Microfinance Company
Registration

Quick Contact

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.

Documents Required

Microfinance Company Registration

Registering a microfinance company in India involves several steps and compliance with specific regulatory requirements. Below is a concise guide on the required documents and the registration process.

Eligibility Criteria

Registering a microfinance company involves meeting specific eligibility criteria set by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Here are the key criteria:

1. Type of Company

  • Private Limited Company or Public Limited Company: The entity must be registered under the Companies Act, 2013.

2. Net Owned Fund (NOF)

  • Minimum Capital Requirement: The company must have a minimum net owned fund of ₹5 crores. For companies registered in the North Eastern Region, the requirement is ₹2 crores.

3. Directors’ Qualifications and Experience

  • Minimum Number of Directors: At least two directors for a private limited company and three for a public limited company.
  • Relevant Experience: Directors should preferably have experience in microfinance or banking, financial services, and insurance (BFSI) sector.

4. Business Plan

  • Detailed Proposal: A well-structured business plan outlining the company’s operational strategy, market analysis, financial projections, and growth plan.

5. Organizational Structure

  • Qualified Personnel: Adequate and qualified personnel to handle microfinance operations, risk management, and compliance.

6. Compliance with RBI Guidelines

  • Adherence to Regulations: The company must comply with all relevant RBI regulations, including those related to asset classification, provisioning norms, capital adequacy, and customer protection.

7. Goodwill and Reputation

  • No Criminal Records: Promoters, directors, and key management personnel should not have any criminal records.
  • Sound Financial Position: The company should be financially sound and capable of managing microfinance activities responsibly.

8. Operational Readiness

  • Office Infrastructure: Adequate office infrastructure to carry out microfinance operations.
  • Technology and Systems: Appropriate IT systems and software to manage microfinance activities and ensure data security.

9. Grievance Redressal Mechanism

  • Customer Support: A robust grievance redressal mechanism to address customer complaints and issues promptly and effectively.

Advantages

  • Financial Inclusion: Provides access to credit for underserved populations.
  • Economic Development: Supports small businesses and entrepreneurship.
  • Regulatory Credibility: Enhances trust and attracts funding.
  • Diverse Revenue Streams: Offers various financial products and services.
  • Social Impact: Helps reduce poverty and empower marginalized groups.
  • Regulatory Support: Operates within a clear regulatory framework.
  • Competitive Advantage: Gains a market edge as a regulated entity.

Disdvantages

  • Regulatory Compliance: Complex and resource-intensive.
  • High Operational Costs: Infrastructure, technology, and training expenses.
  • Risk Management: Higher credit and operational risks.
  • Limited Profit Margins: Small loan sizes and high delinquency rates.
  • Intense Competition: Saturated market with numerous players.
  • Social and Ethical Concerns: Risk of over-indebtedness and high interest rates.

Required Documents

Incorporation Documents:
  1. Certificate of Incorporation: From the Registrar of Companies (RoC).
  2. Memorandum of Association (MoA): Stating the company’s objectives.
  3. Articles of Association (AoA): Governing the company’s operations.
Capital Proof:
  1. Bank Statement: Showing the deposit of the initial capital.
  2. Net Owned Fund (NOF) Certificate: From a Chartered Accountant.
Business Plan:
  1. Detailed Business Plan: Market analysis, financial projections, and operational strategy.
Board Resolution:
  1. Board Resolution: Authorizing the application for microfinance company registration.
Directors’ and Shareholders’ Information:
  1. Identity Proof: PAN card, Aadhaar card, passport, or voter ID.
  2. Address Proof: For directors and shareholders.
  3. Directors’ Resumes: Professional qualifications and experience details.
Financial Statements:
  1. Audited Financial Statements: For the last three years (if applicable).
  2. Provisional Financial Statements: If the company is newly incorporated.
Banker’s Report:
  1. Banker’s Report: Confirming the financial status and creditworthiness of the company.
Organizational Structure:
  1. Organizational Structure Chart: Showing key personnel and their roles.
IT Policy:
  1. Information Technology Policy: Systems and processes for managing operations and data security.
Compliance with RBI Guidelines:
  1. Self-Declaration: Compliance with RBI guidelines.
  2. Internal Control Systems: Risk management policies and procedures.
Application Form:
  1. Completed and Signed Application Form: For registration as a microfinance company.

Steps for Microfinance Company Registration

  1. Incorporate a Company:
    • Register a company under the Companies Act, 2013, either as a Private Limited Company or Public Limited Company.
  2. Raise Initial Capital:

    • Ensure the company has the minimum required net owned funds (NOF) of ₹5 crores (₹2 crores for the North Eastern Region).
  3. Open a Bank Account:

    • Open a bank account and deposit the initial capital.
  4. Apply to RBI:

    • Submit an online application for registration through the RBI’s COSMOS portal.
  5. Submit Hard Copy of Application:

    • Send the hard copy of the application along with required documents to the Regional Office of the RBI.
  6. RBI Review and Approval:

    • The RBI reviews the application and documents, conducts due diligence, and grants the Certificate of Registration (CoR) if satisfied.

Proprietorship vs Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) vs Company

FeaturesProprietorshipPartnershipLLPCompany
DefinitionUnregistered type of business entity managed by one single personA formal agreement between two or more parties to manage and operate a businessA Limited Liability Partnership is a hybrid combination having features similar to a partnership firm and liabilities similar to a company.Registered type of entity with limited liability to the owners and shareholders
Ownership
  • Sole Ownership
  • Min 2 Partners
  • Max 50 Partners
  • Designated Partners
  • Min 2 Directors
  • Min 2 Shareholders
  • Max 15 Directors
  • Max 200 Shareholders

For One Person Company

  • 1 Director
  • 1 Nominee Director
Registration Time7-9 working days
Promoter LiabilityUnlimited LiabilityLimited Liability
Documentation
  • MSME
  • GST Registration
  • Partnership Deed
  • LLP Deed
  • Incorporation Certificate
  • MOA
  • AOA
  • Incorporation Certificate
GovernanceUnder Partnership ActLLP Act, 2008Under Companies Act,2013
TransferabilityNon TransferableTransferable if registered under ROFTransferable
Compliance Requirements
  • Income tax filing if turnover is more than Rs.2.5 lakhs
  • ITR 5
  • Form 11
  • Form 8
  • ITR 5
  • ITR 6
  • MCA filing
  • Auditor’sappointment

Know More

One Person Company (OPC) Registration FAQs

Q: What is an OPC, and how does it differ from other business structures?
A: An OPC, or One Person Company, is a unique business structure in India that allows a single individual to operate as a company, combining the advantages of a sole proprietorship with the legal protection of a private limited company.

Q: When was the concept of OPC introduced in India?
A: The concept of OPC was introduced under the Companies Act of 2013.

Q: What is the primary objective of OPC registration?
A: The primary objective of OPC registration is to promote entrepreneurship and encourage the formalization of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

Q: What are the eligibility criteria for OPC registration?
A: To register an OPC, you must be a natural person and an Indian citizen, resident in India for at least 182 days during the previous calendar year. The OPC must have a minimum authorized capital of Rs 1,00,000, and a nominee must be appointed.

Q: Can an OPC engage in financial activities like banking or insurance?
A: No, an OPC cannot engage in financial activities like banking, insurance, or investments.

Q: What happens if the OPCs paid-up share capital exceeds 50 lakhs or its annual turnover exceeds 2 Crores?
A: In such cases, the OPC must be converted into a private limited company to comply with regulatory requirements.

Q: How many OPCs can an individual establish?
A: An individual can establish only one OPC.

Q: Can an OPC have a minor as its member?
A: No, an OPC cannot have a minor as its member.

Q: What are the advantages of registering an OPC?
A: Advantages include limited liability, easy fundraising, reduced compliance, simple incorporation, efficient management, and perpetual succession.

Q: Are there any disadvantages to registering an OPC?
A: Yes, disadvantages include suitability primarily for small businesses, restrictions on certain activities, and a potential lack of clear distinction between ownership and management.

Q: What is the registration process for an OPC in India?
A: OPC registration is done through the SPICe+ form, involving obtaining a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC), Director Identification Number (DIN), name reservation, preparation of MOA and AOA, filing forms, and obtaining a Certificate of Incorporation.

Q: What documents are required for OPC registration?
A: Required documents include MOA, AOA, nominees consent, proof of registered office, declarations, and a compliance certificate.

Q: What is the significance of obtaining a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)?
A: A DSC is used for electronically signing documents during the registration process.

Q: What is a Director Identification Number (DIN), and why is it required?
A: A DIN is a unique identification number for directors, and its required for legal compliance and governance.

Q: How is the registered office address determined for an OPC?
A: The registered office address should be decided and declared during the registration process.

Q: What is the role of a nominee in an OPC?
A: A nominee is appointed to take over the OPC in the event of the director’s death or incapacity.

Q: What is the Certificate of Incorporation, and when is it issued?
A: The Certificate of Incorporation is an official document issued by the ROC after approval, signifying the successful registration of an OPC.

Q: Why should I choose SS Memane & Company for OPC registration?
A: SS Memane & Company offers expert guidance, simplifies the registration process, ensures compliance, and provides dedicated support to make OPC registration hassle-free.

Q: What are the post-incorporation formalities for an OPC?
A: Post-incorporation formalities may include filing a notice regarding the registered office within 30 days after incorporation.

Q: How can SS Memane & Company assist with post-incorporation formalities for OPCs?
A: SS Memane & Company’s experts are ready to assist in fulfilling OPC compliance requirements, ensuring your business remains in full legal compliance.

Our happy clients say about us

5/5

Starting my business as a sole proprietorship was made incredibly easy with the guidance and support from SS Memane . Their team provided clear instructions and assistance throughout the process, making it seamless and stress-free. Highly recommended.

Rehman Shan
CEO
5/5

I couldn't be happier with the service provided by SS Memane for my sole proprietorship registration. They were efficient, professional, and knowledgeable, ensuring that everything was done correctly and promptly. Thank you for your excellent support!

MarkPhillips
Business Owner
5/5

SS Memane exceeded my expectations with their exceptional service for my proprietorship registration. From start to finish, they were responsive, thorough, and dedicated to ensuring a smooth process. I'm grateful for their expertise and would definitely choose them again!

Rahul Mehta
Startup fOUNDER