Declaration of Registered Office (Form INC-22)
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Address Change
Declaration Of Registered Office After Incorporation Of Your Company
Starting a company in India is exciting, but there are some important steps to follow right after incorporation. One key task is declaring your company’s registered office. This is the official address where the government and other people can send important letters, notices, and legal documents to your business. It’s like your company’s official mailing address.
Under the Companies Act, 2013, every new company must have a registered office and notify the government about it soon after starting up. This helps keep things organized and ensures your company stays compliant with the law.
Why Does Your Company Need a Registered Office?
The registered office is more than just an address it’s the spot where your company receives all official communications. It could be your office, a rented space, or even the director’s home. The law says your company must have this address ready from the 30th day after incorporation, but you don’t need to declare it right away.
Declaring it proves to the Registrar of Companies (ROC) the government office that oversees companies that your business is real and active. It also shows the address is legitimate, so no one can fake it.
The Legal Basics: What Does the Law Say
Section 12 of the Companies Act, 2013, dictates the provisions for the Declaration of Registered Office. Here’s the simple version of its contents:
- Your company must have a registered office at all times, capable of receiving mail and notices.
- You must declare this address with the Registrar of Companies (RoC).
- The Declaration should be filed in Form INC 22 within 30 days from the date of incorporation of the Company.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Declare Your Registered Office
Don’t worry it’s mostly done online through the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) website. The form you use is called e-Form INC-22 (Notice of Situation or Change of Situation of Registered Office).
Documentation Required
- Sale Deed/Rent/Lease Agreement: If the property is owned, a sale deed or property tax receipt is required. However, if it’s a rented property, a rent/lease agreement (valid for at least 11 months) should be prepared. The Rent/Lease Agreement should be duly stamped as per the respective State’s Stamp Duty Rules.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Owner
- Latest Utility Bill (Electricity, Water, or Gas) in the owner’s name, not older than 2 months.
- Photo of Director: One photo of the director outside of the building with your company name board, and one inside showing furniture/setup.
Can You Change the Address Later?
The registered office address can be changed later after complying with the procedure given in the Companies Act, 2013, and applicable Rules.
What Happens If You Don’t Declare It on Time?
In the event of failure to declare the registered office, your company and every “officer in default” (like directors) may face a penalty of Rs. 1,000 per day of delay, up to a maximum of Rs. 1 lakh.
The Registrar of Companies may also visit your address for a check. If it’s fake or inactive, they could strike your company off the register (removing it from the active list).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I start a business in India as a foreign company?
Foreign companies can set up a liaison office, branch office, or wholly-owned subsidiary in India. Corpsecure assists with RBI, FEMA, and ROC compliances for a smooth entry.
What is the cost of company registration in India?
The cost depends on the type of company (Pvt Ltd, LLP, OPC, etc.) and government fees. On average, registration can start from ₹7,999 onwards with professional assistance.
How long does it take to register a company in India?
With proper documents, company registration can take 7–15 working days. Corpsecure ensures faster turnaround by managing documentation and compliance.