Incorporation delays are almost always document delays. Assemble the full set before you file SPICe+ and the process is smooth. This guide lists exactly what the MCA expects — for directors, shareholders and the registered office — plus the special rules for foreign directors that trip up cross-border founders.
- Every director and shareholder needs PAN, Aadhaar, ID proof, address proof and a photo.
- The registered office needs a recent utility bill plus an owner's NOC.
- Address proof (bank statement/utility bill) must generally be not older than two months.
- Foreign directors' documents must be notarised and apostilled — plan for the lead time.
For every director and shareholder
- PAN and Aadhaar.
- Identity proof (passport, voter ID or driving licence).
- Address proof (recent bank statement or utility bill, under two months old).
- A passport-size photograph.
For the registered office
- Proof of the premises (utility bill, not older than two months).
- A No Objection Certificate from the owner, plus the rent agreement if rented.
Document checklist at a glance
| Party | Documents |
|---|---|
| Indian director/shareholder | PAN, Aadhaar, ID proof, address proof, photo |
| Foreign director | Passport + address proof, notarised & apostilled |
| Registered office | Utility bill (<2 months), NOC, rent agreement |
“A foreign director's documents must be notarised and apostilled. Plan for that early — it is the most common cause of incorporation delay.”
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a residential address as the registered office?
Yes. A residential address is acceptable with a valid utility bill and the owner's NOC. You can change it later via INC-22.
How recent must the address proof be?
Generally the utility bill or bank statement should not be older than two months at the time of filing.
Do all directors need a DIN before incorporation?
DINs for the first directors can be applied for within the SPICe+ form itself, so you do not need them in advance for a fresh incorporation.
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