Section 8 NGO Registration in India: Documents & Benefits (2025 Guide)

Do you intend to establish an NGO for social, educational, or charitable reasons? One of the most reliable and lawful ways to form a non-profit organisation in India is through a Section 8 Company.
In this article, we’ll go over the definition of a Section 8 NGO, the paperwork needed, its main advantages, and how Legal Darbar may assist you in completing the registration procedure efficiently.

What is a Section 8 Company?

A non-profit organisation registered under Section 8 of the Companies Act of 2013 is known as a Section 8 Company. It was established to encourage:

Giving to charity
Education
Culture and the arts
Research and science
Social welfare or religion
Protection of the environment
Any additional non-profit goal

A Section 8 Company does not share its revenues with its members like other businesses do. Rather, all revenue is utilised to further its goals.

Benefits of Registering a Section 8 NGO

Trust & Legal Recognition
Qualification for Tax Exemption
There is no minimum capital needed.
A distinct legal entity
Government Grant Access

Who Can Register a Section 8 NGO?

Any Indian individual or group
At least two directors and two stockholders, who may be the same people
A minimum of one director needs to reside in India.
The business needs to have a well-defined non-profit goal.

Documents Required for Section 8 Company Registration

For Directors/Shareholders

PAN Card
Aadhaar Card or Passport/Voter ID
Passport-size photographs
Address proof (bank statement, utility bill – not older than 2 months)

For Registered Office

Electricity or utility bill
Rent agreement (if rented)
NOC from owner

Registration Process (Through Legal Darbar)

Step 1: Evaluation and Consultation

We begin by determining the goal of your NGO and confirming that the documents are ready.
Website: https://legaldarbar.com/

Step 2: Using the RUN Form to approve the name

We assist MCA in filing the Reserve Unique Name (RUN) form. In addition to reflecting your objective, the name should conclude with “Foundation,” “Trust,” or “Association.”

Step 3: Submit DIN and DSC applications

We acquire each director’s Director Identification Number (DIN) and Digital Signature (DSC).

Step 4: Save the application for INC-12

To acquire the licence under Section 8, we draft and submit the INC-12 form to the Registrar of Companies (RoC).

Step 5: Send in the SPICe+ Incorporation Forms

We submit SPICe+ Parts A and B, the MoA (INC-13), the AoA (INC-31), and any other necessary attachments as soon as we have the license.

Step 6: Incorporation Certificate (COI)

Following approval, your NGO is prepared to legally operate as a Section 8 Company when the RoC issues your Certificate of Incorporation.

Conclusion:

The best way to legally run an NGO in India is to register a Section 8 Company. It provides legitimacy, organisation, and money and tax exemptions. Legal Darbar can help you launch a non-profit organisation (NGO) the right way, whether you’re establishing a school, assisting rural communities, or promoting environmental causes.