REGISTRATION OF ONE PERSON COMPANY (OPC) IN INDIA
WHAT IS AN OPC?
Section 2(62) of the Companies Act, 2013, “One Person Company” means a company which has only one person as a member.
OPC is a type of business entity that allows a single individual to operate a company with limited liability protection.
WHAT ARE THE FEATURES OF OPC?
1. Single owner: Only one person can own and manage the company.
2. Limited liability: The owner's personal assets are protected in case of business debts or liabilities.
3. Separate legal entity: The company has its own legal identity, separate from the owner.
4. Compliance requirements: OPCs must comply with relevant laws and regulations, such as filing annual returns and tax returns.
5. Name: The company name must include "OPC" or "One Person Company" to indicate its status.
WHAT IS THE PROCESS OF SETTING UP AN OPC?
1. Reservation of name by filing SPICe+ Part A form: SPICe+ Part A form is an online application for registering a new company in India. Ensure that the selected name is unique and includes "OPC" or "One Person Company".
2. Obtain DSC (Digital Signature Certificate): Required for filing documents online.
3. Filing SPICe+ forms: Spice+ form is an online application for incorporation, which is to be filed after name approval and it is consists of SPICe+ Part B, INC-33 (e-MOA), INC- 34 (e-AOA), Agile pro and INC-9, along with necessary attachments.
The entire process usually takes 7-10 working days, subject to ROC processing times and document accuracy.
4. Certificate of incorporation: MCA after proper verification of documents submitted with the SPICe+ forms and upon approval, issues the Certificate of Incorporation (COI) as proof of company registration.
Documents required:
1. ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN, etc.)
2. Address proof (utility bills, etc.)
3. Passport-sized photographs
4. Rent agreement or property documents (for registered office)
5. NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the landlord (if applicable)
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF OPC?
1. Limited liability: Protects personal assets from business risks.
2. Sole control: Single owner has complete control over the company.
3. Easy to manage: Simple compliance requirements and fewer regulatory formalities.
4. Credibility: OPCs are considered more credible than sole proprietorships.
5. Business continuity: OPCs can continue to operate even if the owner is unable to manage the business.
WHAT ARE THE LIMITATIONS OF OPC?
1. Limited Fundraising: OPCs cannot raise funds from multiple investors or venture capitalists.
2. No Investment in Other Companies: OPCs cannot invest in other companies.
3. Limited Business Activities: OPCs can only engage in specified business activities.
4. No Change in Ownership: The ownership cannot be transferred or changed.
5. Limited Size: OPCs are suitable for small businesses, not large-scale operations.
WHY OPC IS BETTER THAN PRIVATE COMPANY?
1. Simplified Compliance: OPCs have fewer compliance requirements compared to private companies.
2. Single Ownership: OPCs allow for single ownership, giving the owner complete control.
3. Limited Liability: OPCs offer limited liability protection, safeguarding personal assets.
4. Easy to Manage: OPCs are simpler to manage, with fewer formalities and paperwork.
5. No Need for Board Meetings: OPCs are exempt from holding board meetings.
6. Less Stringent Accounting Requirements: OPCs have less stringent accounting and auditing requirements.
FAQ’s
Q1: What is a One Person Company (OPC)?
A1: An OPC is a type of private company with only one shareholder and director.
Q2: Who can form an OPC?
A2: Any individual, including professionals and entrepreneurs, can form an OPC.
Q3: What are the benefits of an OPC?
A3: Benefits include limited liability, single ownership, simplified compliance, and tax benefits.
Q4: Can an OPC have more than one director?
A4: No, an OPC can only have one director, who is also the shareholder.
Q5: Can an OPC raise funds from investors?
A5: No, OPCs cannot raise funds from multiple investors or venture capitalists.
Q6: Can an OPC convert to a private company?
A6: Yes, an OPC can convert to a private company after two years.
Q7: What is the minimum authorized capital for an OPC?
A7: There is no minimum authorized capital requirement for an OPC.
Q8: Can a foreign national form an OPC?
A8: No, only Indian citizens and residents can form an OPC.
Q9: Can an OPC own property?
A9: Yes, an OPC can own property in its own name.
Q10: What are the compliance requirements for an OPC?
A10: OPCs must file annual returns, tax returns, and other necessary documents with the Registrar of Companies (ROC).
Q11: Can an OPC be dissolved?
A11: Yes, an OPC can be dissolved voluntarily or by the ROC in case of non-compliance.