SPICe+ Form: Revolutionizing Company Incorporation in India
SPICe+ (Simplified Proforma for Incorporating Company Electronically Plus) represents a paradigm shift in how companies are registered in India. Introduced by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) in February 2020, this integrated form consolidates multiple services that previously required separate filings, reducing the time and effort needed for company incorporation from weeks to just 7-10 days.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about SPICe+, from name reservation to obtaining your Certificate of Incorporation, along with linked services like PAN, TAN, EPFO, ESIC, and bank account opening.
Understanding SPICe+ Structure: Part A and Part B
Part A: Name Reservation
Part A handles the reservation of your company name. You can propose up to two names in order of preference. The system checks for name similarity, trademark conflicts, and compliance with naming guidelines.
- • Reserve up to 2 names in one application
- • Name approval valid for 20 days
- • Separate fees for Part A filing
- • Can be filed independently or with Part B
Part B: Incorporation Services
Part B is the comprehensive incorporation section that combines multiple services into a single application, eliminating the need for separate form filings.
- • Company Incorporation
- • DIN allotment for directors
- • PAN and TAN application
- • EPFO and ESIC registration
- • Professional Tax (Maharashtra)
- • Bank account opening
Eligibility and Company Types
SPICe+ can be used to incorporate various types of companies under the Companies Act, 2013. Understanding which companies can use this form helps you plan your incorporation strategy.
| Company Type | Eligibility | Special Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Private Limited | ✓ Eligible | Min 2 directors, 2 shareholders |
| One Person Company | ✓ Eligible | 1 director, 1 nominee |
| Section 8 Company | ✓ Eligible (separate process) | Prior license required (Form INC-12) |
| Producer Company | ✓ Eligible | 10+ producers/members |
| Public Limited | ✓ Eligible | Min 3 directors, 7 shareholders |
| Nidhi Company | ✗ Not eligible initially | Post-incorporation compliance |
Step-by-Step Filing Process
Login to MCA Portal
Access the MCA portal using your DSC (Digital Signature Certificate). Ensure your DSC is valid and registered on the portal. Business user login is required for filing SPICe+.
Navigate to SPICe+
Go to "Company Forms Download" or "Upload Forms" section. Download the SPICe+ form or file directly online through the web-based form.
Complete Part A - Name Reservation
Enter the proposed company names (up to 2) in order of preference. Provide the applicant details and submit Part A. If approved, proceed to Part B within 20 days.
Complete Part B - Incorporation Details
Enter comprehensive details including registered office, director information, share capital structure, subscriber details, and select linked services (PAN, TAN, EPFO, ESIC, etc.).
Prepare and Attach Documents
Upload MOA, AOA, identity/address proofs, registered office proof, declarations (INC-9, DIR-2), and interest in other entities (DIR-8). Ensure all documents are self-attested and properly scanned.
Digital Signature and Certification
All directors must digitally sign the form. A practicing professional (CA/CS/CMA) must certify that all requirements of the Companies Act have been complied with.
Pay Fees and Submit
Pay the requisite government fees based on authorized capital. Submit the form and note the Service Request Number (SRN) for tracking.
Document Checklist for SPICe+
Director Documents
- ☐ PAN Card (mandatory for Indian citizens)
- ☐ Aadhaar Card
- ☐ Passport (for NRI/Foreign directors)
- ☐ Passport-size photograph
- ☐ Address proof (Bank statement/Utility bill)
- ☐ DIR-2 (Consent to act as Director)
- ☐ DIR-8 (Declaration of interest)
- ☐ Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
Company Documents
- ☐ Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- ☐ Articles of Association (AOA)
- ☐ INC-9 (Declaration by subscribers)
- ☐ Registered office proof (Rent/Own)
- ☐ NOC from property owner
- ☐ Utility bill (not older than 2 months)
- ☐ Board resolution (if subscriber is a company)
- ☐ Authorization letters
Government Fees Structure
Government fees for SPICe+ depend on the authorized capital of the company. Here's the detailed fee structure:
| Authorized Capital | Fee (Private Ltd) | Fee (OPC) |
|---|---|---|
| Up to ₹1,00,000 | ₹2,000 | ₹2,000 |
| ₹1,00,001 - ₹5,00,000 | ₹2,000 + ₹200 per ₹10,000 | ₹2,000 + ₹200 per ₹10,000 |
| ₹5,00,001 - ₹10,00,000 | ₹10,000 + ₹100 per ₹10,000 | ₹10,000 + ₹100 per ₹10,000 |
| Above ₹10,00,000 | ₹15,000 + ₹75 per ₹10,000 | Not applicable |
Additional fees apply for Part A name reservation (₹1,000) and stamp duty varies by state.
Common Rejection Reasons
- ⚠️ Name similarity: Proposed name matches existing company or trademark
- ⚠️ Incomplete documents: Missing NOC, wrong address proof format
- ⚠️ DSC issues: Expired or unregistered digital signatures
- ⚠️ MOA/AOA errors: Incorrect clauses, inconsistent capital details
- ⚠️ Professional certification: Not signed by practicing CA/CS/CMA
Post-Incorporation Compliance
After successful incorporation through SPICe+, the company must complete these mandatory compliances:
Within 30 Days
- • Appointment of Auditor (ADT-1)
- • First Board Meeting
- • Declaration of Commencement (INC-20A)
Ongoing Compliance
- • Annual Return (MGT-7)
- • Financial Statements (AOC-4)
- • Income Tax Return
- • GST Returns (if registered)
Key Takeaways
Advantages of SPICe+
- ✓ Single form for 10+ services
- ✓ Reduced incorporation time (7-10 days)
- ✓ No separate form filings needed
- ✓ Integrated payment gateway
Important Reminders
- ✓ Valid DSC mandatory for all directors
- ✓ Professional certification required
- ✓ Name reservation valid for 20 days
- ✓ Ensure document accuracy before submission