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Section 8 Company Registration Fees in India: Cost Breakdown

Joel Dsouza

Published On:2025-10-22

Updated On:2025-10-24

15 min read

A Section 8 Company is a special type of non-profit organization registered under the Companies Act, 2013. To register as one, complete information about the Section 8 company registration fees is required. This cost covers government charges, stamp duty, and professional fees for drafting the MOA/AOA and filing with the ROC. These fees typically range from ₹14,000 to ₹25,000, depending on the state and complexity of the application.

Understanding the registration fees and cost structure of a Section 8 Company is crucial for founders and organizations planning to establish a social venture. A clear picture of the total expenses, including government charges, professional fees, and compliance costs, helps in effective budgeting, fundraising, and strategic decision-making.

Unlike traditional companies, a Section 8 Company reinvests its profits toward achieving its charitable objectives rather than distributing them to members. This structure is ideal for NGOs, non-profits, and social enterprises seeking formal recognition, limited liability, and tax benefits.

This article provides a complete breakdown of all cost components involved in Section 8 Company registration in India, covering government fees, professional charges, timelines, hidden costs, and post-registration compliance expenses. Additionally, if you are considering applying for Section 8 Company registration, this guide will help you compare it with other NGO structures to make an informed choice for your organization.

What are the Section 8 Company Registration Fees in India?

The total cost of registering a Section 8 Company includes government fees as well as professional service charges. The overall cost can vary depending on the complexity of your application and the state of registration.

Below is a breakdown of all fees:

Type of Fee	Description	Estimated Cost (INR)
Government Fees (MCA Fees)	Covers SPICe+ form filing, name reservation (RUN), and submission of MoA & AoA.	₹500 – ₹8,000
Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) & Director Identification Number (DIN)	Mandatory for all directors; includes DSC token and DIN application.	₹1,000 – ₹3,000 per director
Stamp Duty	Usually exempt from Section 8 Companies, but some states may charge a small fee.	Exempt – ₹100 – ₹2,500
Notary and Other Charges	For notarization, affidavits, document printing, and courier services.	₹200 – ₹1,000
Professional Fees	Charges for consultants, CA/CS support, end-to-end registration assistance, and drafting MoA/AoA.	₹10,000 – ₹25,000
PAN & TAN Application	Mandatory after registration via SPICe+ Part B.	₹150 – ₹300
Name Approval via RUN (Optional)	If the name is reserved separately, not using the SPICe+ integrated process.	₹1,000
Incorporation Certificate Copy Fees	If a physical or certified copy is requested from the ROC.	₹100 – ₹500
GST Registration (if applicable)	Required for revenue-generating activities or fundraising.	₹1,000 – ₹2,500 (professional fee)
Bank Account Opening Assistance	Optional professional help or a courier for opening the bank account.	₹500 – ₹1,000
Post-Incorporation Compliance (Optional / First Year)	Includes filing ADT-1, annual returns, and advisory services for the first year.	₹5,000 – ₹10,000

Case Study: How Much Does Registering a Section 8 Company in Delhi Cost?

To better understand the practicalities, costs, and timelines of registering a Section 8 Company, this case study walks through a realistic example of a non-profit NGO incorporated in Delhi. This example highlights all government and professional fees, potential delays, and lessons learned for new NGOs.

About the NGO

Before registration, it’s essential to define the NGO’s objectives, structure, and directors, as this determines both compliance and cost.

Name: Helping Hands Foundation (sample NGO)
State of Registration: Delhi
Objective: Social welfare and education for underprivileged children
Number of Directors: 2 (minimum requirement for Section 8)
Authorized Capital: ₹1 lakh

This setup ensures compliance with Section 8 regulations and helps estimate realistic fees and timelines.

Lessons Learned

This case study illustrates practical strategies to reduce costs, avoid delays, and streamline the Section 8 Company registration process.

Submit Multiple Name Options: Helps avoid rejection delays.
Ensure Accurate Documentation: Double-check identity proofs, address proofs, and MOA/AOA details before submission.
Use Experienced Consultants: Professional support reduces errors, speeds up approval, and ensures compliance.
Track Timelines: Regular follow-ups with ROC and the Regional Director can prevent unnecessary delays.
Plan for Hidden Costs: Notary, courier, and minor government fees can add ₹500–1,000 to the budget; include these in advance.

Key Takeaway: With careful planning, accurate documentation, and professional guidance, registering a Section 8 Company in Delhi can be completed within one month, with total costs ranging from ₹14,000 to ₹22,000, while avoiding unnecessary delays.

What is the Step-by-Step Process for Section 8 Company Registration (With Cost Insights)?

Registering a Section 8 Company involves several legal and procedural steps, each with its own set of government charges, professional fees, and processing timelines. Below is a detailed breakdown of each step and its associated costs.

Step 1: Name Availability & Reservation

The first step is to choose and reserve a unique name for your company through the RUN (Reserve Unique Name) service on the MCA portal.

The name should reflect the organization’s charitable purpose and comply with MCA naming guidelines.

Government Fee: ₹1,000 per application
Professional Fee (if applicable): ₹500–₹1,000
Time Required: 1–2 working days

Tip: It’s best to propose two names to avoid rejection delays.

Step 2: Digital Signatures (DSC) & Director Identification Number (DIN)

Every proposed director of the company must obtain a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) to sign e-documents and a Director Identification Number (DIN) from the MCA.

DSC Cost: ₹1,000–₹3,000 per director
DIN Application Fee: Nil (when applied through SPICe+ form)
Professional Fee: ₹500–₹1,000
Time Required: 1–3 working days

Usually, 2 directors are required for a private Section 8 company.

Step 3: Drafting of MOA, AOA & Legal Documentation

The Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA) define your company’s mission, rules, and governance structure.

Other documents like declarations (INC-14, INC-15), identity proofs, and address verification are also prepared at this stage.

Government Fee: Nil
Professional Fee: ₹3,000–₹7,000 (for legal drafting and compliance support)
Time Required: 2–3 working days

MOA should clearly mention that profits will be used only for the organization’s objectives.

Step 4: Filing with Registrar of Companies (ROC)

All prepared documents are filed through the SPICe+ (INC-32) form on the MCA portal, along with the MOA (INC-13), AOA, and required declarations.

The ROC verifies the documents before incorporation.

Government Filing Fees: ₹500 – ₹8,000 (varies by state and authorized capital)
Stamp Duty: Exempt – ₹2,500 (depending on state)
Professional Fee: ₹4,000–₹8,000
Time Required: 5–7 working days

Step 5: License under Section 8

Before issuing the Certificate of Incorporation, the ROC forwards your application to the Regional Director / Central Government for approval under Section 8 of the Companies Act.

Once approved, the ROC issues the license and Certificate of Incorporation.

Government Fee: Nil
Professional Fee: ₹2,000–₹4,000
Time Required: 7–10 working days

This license confirms your legal status as a non-profit company.

Step 6: Post-Registration Formalities

After incorporation, the following steps are required to make the company fully operational:

PAN & TAN Application: Usually processed automatically with SPICe+
GST Registration: Optional, required for service or revenue-based activities
Bank Account Opening: Mandatory for all financial transactions
Optional Registrations:
- 12AB & 80G (for tax exemptions)
- FCRA (for accepting foreign donations)

Typical Costs:

PAN/TAN: ₹150–₹300
GST Registration: ₹1,000–₹2,500 (professional fee)
12AB & 80G Registration: ₹5,000–₹10,000 (professional assistance)
Time Required: 10–15 working days

Apply for Section 8 Company Registration with expert guidance and complete the process in 10–15 days.

For more detailed guidance, refer to Formation of Companies with Charitable Objects under Section 8.

How Do State-Specific Charges Affect Section 8 Company Registration Cost?

Registering a Section 8 Company involves costs that are not the same across all states in India. While government and professional fees are generally consistent, certain charges, such as stamp duty, ROC filing fees, and notary costs, can vary significantly depending on the state.

Why Do Costs Differ by State?

Each state in India has its own regulations and fee structures that affect Section 8 Company registration. These variations are primarily seen in stamp duty, ROC filing fees, and miscellaneous charges.

Stamp Duty: The state government sets rates for stamping the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA). States like Delhi and Karnataka often offer full exemptions for Section 8 Companies, while others, like Maharashtra, charge a nominal fee.
ROC Filing Fees: Charges for filing incorporation documents with the Registrar of Companies (ROC) may vary depending on the authorized capital and the state of registration.
Notary / Miscellaneous Charges: Costs for notarization, affidavits, document printing, and courier services can also differ across states.

Tip: Being aware of state-specific fees can help in budgeting and selecting the most cost-effective registration location.

Sample State Comparisons

The following table provides a comparison of typical fees in key states, including stamp duty, ROC filing fees, and professional charges. This helps illustrate how costs can vary across India.

State	Stamp Duty (Approx.)	ROC / Filing Fees (Approx.)	Professional Fees (Approx.)	Total Estimated Cost	Notes
Delhi	₹0	₹2,000	₹2,999	₹4,999	Full stamp duty exemption; very cost-effective
Maharashtra	₹500	₹2,831	₹13,008	₹17,339	ROC fees slightly higher; stamp duty paid via e-bond system
Karnataka	₹0	₹2,000	₹15,999	₹17,999	Full stamp duty exemption; professional fees are higher due to comprehensive services
West Bengal	₹0 – ₹1,000	₹2,000 – ₹2,500	₹12,000 – ₹15,000	₹14,000 – ₹18,500	Partial stamp duty waiver for Section 8 companies
Tamil Nadu	₹500 – ₹1,500	₹2,000 – ₹2,500	₹12,000 – ₹15,000	₹14,500 – ₹18,500	Minor variations for document certification and notary charges

Note: Costs are indicative and may vary based on authorized capital, number of directors, and professional service providers.

Impact on Total Cost

State-specific charges can significantly impact the overall registration cost. Even a small difference in stamp duty or ROC fees can change the total budget by ₹1,000–₹3,000 or more.

Professional Fees: While largely consistent, professional service providers may bundle additional services like GST registration, 12A/80G applications, and FCRA compliance, which can increase the cost but save time and effort.
Strategic Planning: NGOs and social enterprises should compare state-specific charges and service providers before deciding on a registration location to optimize costs.
Budgeting Tip: States like Delhi and Karnataka, with full stamp duty exemptions, are often more cost-effective, especially for small organizations or start-ups with limited budgets.

Tip: Always verify the latest fee structures with the MCA portal or the local ROC office, as fees are subject to change.

What are the Best Practices to Minimize Section 8 Company Registration Costs and Delays?

Registering a Section 8 Company can be time-consuming and costly if not carefully planned. By following strategic best practices, NGOs, non-profits, and social enterprises can reduce unnecessary expenses, avoid process delays, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. Below are key practices with detailed explanations and actionable tips.

1. Optimizing MOA/AOA Drafting and Documentation

Accurate and precise Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA) drafting is crucial because these documents define your company’s objectives, governance rules, and compliance obligations. Errors or ambiguities can lead to rejections, multiple revisions, and extended timelines, which increase both professional and government costs.

Clearly Define Objectives: State your organization’s charitable, social, or non-profit objectives in a way that aligns with Section 8 requirements. Avoid vague language that could trigger additional clarifications from authorities.
Follow MCA Templates: Use MCA-approved templates as a base, but customize them to reflect your organization’s mission and operational model.
Check Supporting Documents: Ensure all identity proofs, address proofs, affidavits, and declarations are consistent and accurate. Minor mismatches can delay ROC approval.
Digital Copies Ready: Maintain scanned copies of all documents to facilitate quick resubmissions if authorities request corrections.

Example: A minor error in the objectives section of the MOA caused a 2-week delay and an extra professional fee of ₹2,000 for correction.

2. Choosing the Right State Jurisdiction

Government fees such as stamp duty, ROC filing charges, and notary fees vary across states. Selecting the optimal state can significantly reduce total registration costs while ensuring smoother processing.

Compare Stamp Duty Exemptions: States like Delhi, Karnataka, and West Bengal provide full or partial stamp duty exemptions for Section 8 Companies.
Check ROC Filing Fees: ROC filing fees depend on authorized capital and vary slightly by state. Knowing the exact rates prevents surprises.
Consider Operational Convenience: Proximity to your operational base or stakeholders can simplify follow-ups or document verification.
Evaluate Professional Services Availability: Some states have more experienced consultants who can handle end-to-end registration and post-registration compliance efficiently.

Insight: Choosing a state with stamp duty exemptions can save up to ₹2,000–₹3,000, especially for small NGOs with limited budgets.

3. Efficient Coordination Between Legal, Accounting, and Secretarial Services

Lack of coordination among legal, accounting, and company secretarial teams often leads to repeated submissions, document mismatches, and process delays, which in turn increase costs.

Central Checklist: Maintain a checklist of all required documents, fees, and timelines. This ensures nothing is missed during submission.
Single Point of Contact: Appoint one person responsible for coordinating between all service providers to reduce miscommunication.
Regular Updates: Schedule weekly or bi-weekly reviews of the registration progress with your team and consultant.
Digital Documentation: Keep all documents scanned and organized in folders ready for online submission to reduce time lost in physical delivery.

Example: A non-profit coordinated weekly with its consultant, completing all corrections in 2 days rather than 2 weeks, saving professional fees and accelerating the license approval.

4. Using Experienced Consultants vs DIY Trade-Offs

NGOs can choose to register a Section 8 Company with professional consultants or attempt a DIY approach via the MCA portal. Each approach has pros and cons regarding cost, risk, and time.

Pros of Hiring Experienced Consultants:

Expertise in MOA/AOA drafting, ROC filing, and Section 8 license approval.
Minimize risk of rejections or additional submissions, reducing professional and government costs.
Can manage post-registration compliance, including GST, PAN/TAN, 12A/80G, and FCRA applications.
Saves time, allowing the organization to focus on core activities.

Cons of DIY:

Initial cost savings, but higher risk of errors, which can cause delays, multiple filings, and extra charges.
Complex compliance requirements can be confusing and time-consuming, especially for first-time NGOs.
Limited guidance on state-specific rules, which may lead to mistakes in filing or missing exemptions.

Insight: For small NGOs or first-time social enterprises, hiring experienced consultants usually pays off in reduced delays and fewer compliance risks, even if initial fees are higher.

Registering a Section 8 Company involves government fees, professional charges, and optional compliance costs, with total expenses typically ranging from ₹14,000 to ₹25,000. State-specific charges like stamp duty and ROC filing fees, along with professional services for MOA/AOA drafting and post-registration compliance, are the major cost drivers. Optional registrations such as GST, 12A/80G, and FCRA can add extra costs.

To optimize expenses and avoid delays, NGOs should prepare all documents in advance, choose states with lower stamp duty and ROC fees, and consider hiring experienced consultants. Proper planning, accurate MOA/AOA drafting, and regular follow-ups with authorities can significantly reduce the chances of errors, resubmissions, and extended timelines.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the typical Section 8 company registration fees in India?

The section 8 company registration fees include government charges, stamp duty, and professional fees for drafting MOA/AOA and filing documents with the ROC. On average, these fees range between ₹14,000 and ₹25,000, depending on the state and complexity of the application. Additional costs may arise for post-registration compliance, like 12A/80G and GST registration. Understanding these fees helps NGOs budget accurately.

2. How much do Section 8 microfinance company registration fees cost?

Registering a Section 8 Microfinance Company involves similar steps as a regular Section 8 Company, but may include additional documentation to comply with microfinance regulations. Section 8 microfinance company registration fees typically range from ₹20,000 to ₹30,000, including professional charges for legal drafting and filing. State-specific stamp duty and ROC fees may slightly increase the total cost.

3. Are there differences in registration fees for Section 8 Company across states?

Yes, registration fees for Section 8 Company vary by state due to differences in stamp duty, ROC filing charges, and notary costs. States like Delhi and Karnataka often offer full stamp duty exemptions, making registration more cost-effective. Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu may charge nominal fees, increasing total expenses slightly. NGOs should check state-specific charges before filing.

4. What factors determine the Section 8 company registration cost?

The Section 8 company registration cost depends on government fees, professional services, authorized capital, and the number of directors. Optional services such as GST, 12A/80G, and FCRA registrations also add to the total cost. Delays in document submission or corrections in the MOA/AOA can increase professional fees. Choosing the right state and hiring experienced consultants can optimize expenses.

5. How much are legal fees for Section 8 company registration in India?

Legal fees for Section 8 Company registration cover drafting the MOA, AOA, declarations, and handling ROC filings. Depending on the consultant or law firm, fees typically range from ₹10,000 to ₹25,000. These fees ensure compliance with Section 8 objectives and help avoid errors that could delay approval. Experienced legal support can save both time and extra charges.

6. What does the Section 8 company registration charges in India include?

Section 8 company registration charges in India include MCA government fees, DSC/DIN costs, ROC filing fees, professional service charges, and optional post-registration compliance costs. Notary and courier fees also add to the total. The combined charges typically range between ₹14,000 and ₹25,000 but may vary depending on the state and complexity of the company.

7. Can the Section 8 company registration fees change after filing?

Yes, section 8 company registration fees can increase if additional documents are required, filings need to be corrected, or delays occur during processing. Professional service providers may charge extra for extended timelines or resubmissions. Early preparation, accurate documentation, and experienced guidance help avoid unexpected fee hikes.

8. Do section 8 microfinance company registration fees include post-incorporation compliance?

Typically, section 8 microfinance company registration fees cover only the incorporation process. Optional post-registration compliance, such as 12A/80G certification, GST registration, and FCRA approval, incurs additional charges. Including these in the budget upfront ensures smooth operations and avoids delays in fundraising or donor contributions.

9. Is there a difference between registration fees for Section 8 Company and normal private company registration?

Yes, registration fees for Section 8 Companies are generally lower than regular private company registration because Section 8 Companies often enjoy stamp duty exemptions. Additionally, ROC filing fees may be reduced. However, legal drafting and professional charges can be higher due to compliance with non-profit objectives and licensing under Section 8.

10. How can NGOs reduce section 8 company registration cost without compromising compliance?

NGOs can lower section 8 company registration costs by selecting states with full or partial stamp duty exemptions, preparing accurate MOA/AOA documents, and hiring experienced consultants who can prevent errors. Coordinating all directors for quick approvals and using integrated MCA services like SPICe+ reduces delays and extra charges, ensuring smooth registration within budget.

11. Is GST registration mandatory for Section 8 Companies?

GST registration is not mandatory for all Section 8 Companies but is required if the company provides taxable goods or services exceeding the turnover threshold (₹40 lakh for goods, ₹20 lakh for services). Voluntary registration is also possible for availing input tax credit and enhancing credibility with donors and vendors.

12. Can a Section 8 Company receive foreign funding?

Yes, Section 8 Companies can receive foreign funding under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA). Approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs is required to legally receive foreign donations. Proper compliance ensures smooth receipt and utilization of foreign funds.

13. How much time does Section 8 Company registration take in India?

Registration typically takes 15–30 working days if all documents are correctly submitted. Delays may occur due to corrections in the MOA/AOA or pending approvals from the ROC. Hiring professional support and ensuring accurate documentation can expedite the process.