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How to Register Your Business in India: A Step-by-Step Comparison of All Entity Types

Published on June 30, 2025

This blog will walk readers through the process of registering different business structures in India—Proprietorship, Partnership, LLP, and Private Limited Company.

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Starting a business in India is an exciting journey, but choosing the right business structure is crucial. From legal liability to tax implications and compliance requirements, your choice will shape the way your business operates. This guide breaks down the various types of business entities and offers a clear step-by-step comparison to help you make an informed decision.


Types of Business Entities in India

Here are the most common structures available for businesses in India:

  1. Sole Proprietorship

    • Best For: Small, low-risk businesses with one owner.

    • Compliance: Minimal; no separate legal entity.

    • Registration: Udyam (MSME), GST (if applicable), and local licenses.

  2. Partnership Firm

    • Best For: Businesses with 2 or more individuals sharing profits.

    • Compliance: Moderate; governed by the Indian Partnership Act, 1932.

    • Registration: Not mandatory, but recommended for legal benefits.

  3. Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)

    • Best For: Professional firms or medium-scale operations.

    • Compliance: Moderate; separate legal entity.

    • Registration: Via the MCA portal; needs LLP Agreement & DSC.

  4. Private Limited Company (Pvt Ltd)

    • Best For: Startups, scalable businesses, tech firms.

    • Compliance: High; separate legal identity and regular ROC filings.

    • Registration: Through MCA; requires MOA, AOA, PAN, DSC, and DIN.

  5. One Person Company (OPC)

    • Best For: Sole owners wanting corporate structure.

    • Compliance: Similar to Pvt Ltd but with fewer requirements.

    • Registration: Same as Pvt Ltd, with nominee requirements.

  6. Section 8 Company (Non-Profit)

    • Best For: NGOs and non-profit initiatives.

    • Compliance: High; regulated under Companies Act, 2013.

    • Registration: Special licensing and compliance procedures.


Comparison Table: Business Entity Types

Feature Proprietorship Partnership LLP Pvt Ltd OPC
Legal Identity No No Yes Yes Yes
Liability Protection No No Yes Yes Yes
Minimum Owners 1 2 2 2 1
Compliance Level Low Medium Medium High Medium
Suitable For Individuals Family/Friends Startups Fundraising Solo Entrepreneurs
ROC Filing Required No No Yes Yes Yes
Taxation Structure Personal Tax Personal Tax LLP Tax Corporate Tax Corporate Tax

How to Register: Step-by-Step Process (for Pvt Ltd as example)

  1. Choose Entity Type (based on structure, growth plan, and compliance readiness).

  2. Apply for DSC (Digital Signature Certificate for directors).

  3. Get DIN (Director Identification Number).

  4. Name Reservation via RUN or SPICe+ form on MCA.

  5. File Incorporation Forms with MOA & AOA.

  6. Apply for PAN, TAN and open a company bank account.

  7. Register for GST, Shops Act, and other licenses (as required).


Why Choose Etax Saathi for Business Registration?

✅ Expert consultation on best-fit entity type
✅ Hassle-free DSC, DIN, and PAN processing
✅ End-to-end MCA filing and approval
✅ Post-registration compliance assistance
✅ Transparent pricing and fast turnaround


Start your business journey with confidence.
🚀 Get Free Business Setup Advice from Etax Saathi today!

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