Starting an NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) is a powerful way to make a difference in society. Whether you aim to support education, healthcare, the environment, or any other cause, establishing an NGO gives your mission a legal identity. However, to operate legally and access benefits like government grants or foreign funding, NGO registration is essential.
This article will walk you through the step-by-step process of NGO registration in India, the different types of structures available, required documents, and important legal aspects.
What is NGO Registration?
NGO registration is the legal process of giving formal recognition to a non-profit organization. Once registered, the NGO can open a bank account, own assets, receive grants, and function as a separate legal entity. It also ensures accountability, transparency, and eligibility for tax exemptions and funding from government or private agencies.
Types of NGO Registration in India
Before you begin the process, you must decide the legal structure of your NGO. In India, NGOs can be registered under three main types:
1. Trust
Registered under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882, this is ideal for small-scale, family-run charitable organizations. Trusts are governed by a board of trustees.
2. Society
Registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, societies are best for NGOs with a larger group of people or members working toward a common social goal.
3. Section 8 Company
Registered under the Companies Act, 2013, a Section 8 Company is suited for large NGOs needing strong governance and credibility. This type is regulated by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) and offers more transparency.
The structure you choose will determine the complexity and formalities involved in your NGO registration.
Step-by-Step Guide to NGO Registration
Step 1: Decide the Purpose and Name of the NGO
Clearly define your NGO's mission and objectives. Choose a unique name that reflects your cause and is not already registered by another entity. Verify name availability depending on the registration type.
Step 2: Choose the Type of Registration
Decide whether your NGO will be a Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company. This depends on your scale of operations, target audience, and long-term vision.
Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents
The documents required for NGO registration vary slightly depending on the type of organization but generally include:
Identity proof of founders (Aadhaar/PAN/Voter ID)
Address proof of office (utility bill or rent agreement)
Passport-size photos of all members
Name and objectives of the NGO
Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Rules & Regulations (for Society)
Trust Deed (for Trust)
Articles and Memorandum of Association (for Section 8 Company)
Step 4: Draft Legal Documents
Depending on the type, prepare the necessary legal documents:
Trust Deed for a Trust
MOA and Rules & Regulations for a Society
MOA and AOA (Articles of Association) for a Section 8 Company
Ensure the documents are notarized and signed by all founding members.
Step 5: Apply for Registration
For Trust:
Submit the Trust Deed and KYC documents to the local Sub-Registrar office. After verification, the trust will be registered, and a registration certificate will be issued.
For Society:
Apply with the State Registrar of Societies by submitting the MOA, rules, and identity/address proofs of at least seven members from different states. A registration certificate will be issued upon approval.
For Section 8 Company:
Apply online through the MCA (Ministry of Corporate Affairs) portal. This includes:
Reserving the company name via the RUN form
Filing the INC-12 form for license
Filing SPICe+ forms for incorporation
Once approved, the NGO receives a Certificate of Incorporation and a license to operate as a Section 8 Company.
Post NGO Registration Compliance
Once your NGO registration is complete, you must comply with the following requirements:
PAN and TAN application
Opening a bank account in the NGO’s name
12A and 80G registration for income tax exemption
FCRA registration (if you intend to receive foreign funds)
Filing annual reports and income-tax returns
Regular updates in government portals like NGO-DARPAN
Timely compliance keeps your NGO in good legal standing and improves your chances of receiving funding.
Benefits of NGO Registration
Legal recognition for your organization
Eligibility for government and CSR grants
Tax exemptions under 12A and 80G
Improved transparency and credibility
Ability to enter into contracts and own property
Access to national and international funding
Proper NGO registration builds trust among donors and beneficiaries and makes operations smoother.
How Many Members Are Required?
Trust: Minimum 2 trustees (no upper limit)
Society: Minimum 7 members (from different states if registering nationally)
Section 8 Company: Minimum 2 directors and shareholders
Each type of NGO registration has its own compliance and governance model.
Cost of NGO Registration
The cost of NGO registration varies depending on the type:
Trust: ₹4,000 – ₹10,000 (approx.)
Society: ₹5,000 – ₹12,000 (approx.)
Section 8 Company: ₹7,000 – ₹15,000 (approx., including government fees and legal assistance)
Hiring professional consultants can reduce errors and speed up the process.
Final Thoughts
If you are passionate about creating social change, starting an NGO can be a life-changing step. However, without proper NGO registration, your organization cannot function legally or receive funding. From choosing the right structure to preparing documents and complying with regulations, every step of NGO registration is crucial.
Take the time to plan your mission, understand legal requirements, and proceed with the right registration. If needed, consult professionals to assist with documentation and compliance.
A legally registered NGO not only makes a positive impact but also builds trust with donors, volunteers, and beneficiaries.
