How to Register an NGO Online in India

Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) play a vital role in India’s social, educational, charitable, and environmental development. From supporting underprivileged communities to working in healthcare, education, women empowerment, and rural development, NGOs act as a bridge between society and government initiatives.

If you are planning to start an NGO, the first and most important step is NGO registration. In this blog, we explain how to register an NGO online in India, the types of NGOs, documents required, step-by-step registration process, and post-registration compliances.

What Is an NGO?

An NGO (Non-Governmental Organisation) is a non-profit entity established to work for social welfare, charitable purposes, education, religion, healthcare, environment, or other public-benefit objectives. NGOs in India operate independently of the government but must comply with applicable laws and regulations.

NGOs are not allowed to distribute profits among members. Any surplus must be reinvested to achieve the organisation’s objectives.

Types of NGO Registration in India

In India, NGOs can be registered under three main legal structures:

1. Trust Registration

• Governed by the Indian Trusts Act, 1882 (or state trust laws)
• Suitable for charitable and religious activities
• Managed by trustees

2. Society Registration

• Registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860
• Ideal for educational, cultural, and social organisations
• Requires a minimum of 7 members

3. Section 8 Company Registration

• Registered under the Companies Act, 2013
• Best suited for large NGOs with structured operations
• Offers higher credibility and transparency

Each structure has its own benefits, compliance requirements, and registration process.

Can NGO Registration Be Done Online in India?

Yes, NGO registration can be done online in India. The extent of online processing depends on the type of NGO:

• Section 8 Company – Fully online through the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) portal
• Society Registration – Online or semi-online depending on the state
• Trust Registration – Mostly offline, but documentation and preparation can be done online

Eligibility Criteria for NGO Registration

To register an NGO in India:

• Members must be Indian citizens (for domestic NGOs)
• The organisation must have a charitable or social objective
• Profits must not be distributed among members
• A valid registered office address is required

Documents Required for NGO Registration Online

While documents vary based on NGO type, commonly required documents include:

Common Documents

• Identity proof of members (PAN, Aadhaar, Passport)
• Address proof of members
• Passport-size photographs
• Registered office address proof (utility bill, rent agreement, NOC)

Additional Documents (Based on Type)

For Trust:

• Trust Deed
• Details of trustees

For Society:

• Memorandum of Association (MOA)
• Rules & Regulations
• List of governing body members

For Section 8 Company:

• Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
• Director Identification Number (DIN)
• MOA & AOA
• INC-12 licence application

Step-by-Step Process to Register an NGO Online in India

Step 1: Decide the Type of NGO

Choose whether you want to register as a Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company based on your objectives, funding plans, and compliance capacity.

Step 2: Choose a Unique Name

Select a name that reflects your NGO’s objectives and does not violate trademark or naming guidelines.

Step 3: Prepare Legal Documents

Draft the Trust Deed, MOA, AOA, or Rules & Regulations as per the selected structure.

Step 4: Online Application Submission

• Section 8 Company: File online forms on the MCA portal
• Society: Apply via state society registration portal (where available)
• Trust: Prepare documents and submit before the local registrar

Step 5: Verification and Approval

Authorities review documents and may request clarifications. Once approved, the NGO registration certificate is issued.

Timeline for NGO Registration

• Trust Registration: 7–15 working days
• Society Registration: 10–20 working days
• Section 8 Company: 15–25 working days

Timelines may vary depending on state and documentation accuracy.

Post-Registration Compliances for NGOs

After registration, NGOs must comply with various statutory requirements:

• PAN and TAN registration
• Bank account opening
• Income Tax Return filing
• 12A and 80G registration for tax exemptions
• FCRA registration (if receiving foreign funds)
• Annual filings (for Section 8 Companies)

Benefits of Registering an NGO

• Legal recognition and credibility
• Eligibility for government grants and CSR funding
• Tax exemptions under Income Tax Act
• Ability to open bank accounts and receive donations
• Enhanced trust among donors and stakeholders

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Choosing the wrong NGO structure
• Poorly drafted MOA or Trust Deed
• Incomplete or incorrect documentation
• Ignoring post-registration compliances

Why Choose LegalInfinix for NGO Registration?

Registering an NGO requires legal precision and compliance expertise. LegalInfinix offers:

• Expert consultation on NGO structure selection
• Complete online registration support
• Drafting of legal documents
• PAN, 12A, 80G, and FCRA assistance
• Transparent pricing and end-to-end compliance support

NGO registration is the foundation for creating social impact legally and transparently. By understanding the right structure and following the correct registration process, you can establish your NGO without complications.

Planning to register an NGO online in India? Contact LegalInfinix today for smooth and hassle-free NGO registration.