If you want to start an LLP in India, this is a great choice. It gives you limited liability protection plus easy management. It’s simpler than many other business types.
LLP registration in India happens fully online on the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) portal. This makes it simple for professionals, startups, consultants, and service businesses to get started.
In this guide, we explain the full LLP registration process in India. We cover who can apply, the main steps, needed documents, what to do after registration, and more. You can register LLP on your own or learn about LLP company registration in India. Just follow the official MCA rules for a smooth process. All processes are handled via LLP Registration Online.
What is a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)?
A Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) is a body corporate governed by the Limited Liability Partnership Act, 2008. It combines the benefits of a partnership (flexible management and profit-sharing) with limited liability (partners’ personal assets are generally protected from business debts and obligations, except in cases of personal fraud or wrongful acts).
Key features that make many choose to start an LLP:
- Separate legal entity with perpetual succession
- Limited liability for partners
- No restriction on the number of partners
- Flexible internal governance via the LLP Agreement
- Easier entry/exit for partners compared to traditional partnerships
For official details on the governing law, refer to the LLP Act, 2008, available on the MCA website: https://www.mca.gov.in/content/mca/global/en/acts-rules/llp-act-2008.html (search for LLP Act).
This structure is popular for LLP company registration in India among professionals like chartered accountants, lawyers, consultants, and small enterprises.
Eligibility Criteria to Process a Registered LLP in India
To register LLP in India, meet these basic requirements as per MCA guidelines:
- Minimum of 2 partners (no upper limit)
- At least 2 designated partners, with at least one being a resident of India (residing in India for at least 120 days in the previous calendar year)
- Partners can be individuals (Indian or foreign nationals/NRIs) or body corporates
- No minimum capital contribution is mandated
- A registered office address in India is required (can be residential or commercial)
Foreign nationals/NRIs can participate, subject to FDI policy compliance if applicable. For more on foreign investment in LLPs, check RBI guidelines referenced via MCA resources.
Step-by-Step LLP Registration Process in India
The LLP registration process in India is entirely digital via the MCA portal. Here’s the official flow to register LLP:
Step 1: Obtain Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
All designated partners must have a Class 3 DSC from government-recognized certifying authorities (e.g., eMudhra, Sify). DSC is essential for signing electronic forms securely. This step enables LLP Registration Online.
Step 2: Designated Partner Identification Number (DPIN/DIN)
Designated partners need a DPIN (now integrated as DIN for most cases). If not already held, apply through the incorporation form itself.
Step 3: Name Reservation via RUN-LLP
Reserve a unique name ending with “LLP” or “Limited Liability Partnership” using the RUN-LLP service on the MCA portal. Submit 1-2 proposed names. The system checks availability against existing trademarks, companies, and LLPs.
Official link: MCA RUN-LLP Service.
Step 4: File Incorporation Application – Form FiLLiP
This is the core form for LLP registration in India. Form FiLLiP (Form for Incorporation of Limited Liability Partnership) is an integrated online form filed on the MCA portal to initiate the LLP incorporation process.
Step 5: MCA Verification and Approval
The Registrar of Companies (RoC) reviews the application. Upon approval, you receive the Certificate of Incorporation along with the LLPIN (LLP Identification Number), making your LLP a legal entity.
Step 6: Execute and File the LLP Agreement
Form 3 Draft the LLP Agreement (outlining roles, profit-sharing, rights, duties, etc.) on appropriate stamp paper as per state rules. File it electronically via Form 3 within 30 days of incorporation. This is mandatory to finalize registration.
This paperless LLP registration process in India allows you to start an LLP efficiently from anywhere, including Ahmedabad.
Checklist of Documents Required for LLP Registration in India
Prepare and upload scanned copies (PDF format) during the filing of Form FiLLiP. Documents are mainly for partners, designated partners, and the registered office.
A. Documents for Partners / Designated Partners (All Partners)
- PAN Card (mandatory for all Indian partners/residents)
- Identity Proof (any one): Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport, Driving License
- Residence Proof (any one, not older than 2 months where applicable): Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport, Driving License, Utility Bill (electricity/gas/telephone/water), Bank Statement
- Passport-size Photographs (recent)
- For Foreign Nationals / NRIs: Passport (notarized / apostilled), address proof from abroad, visa/OCI/PIO card details (if applicable), and compliance with FDI/RBI norms if foreign investment is involved
B. Documents for Registered Office Proof
- Proof of Address (not older than 2 months): Utility bill (electricity, gas, telephone, water, or property tax receipt)
- Rent Agreement / Lease Deed (if rented premises)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the property owner/landlord (on plain paper or letterhead)
- Ownership Proof (if owned): Property tax receipt, sale deed copy, or similar
C. Other Mandatory / Supporting Documents
- Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) – Class 3 for all designated partners (obtained from certifying authorities like eMudhra, Sify, etc.)
- Consent of Designated Partners to act in that capacity (in prescribed format, often part of FiLLiP attachments)
- Declaration by Partners (affirming eligibility and no disqualifications)
- LLP Agreement (drafted and executed on stamp paper – filed later via Form 3)
Tips for Checklist
- All documents must be clear, legible, and self-attested where required.
- Foreign documents may need apostille/notarization.
- Upload size limits and formats are specified on the MCA portal during filing.
Key MCA Forms for LLP Registration and Incorporation
The LLP registration process in India primarily uses these core e-forms (all filed online with DSC):
- RUN-LLP (Reserve Unique Name – LLP) Purpose: To reserve/approve the proposed LLP name (ends with “LLP” or “Limited Liability Partnership”). Submit 1–2 name options; MCA checks availability against existing names and trademarks. Official page: MCA RUN-LLP
- Form FiLLiP (Form for Incorporation of Limited Liability Partnership) Purpose: Main incorporation application – this is the primary form to register the LLP. It covers:
- Name (if not pre-reserved via RUN-LLP)
- Details of partners and designated partners
- DPIN/DIN allotment (if not already held)
- Registered office address
- Capital contribution details
- Attachments: All documents from the checklist above Upon approval, MCA issues the Certificate of Incorporation and LLPIN.
- Form 3 (Information regarding the LLP Agreement and changes there to): Form 3 is filed to submit the LLP Agreement and to report any subsequent changes made to it. It must be filed with the MCA within the prescribed timeline to ensure legal validity of the agreement and compliance with LLP regulations.
These three (RUN-LLP, FiLLiP, Form 3) form the core registration sequence.
Other Important LLP Forms (Post-Registration / Ongoing)
After successful registration, use these for compliances and changes:
- Form 4: Notice of change in partners / designated partners (addition, resignation, DPIN changes, etc.)
- Form 5: Notice for change of LLP name
- Form 8: Statement of Account and Solvency (annual filing)
- Form 11: Annual Return of LLP (details of partners and contributions)
For the full list of LLP e-forms, visit: MCA LLP e-Filing.
Note: Always file with valid DSC, pay applicable government fees online, and track status via the MCA portal. Errors in documents or forms can lead to resubmission or rejection.
Post-Registration Compliances After You Register LLP
Once you register LLP in India and receive the Certificate of Incorporation:
- Apply for PAN and TAN in the LLP’s name
- Open a current bank account using incorporation certificate and PAN
- Register under GST if your turnover exceeds the threshold or for interstate supplies
- File annual returns: Form 11 (Annual Return of Partners) and Form 8 (Statement of Account and Solvency)
- Maintain proper books of accounts
- Comply with income tax filing and any applicable audits
For ongoing forms, explore the full LLP e-Filing section: MCA LLP e-Filing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in the LLP Registration Process in India
- Submitting non-unique or trademark-conflicting names
- Incomplete or mismatched document uploads
- Delaying Form 3 (LLP Agreement) filing beyond the deadline
- Overlooking the requirement for at least one resident designated partner
- Ignoring state-specific stamp duty rules for the LLP Agreement
Double-check everything on the MCA portal to ensure smooth LLP Registration Online.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Choosing LLP Structure
Advantages:
- Limited liability protection for partners
- Flexible management without rigid board meetings
- Easier to start an LLP compared to companies
- Perpetual succession and separate legal status
Disadvantages:
- Cannot issue shares or easily raise equity funding
- Partners remain liable for their own acts of negligence/fraud
- Mandatory annual MCA filings
Weigh these factors before deciding to register LLP.
Conclusion: Ready to Start an LLP in India
LLP registration in India is a straightforward, entrepreneur-friendly process under the MCA framework. By following these steps—from DSC to Form FiLLiP and Form 3 you can successfully register LLP in India and start an LLP for your professional or business venture.
For the most accurate and updated information, always visit the official MCA portal: www.mca.gov.in. To ensure a smooth and customized LLP company registration in India application, connect with FinGuru India for expert guidance and end-to-end support
