Company Search / Director Search (Public)
Quick Answer
Company Search / Director Search (Public) is a digital tool that allows anyone to access publicly available records of companies and directors registered with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). This service helps verify the legal status, registered address, directors' details, and financial filings of a company.
Company Search / Director Search (Public) — detailed explanation below
Governing Act — Company Search / Director Search (Public)
The Company Search / Director Search (Public) is governed by the Companies Act, 2013, which mandates that certain company and director information be maintained as public records. The MCA maintains the electronic registry under the Act, and the public can access these records through the MCA21 portal.
Government Department & Website for Company Search / Director Search (Public)
The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) is the government department responsible for maintaining company records. The official portal for conducting a Company Search / Director Search (Public) is www.mca.gov.in. The MCA21 system provides free and paid search options.
Company Search / Director Search (Public) Application Process
To perform a Company Search / Director Search (Public), visit the MCA portal and navigate to the 'MCA Services' section. For a company search, enter the Company Identification Number (CIN) or company name. For a director search, enter the Director Identification Number (DIN) or name. The system displays the available public records. No application form is required; it is a direct online query.
Key Forms Required for Company Search / Director Search (Public)
No forms are required for a basic Company Search / Director Search (Public). However, to obtain certified copies of documents, you may need to file Form INC-28 (for company documents) or Form DIR-12 (for director details) with the MCA.
Eligibility Criteria for Company Search / Director Search (Public)
Any individual or entity can perform a Company Search / Director Search (Public) without any eligibility criteria. The records are public under the Companies Act, 2013. No registration or login is required for basic searches, though some advanced features may require a registered user account.
Timeline for Company Search / Director Search (Public)
The Company Search / Director Search (Public) is an instant online process. Results are displayed immediately upon submitting the search query. There is no waiting period.
Fees for Company Search / Director Search (Public)
The MCA prescribes the following fees for Company Search / Director Search (Public):
| Service | Fee (INR) |
|---|---|
| Basic company search (view master data) | Free |
| View financial statements or annual returns | ₹50 per document |
| View director details (basic) | Free |
| Certified copy of any document | ₹100 per page |
Note: Fees are subject to change as per MCA notifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Company Search / Director Search (Public)?
Company Search / Director Search (Public) is an online tool provided by the MCA to access public records of companies and directors registered in India. It allows users to verify registration status, directors, and financial filings.
How can I perform a Company Search / Director Search (Public) online?
You can perform a Company Search / Director Search (Public) by visiting the MCA portal (www.mca.gov.in) and entering the CIN or company name for a company search, or the DIN or director name for a director search.
Is Company Search / Director Search (Public) free?
Basic Company Search / Director Search (Public) is free. However, viewing detailed documents like financial statements or obtaining certified copies may incur nominal fees as prescribed by the MCA.
What information is available through Company Search / Director Search (Public)?
Through Company Search / Director Search (Public), you can access the company's registered address, directors' names and DINs, shareholding pattern, financial statements, annual returns, and charges.
Why is Company Search / Director Search (Public) important for due diligence?
Company Search / Director Search (Public) helps verify the legal existence and compliance status of a company, identify its directors, and assess financial health, which is crucial before entering into contracts or investments.
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