A public limited company is a company under the Companies Act, 2013 that needs at least seven members and three directors, has freely transferable shares, and can raise capital from the public by listing. It is incorporated through SPICe+ like a private company but faces stricter compliance, including independent directors and committees once thresholds are met.
When to choose a public company
- Plans to list on a stock exchange
- Large number of shareholders
- Regulated sectors that require public company form, such as Nidhi or certain finance businesses
Registration process
- DSC and DIN for directors.
- Name reservation through SPICe+ Part A.
- SPICe+ Part B with e-MoA, e-AoA and AGILE-PRO-S.
- Certificate of incorporation.
- File INC-20A and meet commencement requirements.
Compliance differences from private companies
- Stricter rules on loans to directors and related party transactions
- Independent directors and committees above thresholds
- Secretarial audit above thresholds
- More detailed disclosures and restrictions on managerial remuneration
Short on time? Leegal can handle Public Limited Company Registration for you, end to end.
Get expert help →Path to listing
Listing requires meeting SEBI eligibility norms, appointing merchant bankers, filing an offer document and obtaining exchange approvals. SME platforms offer a route for smaller companies.
Frequently asked questions
Can a private company convert to public?
Yes, by passing a special resolution, altering its articles, meeting the minimum member and director requirements, and filing with the ROC.
Is a public limited company always listed?
No. Many public companies are unlisted. Listing is optional and requires a public issue or direct listing process.
Is minimum capital required?
No minimum paid-up capital is prescribed under the Companies Act, though specific sectors and stock exchanges have their own requirements.
How many directors must be independent?
Listed companies and public companies above specified thresholds must appoint independent directors, generally at least one-third for listed companies.
Let Leegal handle your Public Limited Company Registration
Documentation, filing and follow-up by a dedicated expert, so you can focus on running your business.
- Dedicated point of contact
- Transparent pricing
- Pan-India service