Blog
Step-by-Step Guide for Getting Your Company Name Approved in India
Starting a business in India is exciting, but before you print visiting cards or design a logo, there’s one crucial checkpoint—company name approval . Think of it as getting a birth certificate for your business. Without it, your company simply doesn’t exist in the eyes of the law.
What Does Company Name Approval Mean?
Company name approval is the official process where the government verifies and approves the name you want to register for your business. This ensures your chosen name is unique, lawful, and doesn’t clash with existing companies or trademarks.
Why Is Name Approval Mandatory?
It prevents confusion, protects intellectual property, and maintains transparency in the corporate ecosystem. In short, it keeps the business world neat, organized, and fair.
Legal Framework Governing Company Name Approval
Role of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA)
The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) is the authority responsible for regulating company registrations and approvals in India. All name approval applications go through the MCA portal.
Companies Act, 2013 – Key Provisions
The Companies Act, 2013 lays down the rules for company incorporation, including how names should be selected and approved.
Relevant Rules Under the Act
- Companies (Incorporation) Rules, 2014
- Trademark Act, 1999 (indirectly impacts name approval)
Types of Business Entities Requiring Name Approval
Private Limited Company
Most startups choose this structure due to limited liability and scalability.
Public Limited Company
Requires stricter compliance and is suitable for larger businesses.
One Person Company (OPC)
Perfect for solo entrepreneurs wanting corporate benefits.
LLP and Partnership Firms
LLPs require name approval via MCA, while partnerships follow state rules.
Importance of Choosing the Right Company Name
Branding and Market Perception
Your company name is your first impression. A strong name builds trust, recall, and credibility—like a firm handshake in a business meeting.
Legal Compliance and Risk Avoidance
A compliant name saves you from future legal disputes, rebranding costs, and trademark issues.
Key Rules for Selecting a Company Name in India
Naming Guidelines Issued by MCA
- Name should not be identical or similar to existing companies
- Must reflect the nature of business
- Should not be misleading or offensive
Words That Are Prohibited or Restricted
Words like “Bank,” “Insurance,” “Government,” or “National” need special approval.
Use of Abbreviations and Symbols
Avoid random abbreviations unless they clearly represent the business activity.
Common Reasons for Company Name Rejection
Similarity with Existing Company Names
Even minor spelling changes won’t work if the pronunciation is similar.
Use of Trademarked or Offensive Words
Trademark conflicts are one of the biggest rejection triggers.
Incorrect Business Activity Representation
If your name suggests an activity you don’t actually do, rejection is likely.
Step-by-Step Process to Get Company Name Approved
Step 1 – Brainstorm Unique Name Ideas
Create 3–5 unique names. Think brand-first, compliance-second.
Step 2 – Conduct Name Availability Check
Using MCA Portal
Check existing company names on the MCA website.
Trademark Search
Always do a trademark search to avoid future legal trouble.
Step 3 – Prepare for RUN or SPICe+ Application
Decide whether you want only name approval or full incorporation.
Step 4 – Filing RUN (Reserve Unique Name)
RUN allows you to reserve a company name before incorporation.
Step 5 – Name Approval via SPICe+ Form
SPICe+ is a combined form for name approval and company incorporation.
Step 6 – Responding to Resubmission or Clarification
If MCA asks for clarification, respond promptly with precise justification.
Documents and Information Required for Name Approval
Basic Business Details
- Proposed company names
- Type of company
- Registered office state
Proposed Objects of the Company
Clearly define what your company will do.
Timeline and Fees for Company Name Approval
Expected Processing Time
Usually 1–3 working days if everything is correct.
Government Fees Involved
- RUN: ₹1,000
- SPICe+: Included in incorporation fees
Tips to Increase Chances of Name Approval
Choosing Distinctive and Meaningful Names
Invented or coined words work best.
Aligning Name with Business Activity
Make sure the name clearly reflects what you do.
What to Do After Company Name Is Approved
Validity of Approved Name
Approved names are valid for 20 days (SPICe+) or 60 days (RUN).
Next Steps for Company Incorporation
Proceed with filing incorporation documents before expiry.
Difference Between RUN and SPICe+ for Name Approval
When to Use RUN
If you want name approval first and incorporation later.
When SPICe+ Is the Better Option
Best for faster, one-step company registration.
Professional Help vs DIY Name Approval
Benefits of Hiring Professionals
- Higher approval success
- Saves time and effort
- Avoids legal mistakes
Risks of Self-Filing
Small errors can lead to repeated rejections.
Mistakes to Avoid During Company Name Approval
Overlooking Trademark Conflicts
Always cross-check trademarks.
Using Generic or Vague Names
Generic names rarely get approved.
Conclusion
Getting your company name approved in India isn’t complicated—but it does require attention to detail. A well-thought-out, compliant, and distinctive name not only speeds up approval but also lays a strong foundation for your brand. Follow the steps carefully, avoid common mistakes, and your business will be off to a flying start.
FAQs
Q1. Can I submit more than one name for approval?
Yes, you can submit up to two names per application.
Q2. What happens if my company name is rejected?
You can resubmit with corrections or file a fresh application.
Q3. Is trademark registration mandatory before name approval?
Not mandatory, but highly recommended.
Q4. Can two companies have similar names in different states?
No, company names must be unique across India.
Q5. How long does company name approval last?
Between 20 to 60 days, depending on the application type.