesses seeking public investment. Under the Companies Act 2013 and SEBI regulations, a Public Limited Company provides unlimited growth potential, access to public capital markets, enhanced credibility, and the pathway to stock exchange listings. Trusted by India's leading corporations, Lawful Journey ensures seamless incorporation with full regulatory compliance through the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) and Securities Exchange Board of India (SEBI).
Navigate the complex regulatory landscape of public company formation with our specialized expertise in corporate law, SEBI compliance, and stock exchange requirements. From initial incorporation to IPO readiness, our qualified Company Secretaries and capital market experts guide you through every step of building a transparent, governance-driven public enterprise that meets international standards.
- Access to unlimited capital through public share offerings and stock exchange listings
- Enhanced corporate governance and regulatory compliance framework
- International credibility for global business expansion and partnerships
- Professional management structure with independent directors and audit committees
Why Choose Public Limited Company Registration?
A Public Limited Company under the Companies Act 2013 represents the pinnacle of corporate structure in India, offering unparalleled opportunities for capital raising, business expansion, and market recognition. Regulated by MCA and SEBI, public companies enjoy credibility with institutional investors, banks, government agencies, and international partners. With the ability to raise funds from the general public and list on stock exchanges like NSE and BSE, this structure is ideal for large-scale enterprises and businesses planning significant growth.
Unlimited Capital Access
Raise funds from the public through Initial Public Offerings (IPO), Follow-on Public Offerings (FPO), and rights issues. Access to institutional investors, mutual funds, foreign institutional investors (FII), and retail investors provides virtually unlimited growth capital for business expansion and acquisitions.
Stock Exchange Listing
Eligible for listing on premier stock exchanges including NSE, BSE, and regional exchanges. Public listing provides liquidity to shareholders, price discovery mechanism, and enhances company valuation. Compliance with SEBI listing regulations ensures transparency and investor protection.
Enhanced Credibility
Public companies command highest respect from banks, suppliers, customers, and business partners. Mandatory disclosure requirements, independent audits, and regulatory oversight create trust and transparency. Essential for large government contracts, international partnerships, and institutional business relationships.
Professional Governance
Mandatory appointment of independent directors, audit committee, nomination and remuneration committee ensures professional management. Corporate governance norms under Companies Act and SEBI regulations promote transparency, accountability, and shareholder protection.
Business Expansion
Easier mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, and strategic partnerships. Public companies can acquire other companies through share swaps, making expansion more flexible. Better access to debt financing from banks and financial institutions at competitive rates.
Market Recognition
Public listing brings media attention, analyst coverage, and market recognition. Attracts top talent through employee stock option plans (ESOP). Enhances brand value and market positioning as a serious, growth-oriented enterprise with strong financial backing.
Who Should Register a Public Limited Company?
If you are planning to raise significant capital from the public, list on stock exchanges, or build a large-scale enterprise with professional management, a Public Limited Company is the ideal structure. It's perfect for established businesses planning IPOs, family businesses going public, foreign companies entering India, and entrepreneurs with ambitious growth plans requiring substantial funding.
Eligibility Requirements
- Minimum 3 directors (at least one must be Indian resident as per Section 149 of Companies Act)
- Minimum 7 shareholders (no maximum limit, can include general public)
- Minimum paid-up capital ₹5 lakhs (higher capital recommended for credibility)
- Minimum authorized capital ₹5 lakhs (typically much higher for public companies)
- At least 2 independent directors (if paid-up capital >₹10 crores or annual turnover >₹100 crores)
- Company Secretary mandatory (if paid-up capital >₹50 lakhs)
Capital Requirements
Public Limited Companies must have minimum paid-up capital of ₹5 lakhs as per Companies Act 2013. However, for practical purposes and credibility with investors, most public companies start with much higher capital. For IPO eligibility, SEBI requires post-issue paid-up capital of at least ₹10 crores for main board listing and ₹25 crores for institutional placement.
Who Chooses Public Limited?
- IPO-bound companies: Businesses planning public listing within 3-5 years
- Large enterprises: Manufacturing, infrastructure, banking, and financial services
- Family businesses: Transitioning from private to public ownership structure
- Foreign companies: MNCs establishing Indian subsidiaries for market access
- High-growth startups: Unicorns and large startups preparing for public markets
- Investment companies: Mutual funds, NBFCs, and financial institutions
Governance & Compliance
- Board composition: Minimum 3 directors, independent directors mandatory for large companies
- Mandatory committees: Audit committee, nomination & remuneration committee
- Annual compliance: Annual returns, financial statements, board report with enhanced disclosures
- Quarterly filings: Quarterly results, shareholding patterns, corporate governance reports
- SEBI compliance: Insider trading regulations, takeover code, listing agreement obligations
Step-by-Step Public Limited Company Registration Process
Strategic Planning & Structure
Our corporate law experts analyze your business model, growth plans, and funding requirements to design optimal shareholding structure, board composition, and governance framework. We advise on capital structure, promoter holding patterns, and compliance roadmap for future IPO readiness.
Digital Signature & DIN
Obtain Class 2 DSC for all proposed directors and apply for Director Identification Number (DIN) through DIR-3 form. For public companies, we ensure all directors meet fit and proper criteria as per Companies Act and SEBI regulations, including background verification and experience assessment.
Name Availability Check
Reserve unique company name through RUN (Reserve Unique Name) with MCA. We conduct comprehensive name search including trademark conflicts, domain availability, and international presence to ensure your brand is protected across all platforms and jurisdictions.
MOA & AOA Drafting
Prepare comprehensive Memorandum and Articles of Association tailored for public companies with provisions for share classes, board powers, shareholder rights, dividend policy, and governance procedures. Our documents are IPO-ready and comply with SEBI listing requirements.
Board & Shareholder Setup
Identify and appoint qualified directors including independent directors (where applicable), finalize initial shareholding pattern, and prepare board resolutions. We assist in finding experienced independent directors from our network of qualified professionals.
Documentation & Compliance
Compile all required documents including KYC of directors/shareholders, registered office proof, capital contribution evidence, and regulatory clearances. Our compliance team ensures all documents meet public company standards and regulatory requirements.
Incorporation Filing
File incorporation application with MCA through SPICe+ form with enhanced disclosures for public companies. Submit all required forms including INC-7, INC-22, and other applicable forms with proper digital signatures and supporting documents.
Certificate & Registrations
Receive Certificate of Incorporation, Corporate Identity Number (CIN), PAN, and TAN. We also assist with GST registration, professional tax, and other statutory registrations required for commencing business operations.
Post-Incorporation Setup
Complete mandatory post-incorporation compliance including first board meeting, share allotment, appointment of statutory auditors, bank account opening, and implementation of corporate governance framework. We provide ongoing compliance support for all regulatory requirements.
Required Documents for Public Limited Company
Directors Documentation
- PAN Card: Mandatory for all directors as per Income Tax Act requirements
- Identity & Address Proof: Passport/Aadhaar/Voter ID and recent address proof (bank statement/utility bill)
- Passport-size Photograph: Recent colored photograph in digital format for each director
- Educational Qualifications: Degree certificates and professional qualifications (especially for independent directors)
- Experience Certificate: Professional experience letters and resume for board appointments
- Declaration of Non-Disqualification: Statutory declaration under Section 164 of Companies Act 2013
Shareholders Documentation
- Individual Shareholders: PAN card, identity proof, address proof, and bank account details
- Corporate Shareholders: Certificate of incorporation, MOA/AOA, board resolution, and financial statements
- Foreign Shareholders: Passport, visa, overseas address proof, and FEMA compliance documents
- Investment Proof: Bank statements and fund source declarations for capital contribution
- KYC Compliance: Complete KYC documentation as per PMLA and SEBI requirements
- Beneficial Ownership: Ultimate beneficial ownership declarations for transparency
Registered Office & Infrastructure
- Property Documents: Sale deed, lease agreement, or property ownership documents
- Utility Bills: Electricity, water, and telephone bills (not older than 2 months)
- Landlord NOC: No objection certificate from property owner with rent agreement
- Municipal Approvals: Property tax receipt and municipal permission letters
- Office Infrastructure: Photographs of office premises and basic infrastructure proof
- Compliance Setup: Arrangements for maintaining statutory registers and records
Capital & Financial Documents
- Capital Structure: Detailed capital structure with authorized and paid-up capital breakdown
- Share Valuation: Professional valuation report for share pricing and premium
- Banking Arrangements: Bank account opening documents and initial deposit proof
- Auditor Appointment: Statutory auditor appointment letter and professional credentials
- Financial Projections: Business plan and financial projections for initial years
- Compliance Budget: Annual compliance cost estimates and professional service arrangements
Why Choose Lawful Journey?
SEBI & Capital Market Expertise
Our team includes qualified Company Secretaries, chartered accountants, and former SEBI officials with deep expertise in capital market regulations, listing requirements, and corporate governance. We provide comprehensive guidance on IPO readiness, compliance framework, and investor relations from day one.
Regulatory Compliance Excellence
Full compliance with Companies Act 2013, SEBI regulations, FEMA guidelines, and stock exchange requirements. Our proprietary compliance management system tracks all regulatory deadlines, filing requirements, and governance obligations to ensure zero penalties and smooth operations.
Professional Network Access
Access to our extensive network of independent directors, statutory auditors, investment bankers, legal counsels, and corporate governance experts. We help you build a world-class board and advisory structure that adds value to your business and meets regulatory requirements.
IPO Readiness Support
Complete IPO preparation including corporate restructuring, governance framework setup, financial reporting systems, internal controls, and investor presentation. Our capital market experts guide you through the entire journey from incorporation to successful public listing.
International Standards
Corporate governance practices aligned with international standards including NYSE, NASDAQ, and LSE requirements. Perfect for companies planning overseas listings, attracting foreign investors, or establishing global operations with highest corporate governance standards.
Dedicated Relationship Team
Dedicated team of senior Company Secretary, compliance manager, and relationship director for each public company client. Priority support, regular compliance reviews, and strategic advisory services to ensure your company maintains highest standards of corporate governance and regulatory compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Public Limited Companies can raise capital from the general public, have minimum 7 shareholders (vs 2 for private), require minimum ₹5 lakhs paid-up capital, can list on stock exchanges, have higher compliance requirements, and offer shares to public through IPOs. They provide access to unlimited capital but require enhanced governance and transparency standards.
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Minimum authorized and paid-up capital is ₹5 lakhs as per Companies Act 2013. However, for practical business operations and IPO eligibility, most public companies start with much higher capital. SEBI requires minimum ₹10 crores post-issue capital for main board IPO listing.
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Yes, a Private Limited Company can be converted to Public Limited Company through special resolution, alteration of MOA/AOA, and compliance with public company requirements including minimum shareholders, capital, and governance norms. Lawful Journey manages the entire conversion process seamlessly.
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Annual filings include annual return (MGT-7), financial statements, board report, AGM compliance, quarterly board meetings, independent director appointments (if applicable), audit committee meetings, and enhanced disclosure requirements. Listed companies have additional SEBI compliance requirements.
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Typically 15-25 working days depending on name approval, document verification, and regulatory processing. Complex shareholding structures or foreign investor involvement may require additional time for FEMA compliance and regulatory clearances.
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Yes, foreign nationals can be directors and shareholders subject to FEMA regulations and sectoral caps. At least one director must be Indian resident. Foreign investment may require government approval in certain sectors. We handle all FEMA compliance and regulatory approvals.
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Independent directors are mandatory for large public companies (paid-up capital >₹10 crores or turnover >₹100 crores). They provide independent oversight, protect minority shareholders, and ensure compliance with governance standards. We help identify and appoint qualified independent directors.
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Yes, public companies can raise funds through private placement, rights issue, or public issue after incorporation. However, IPO requires SEBI registration and compliance with specific eligibility criteria including track record, financial performance, and governance standards.
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Company Secretary is mandatory if paid-up capital exceeds ₹50 lakhs. CFO is required if paid-up capital exceeds ₹10 crores. Statutory auditor appointment is mandatory for all companies. Internal auditor may be required based on turnover thresholds.
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We provide comprehensive compliance management services including annual filing, board meeting support, regulatory updates, governance advisory, and IPO preparation. Our dedicated relationship team ensures your company maintains highest standards of compliance and governance.
Start Your Business Journey Today
Get a free consultation with a Lawful Journey expert. We’ll help you choose the right structure, explain the process, and get your company incorporated—fast, legally, and stress-free.
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