NGO Registration in India
What is NGO Registration?
NGO Registration under Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013 allows you to establish a formal non-profit entity that operates for charitable, social, or educational purposes without the primary objective of profit generation. Unlike regular companies, Section 8 companies enjoy special privileges, including license to drop the "Limited" or "Private Limited" suffix, exemption from paying stamp duty in many states, and tax benefits under the Income Tax Act.
This registration is ideal for organizations focused on promoting commerce, art, science, sports, education, research, social welfare, religion, charity, environmental protection, or other similar objectives. Section 8 companies provide the dual advantage of a corporate structure with the social purpose of a non-profit, offering greater credibility and transparency compared to other NGO structures like Trusts or Societies.
The registration process involves obtaining approval from the Registrar of Companies (ROC) and complying with specific requirements outlined in the Companies Act. Our expert team guides you through the entire process, from name approval to post-registration compliance.
Benefits of NGO Registration
Limited Liability Protection
Members' liability limited to their contribution, protecting personal assets.
Tax Exemptions
Eligible for income tax exemptions under sections 12A and 80G.
Foreign Funding Eligibility
Can apply for FCRA registration to receive foreign contributions.
CSR Fund Eligibility
Can receive Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds from companies.
Enhanced Credibility
Formal corporate structure provides greater transparency and trustworthiness.
NGO Registration Process
Name Approval
Apply for name approval with the Registrar of Companies (ROC) by suggesting multiple name options. The name should reflect the charitable or non-profit objectives of the organization.
License Application
Submit an application to the ROC for a license under Section 8, along with supporting documents including the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA).
Incorporation Filing
Once the license is approved, file for incorporation with complete documentation, including consent of directors, proof of registered office, and declarations.
Receipt of Certificate
After successful verification, the ROC issues a Certificate of Incorporation, officially establishing your Section 8 company or NGO.
Post-Registration Compliance
Complete post-registration formalities such as applying for PAN and TAN, opening a bank account, and applying for additional registrations like 12A, 80G, or FCRA as needed.
Documents Required for NGO Registration
Digital Signature Certificates (DSC) for all directors
Director Identification Numbers (DIN) for all directors
Identity proof of all directors (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport)
Address proof of all directors
Proof of registered office address
Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA)
Declaration by each director and subscribers
Statement of objects of the proposed company (detailing charitable purposes)
Estimated income and expenditure statement for the next three years
Registration Timeline
Name Approval
3-7 days
License Application
15-20 days
Incorporation
7-10 days
Total Process
30-45 days
NGO Registration Service
- End-to-end assistance for NGO formation
- Expert preparation of all legal documents
- Guidance on selecting the right NGO structure
- Assistance with 12A and 80G registration
- Post-registration compliance support