LLP Registration Process in India — Complete Step-by-Step Guide
A Limited Liability Partnership combines a partnership's flexibility with a company's limited liability protection — and its registration process, while similar in spirit to a company's, has its own specific steps. Here's exactly how it works.
What you need before you start
An LLP needs a minimum of two designated partners, with at least one resident in India. There's no cap on the total number of partners, and no minimum capital contribution requirement.
Step 1: Name Reservation (RUN-LLP)
You propose an LLP name through the RUN-LLP service. The name must end with "LLP" or "Limited Liability Partnership," and it's checked against existing companies, LLPs and trademarks. If it's unique and compliant, approval usually comes within 1–2 working days.
Step 2: Digital Signatures & Documents
While the name is being processed, Digital Signature Certificates are arranged for each designated partner, along with their consent letters, subscriber sheets and identity/address proof.
Step 3: FiLLiP Filing
The Form for Incorporation of LLP (FiLLiP) is filed with the Registrar — this is the core incorporation form, covering partner details, the registered office, and the proposed business activity. It's usually filed within a day of having all documents ready, and the MCA typically approves it within 2–3 working days.
Step 4: Certificate of Incorporation, PAN & TAN
Once approved, you receive the Certificate of Incorporation, with PAN and TAN issued in the same filing.
Step 5: LLP Agreement (Form 3)
This is the step people most often forget. The LLP Agreement — covering profit-sharing ratios, partner responsibilities, and what happens if a partner exits — must be drafted, stamped (stamp duty varies by state), and filed as Form 3 within 30 days of incorporation. Skipping this leaves your LLP governed by the LLP Act's default rules, which are rarely what partners actually want.
Documents you'll need
- PAN card of all partners
- Aadhaar, passport, voter ID or driving licence of partners
- A recent bank statement, electricity bill or mobile bill for each partner
- Utility bill of the proposed registered office
- No-Objection Certificate from the property owner
- Rent agreement, if the office is rented
What typically causes delays
In practice, MCA processing itself is fast — most delays come from the applicant's side: a name that's too generic or close to an existing brand, an undisclosed existing DIN for a partner, an outdated registered-office proof, or a name/address mismatch across a partner's PAN, Aadhaar and bank records. Getting documents consistent and complete upfront is the single biggest thing you can do to keep the timeline to five working days.