Section 8 Company Registration

Section 8 Company Registration in India refers to the legal formation of a non-profit company under Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013, for charitable, social, educational, religious, environmental, research, or similar non-profit purposes.

By Aabha GargLast updated: October 5, 2026

Separate legal entity

Limited liability protection for members

High credibility among donors and government authorities

Eligible to receive CSR funding

Can apply for 12AB and 80G tax benefits (subject to approval)

5000+

Happy Customers

2427+

NGOs Registered

3499+

Govt Registrations

Separate legal entity

Limited liability protection for members

High credibility among donors and government authorities

Eligible to receive CSR funding

Can apply for 12AB and 80G tax benefits (subject to approval)

5000+

Happy Customers

2427+

NGOs Registered

3499+

Govt Registrations

A Section 8 company is a non-profit organization registered under the Indian Companies Act, 2013, formed to promote charitable causes like education, science, social welfare, and environmental protection. A company is referred to as a "Section 8" company when it is registered as a non-profit organization (NPO), i.e., when it has the motive of promoting arts, commerce, education, charity, protection of the environment, sports, science, research, social welfare, and religion.

At NGOExperts, we help founders, trustees, directors, and social entrepreneurs with Section 8 Company Registration simply and properly. Our team supports you with structure selection, name planning, object drafting, documents, MCA filing, and post-registration guidance.

Ready to Start Your Section 8 Company Registration?

Apply for Section 8 Registration

Who Should Choose Section 8 Company Registration?

Section 8 Company Registration online is suitable for people seeking a professional, compliance-focused NGO structure. You should consider this service if you are:

Planning to start a new NGO in India
Confused between Trust, Society, and Section 8 Company
Starting work in education, healthcare, environment, charity, research, sports, or social welfare
Planning to apply for 12A and 80G registration after incorporation
Planning to apply for CSR-1 and CSR funding in the future
Looking for a structure with better governance and credibility
Working with donors, companies, institutions, or government bodies
Creating a long-term social impact organization

Why Choose Section 8 Company for NGO Registration in India?

Many founders choose a Trust or Society because they seem simple at first. But if your long-term plan includes grants, CSR funding, institutional donations, professional operations, or a larger team, a Section 8 Company may provide greater credibility.

Section 8 Company Registration is completed with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. It has directors, members, an MOA, an AOA, statutory records, and annual ROC compliance. This makes it more structured and transparent for donors and corporate partners.

Note : If you are planning to start a Section 8 Company, learn more about Section 8 Company Registration in India, including eligibility, required documents, registration process, cost, and timeline.

Key Benefits of Section 8 Company Registration in India

Tax Exemptions: Eligible for income tax exemptions under Section 12A, while donors can claim tax deductions under Section 80G.
Zero Stamp Duty: Exempt from paying stamp duty on incorporation documents (such as the MOA and AOA), reducing upfront costs.
Limited Liability: Members and directors are not personally liable for the company's debts or legal claims, protecting their personal assets.
No Minimum Capital: Can be incorporated without any minimum paid-up capital requirement.
Credibility & Trust: Because the Ministry of Corporate Affairs strictly governs them, they are highly trusted by corporate houses, governments, and foreign donors.
Perpetual Succession: Continues to exist indefinitely, even if members, directors, or shareholders change or pass away.

Section 8 Company vs Trust vs Society

Choosing the right structure is very important. The cheapest option is not always the best option. The right structure depends on your activity, location, members, funding plan, and future compliance needs.

Structure	Best Suited For	Common Requirement	Good to Know
Trust	Charitable, religious, or family-led social work	Usually a minimum of 2 trustees	Simple structure, but rules and registration processes may vary by state
Society	Membership-based organizations, associations, and community groups	Usually a minimum of 7 members	Good where a governing body and membership model are important
Section 8 Company	Professional NGOs, CSR-facing work, grant-focused organizations, and long-term social impact projects	Usually 2 directors and 2 members/shareholders	Strong governance image and MCA-based compliance

If you plan to approach CSR companies, institutional donors, foreign partners, or government programs in the future, discuss Section 8 Company Registration before finalizing the structure.

Activities Allowed Under Section 8 Company in India

The main purpose of establishing a Section 8 Company is to promote non-profit objectives, such as:

Education
Social welfare
Charity
Healthcare and medical relief
Religion
Research
Science
Art and culture
Sports
Environment protection
Skill development
Women empowerment
Child welfare
Rural development
Any other charitable or social development object

The objects must be drafted carefully because they serve as the basis for future compliance, donation planning, 12A, 80G, CSR-1, and grant applications.

Section 8 Company Registration Eligibility: Who Can Apply?

To register a Section 8 Company in India, the proposed organization should meet basic eligibility conditions.

1. Purpose/Objective

The company must be formed with an objective to promote charitable or social welfare activities such as education, science, arts, religion, environmental protection, or any other public benefit activities.
Profits or income must be reinvested for the stated objectives and not distributed to members.

2. Number of Members

Minimum members: at least two individuals are required for a private Section 8 Company, and at least three for a public Section 8 Company.
There is a 200-member limit.

3. Legal Status of Members

Individuals or entities (including partnerships, companies, and NGOs) may become members.
All directors must be Indian residents, though foreign nationals can also be appointed with proper compliance.

4. Directors

A minimum of two directors for a private company and three directors for a public company.
All directors must hold a Director Identification Number (DIN).

5. Approval from Authorities

A license must be obtained from the Registrar of Companies (ROC) after providing proof that the company is formed for charitable purposes.
The company must comply with the provisions of the Income-tax Act to avail exemptions under Sections 12A and 80G.

6. No Profit Distribution

The company's income cannot be distributed as dividends. It must be reinvested in the organization's objectives.

The exact requirement depends on the proposed structure, members, directors, and MCA rules applicable at the time of filing.

Section 8 Company Registration Process in India

At NGOExperts, we follow a clear step-by-step process so that you understand what is happening at each stage.

1. Obtain Digital Signature Certificates

The subscribers, proposed directors, and authorized signatories who must sign the MCA forms must hold valid Digital Signature Certificates.

2. Apply for Director Identification Numbers

DINs for eligible proposed directors are generally applied for through the integrated incorporation application if they do not already have one. A separate Form DIR-3 is normally not required for such first directors.

3. Reserve the Company Name

Apply for name approval through SPICe+ Part A on the MCA portal. The proposed name should reflect the company’s charitable or non-profit objectives and comply with the Companies Act and Incorporation Rules.

4. Draft the Legal Documents

Prepare the Memorandum of Association, Articles of Association, charitable object clause, subscribers’ and directors’ declarations, financial projections, and registered-office documents.

5. Submit the Incorporation Application

File the application electronically on the MCA portal using SPICe+ and its linked forms, as applicable. For the fresh incorporation of a Section 8 Company, a separate Form INC-12 is generally not required, as the license request is processed through the integrated incorporation application.

6. Receive the Incorporation Approval

After approval, the Registrar of Companies issues the Certificate of Incorporation, which contains the Corporate Identity Number. The Section 8 license is granted through the integrated approval process, and PAN and TAN are generally allotted along with incorporation.

Estimated timeline: Registration usually takes around 10–20 working days, depending on name approval, document accuracy, MCA processing, and any resubmission requirements.

Still Confused About the Section 8 Company Registration Process?

Don't worry—we make the entire process simple and transparent. Our legal experts will explain each step, help you prepare the required documents, and handle the complete registration process from start to finish.

Get Free Process Guidance

Section 8 Company Registration Cost & Timeline

The cost of Section 8 Company Registration depends on the number of directors, DSC requirement, state stamp duty, registered office documents, MCA/ROC processing, and professional support required.

Particulars	Cost	Timeline	What Is Included
Consultation & Structure Planning	Included	1 day	Discussion on NGO objective, city, founders, activities, and future 12A/80G/CSR-1 planning
DSC for 2 Directors	₹5,000	1–2 working days	Digital Signature Certificate for online MCA filing
Name Application & MCA Name Check	₹1,000	1–3 working days	Name search, name planning, and MCA name application support
Professional Fee	₹3,999	2–4 working days	Drafting of charitable objects, MOA, and AOA for Section 8 Company
Government Fee & Stamp Duty	₹2,000 – ₹8,000	As per MCA/State	MCA fee, stamp duty, and state-based charges, as applicable
PAN & TAN	Included	Along with incorporation	PAN and TAN through the MCA-linked incorporation process
Certificate of Incorporation Support	Included	Subject to ROC approval	Follow-up and approval coordination
Post-Registration Guidance	Included	After incorporation	Bank account, 12A, 80G, NGO Darpan, and CSR-1 guidance

Final Section 8 Registration Package

Service	Digital Signatures for 2	Professional Fees	Government Fees	GST	Estimated Total Cost	Typical Timeline
Section 8 Company Registration	₹5,000	₹ 3,999	₹2,000 – ₹10,000 (as actual)	18% on the professional fee	₹11,000 – ₹19,599 approx.	10–20 working days

What This Package Includes

Section 8 Company structure consultation
Name planning and MCA name application support
DSC support for 2 directors
MOA and AOA drafting
Charitable object drafting
MCA/ROC filing support
SPICe+ incorporation support
Director and member document review
PAN and TAN support through incorporation
Certificate of Incorporation coordination
Basic post-registration guidance for bank account, 12A, 80G, NGO Darpan, and CSR-1

Post-Registration Compliance and Next Steps

Getting the Certificate of Incorporation is not the end — it is the beginning of your NGO's legal journey. After Section 8 Company Registration, you may need the following:

Post-Registration Work	Why It Is Important
PAN and TAN	Required for tax and financial compliance
Bank account	Required to receive donations, grants, and expenses
Accounting setup	Helps maintain transparent records from day one
12A registration	Helps the NGO claim income tax exemption, subject to conditions
80G registration	Helps donors claim a deduction, subject to conditions
NGO Darpan / NITI Aayog registration	Useful for government schemes and NGO recognition
CSR-1 registration	Required for eligible NGOs planning to receive CSR funds
Annual ROC filing	Section 8 Company must complete MCA annual compliance
Income tax return	Required as per the Income Tax Act
Audit and financial statements	Important for transparency, donors, and compliance

NGOExperts can help you with these registrations and compliance services after incorporation.

Common Mistakes in Section 8 Company Registration

Many applications face delays because of avoidable mistakes. Proper planning can save time and cost. Common mistakes include:

Choosing a name that does not match the objects
Copy-pasting generic NGO objects
Not planning future 12A, 80G, and CSR-1 requirements
Missing NOC from the owner
Incorrect director/member details
Ignoring post-registration compliance
Assuming the registration certificate is enough for donations and CSR funding

At NGOExperts, we focus on correct drafting and compliance-friendly documentation from the beginning.

Why Choose NGOExperts for Section 8 Company Registration?

NGOExperts makes Section 8 Company Registration Online simple, transparent, and fully remote — no physical visits required.

Practical advice on Trust vs Society vs Section 8 Company
Clear explanation in simple language
Support for name planning and object drafting
Documentation support for directors, members, and the registered office
MCA filing assistance
Guidance for 12A, 80G, NGO Darpan, and CSR-1 after registration
Realistic timelines and transparent process

Also read
Section 8 Company Registration in Andhra Pradesh
Section 8 Company Registration in Delhi
Section 8 Company Registration in Karnataka
Section 8 Company Registration in Maharashtra
Section 8 Company Registration in Uttar Pradesh

Trusted By NGOs Across India

Hundreds of NGOs, social entrepreneurs, and nonprofit founders have trusted NGOExperts for reliable Section 8 Company registration. Our legal experts provide end-to-end support—from document preparation and MCA filing to obtaining your Certificate of Incorporation.

About the Author

Aabha Garg

A Content Strategist at NGOExperts, who focuses on NGO registration, 12A and 80G registration, FCRA compliance, income tax filing for non-profits, and CSR funding guidelines in India. I research and write our compliance guides in collaboration with our in-house Chartered Accountants and Company Secretaries, so every article reflects current tax and regulatory requirements for the NGO and non-profit sector.

Written by Aabha Garg. Last updated on Oct 5, 2026, 12:21 PM

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Section 8 Company Registration

Section 8 Company Registration is the process of registering a non-profit organization under the Companies Act, 2013. It is for people who want to work for social welfare, education, healthcare, charity, environmental protection, or other public causes. A Section 8 Company does not share its profits with its members. Instead, all the money it earns is used to support its mission and help society.

Is Section 8 Company good for NGO registration?

Company is a good option for NGOs that want greater credibility, structured governance, and future readiness for 12A, 80G, CSR-1, grants, and institutional funding.

How many people are required to start a Section 8 Company?

Usually, a Section 8 Company can be started with at least 2 directors and 2 members/shareholders. The exact requirement depends on the company structure and applicable rules.

Who is Eligible to Register a Section 8 Company?

Any individual, Indian citizen, NRI, or legal entity can register a Section 8 Company if the organization is formed for non-profit objectives and meets the legal requirements.

What Documents are Required for Section 8 Company Registration?

The required documents include PAN card, Aadhaar card or passport, address proof, passport-size photographs, registered office address proof, and the company's MOA and AOA.

How Long Does Section 8 Company Registration Take?

The registration process usually takes 15 to 30 working days, depending on document verification and MCA approval.

What is the Cost of Section 8 Company Registration?

The registration cost depends on government fees, professional charges, and the specific requirements of the organization.

Can a Section 8 Company Earn Income?

Yes. A Section 8 Company can earn income through donations, grants, CSR funding, membership fees, and permitted activities. However, its profits must be used only for its charitable objectives.

Can a Section 8 Company Receive CSR Funding?

Yes. A Section 8 Company can receive CSR funding if it meets the eligibility requirements under the Companies Act, 2013 and applicable CSR rules.

Can a Section 8 Company Receive Foreign Donations?

Yes. A Section 8 Company can receive foreign donations after obtaining FCRA registration and complying with the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act.

Is Section 8 Company Registration Fully Online?

Yes. Section 8 Company registration is completed online through the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) portal.

Can a Single Person Register a Section 8 Company?

No. A minimum of 2 directors and 2 members is required to register a private Section 8 Company.

Is Section 8 Company Better Than a Trust or Society?

It depends on your organization's objectives. A Section 8 Company generally offers stronger governance, greater credibility, and better transparency, while Trusts and Societies may be suitable for different types of charitable activities.

Section 8 Company Registration in Karnataka: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

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Section 8 Company Registration in Delhi: Process & Fees (2026)

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Section 8 Company Registration in Andhra Pradesh: Complete NGO Setup Guide(2026)

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Section 8 Company Registration Cost & Timeline

The cost of Section 8 Company Registration depends on the number of directors, DSC requirement, state stamp duty, registered office documents, MCA/ROC processing, and professional support required.

Particulars	Cost	Timeline	What Is Included
Consultation & Structure Planning	Included	1 day	Discussion on NGO objective, city, founders, activities, and future 12A/80G/CSR-1 planning
DSC for 2 Directors	₹5,000	1–2 working days	Digital Signature Certificate for online MCA filing
Name Application & MCA Name Check	₹1,000	1–3 working days	Name search, name planning, and MCA name application support
Professional Fee	₹3,999	2–4 working days	Drafting of charitable objects, MOA, and AOA for Section 8 Company
Government Fee & Stamp Duty	₹2,000 – ₹8,000	As per MCA/State	MCA fee, stamp duty, and state-based charges, as applicable
PAN & TAN	Included	Along with incorporation	PAN and TAN through the MCA-linked incorporation process
Certificate of Incorporation Support	Included	Subject to ROC approval	Follow-up and approval coordination
Post-Registration Guidance	Included	After incorporation	Bank account, 12A, 80G, NGO Darpan, and CSR-1 guidance

Final Section 8 Registration Package

Service	Digital Signatures for 2	Professional Fees	Government Fees	GST	Estimated Total Cost	Typical Timeline
Section 8 Company Registration	₹5,000	₹ 3,999	₹2,000 – ₹10,000 (as actual)	18% on the professional fee	₹11,000 – ₹19,599 approx.	10–20 working days

What This Package Includes

Section 8 Company structure consultation
Name planning and MCA name application support
DSC support for 2 directors
MOA and AOA drafting
Charitable object drafting
MCA/ROC filing support
SPICe+ incorporation support
Director and member document review
PAN and TAN support through incorporation
Certificate of Incorporation coordination
Basic post-registration guidance for bank account, 12A, 80G, NGO Darpan, and CSR-1

Post-Registration Compliance and Next Steps

Getting the Certificate of Incorporation is not the end — it is the beginning of your NGO's legal journey. After Section 8 Company Registration, you may need the following:

Post-Registration Work	Why It Is Important
PAN and TAN	Required for tax and financial compliance
Bank account	Required to receive donations, grants, and expenses
Accounting setup	Helps maintain transparent records from day one
12A registration	Helps the NGO claim income tax exemption, subject to conditions
80G registration	Helps donors claim a deduction, subject to conditions
NGO Darpan / NITI Aayog registration	Useful for government schemes and NGO recognition
CSR-1 registration	Required for eligible NGOs planning to receive CSR funds
Annual ROC filing	Section 8 Company must complete MCA annual compliance
Income tax return	Required as per the Income Tax Act
Audit and financial statements	Important for transparency, donors, and compliance

NGOExperts can help you with these registrations and compliance services after incorporation.

Common Mistakes in Section 8 Company Registration

Many applications face delays because of avoidable mistakes. Proper planning can save time and cost. Common mistakes include:

Choosing a name that does not match the objects
Copy-pasting generic NGO objects
Not planning future 12A, 80G, and CSR-1 requirements
Missing NOC from the owner
Incorrect director/member details
Ignoring post-registration compliance
Assuming the registration certificate is enough for donations and CSR funding

At NGOExperts, we focus on correct drafting and compliance-friendly documentation from the beginning.

Section 8 Company Registration

Ready to Start Your Section 8 Company Registration?

Who Should Choose Section 8 Company Registration?

Why Choose Section 8 Company for NGO Registration in India?

Key Benefits of Section 8 Company Registration in India

Section 8 Company vs Trust vs Society

Activities Allowed Under Section 8 Company in India