What is Partnership Firm?
A partnership firm is a business venture where several people join forces and decide that they will work together cooperatively. These individuals, known as partners, agree to share the profits and losses of the company according to a predetermined ratio or arrangement. The Indian Partnership Act of 1932 outlines specific regulations and guidelines that govern the operations and functioning of partnership firms. The partners sign a legal contract called a partnership deed.

Partnership Firms in India
The Indian Partnership Act of 1932 governs the establishment and operations of partnership firms. In India, there are numerous businesses spanning across various industries that have chosen to operate as partnership firms.At least two partners are needed to start a partnership, but there can’t be more than twenty partners. The partners in a partnership share the profits and losses of the business based on an agreed ratio decided when the firm is formed.
What is a Partnership Deed?
Starting a business partnership requires creating a partnership deed. This document is a vital formal agreement that lays out all the critical rules, responsibilities, and guidelines the partners must follow. It helps prevent misunderstandings or conflicts between partners by clearly defining each partner’s role and obligations from the very beginning.
A well-drafted partnership deed generally covers the following key points:
- The registered name and official address of the partnership company, along with the full names and residential addresses of every partner involved in the business venture.
- A comprehensive explanation of the particular business sector or industry the partnership will be operating within, accompanied by a detailed outline of its primary objectives.
- The predetermined duration for which the partnership will remain in effect, whether it’s for a fixed period or an indefinite time frame.
- The amount of initial capital investment each partner is required to contribute towards the business, as well as any provisions for additional investments in the future.
Documents for Partnership Firm Registration in India
Starting a partnership firm requires submitting several important documents for registration. The documentation needed includes:
- An application form for registration, known as Form 1
- A certified copy of the partnership deed
- An affidavit, a sworn written statement, certifying that all the details provided in the partnership deed and accompanying documents are accurate and truth
- PAN card along with evidence of address for the partners
- PAN card along with the evidence of address of the partnership
- Documentation for the main business place (ownership documents or rental and leasing agreement)
Procedure of Partnership Firm Registration in India
Step 1. Application for Registration
The initial step is to fill out Form 1 if you want to start a partnership firm in India. This form needs to be submitted to the Registrar of Firms in the state where your company will be located. Along with Form 1, you also need to provide all the necessary supporting documents that prove your firm’s details.
Submission of Documents:
Submit the following documents to the Registrar of Firms:
- Form No. 1 (duly filled and signed by all partners)
- Original partnership deed (signed and notarized)
- Affidavit declaring the intent to start a partnership firm
- Proof of the principal place of business (rent agreement, utility bills, etc.)
Step 2: Selection of Name of the Partnership Firm
One of the most exciting aspects of starting a new firm is selecting its name. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the name you choose is truly unique and doesn’t closely resemble an existing firm’s name or logo. Ultimately, your firm’s name should be distinct and memorable, setting it apart from the competition.
Step 3: Certificate of Registration
Once you’ve submitted all the required paperwork and fees, the Registrar will meticulously review your application materials. If everything is in order, they will officially register your firm and issue a Certificate of Registration – a momentous milestone in the life of your new business.

Partnership Firm Registration Fees
The cost of registering a partnership firm differs from state to state and mainly depends on the financial investment made by the partners. In most cases, the registration process is budget-friendly and can be conveniently carried out online through various professional service providers.
| Expense of Partnership Firm Registration | Estimated Cost (₹) |
| Stamp Duty | ₹2,000 |
| Registrar of Firms Fee | ₹1,000 |
| Notary Charges | ₹1,500 |
| Professional Fees | ₹10,000 |
| Miscellaneous Expenses | ₹1,000 |
The total fee for registering partnership firms in India is INR 15000 including government fee, professional fee and other costs. This total prices may vary in different states.
Official Government Websites for Partnership Firm Registration in India
To register a partnership firm in India, you need to visit the official website of the respective state’s Registrar of Firms or the Department of Industries and Commerce.
Here are some official government websites for a few major states:
Maharashtra
- Registrar of Firms, Maharashtra:
Website: Maharashtra – Registrar of Firms
Karnataka
- Department of Industries and Commerce, Karnataka:
Website: Karnataka – Registrar of Firms
Tamil Nadu
- Inspector General of Registration, Tamil Nadu:
Website: Tamil Nadu – Registrar of Firms
Delhi
- Department of Revenue, Government of NCT of Delhi:
Website: Delhi – Registrar of Firms
Gujarat
- Registrar of Firms, Gujarat:
Website: Gujarat – Registrar of Firms
Simple Steps for Online Registration of Partnership Firm
- Visit the Official Website: Go to the respective state’s Registrar of Firms website.
- Create an Account: Register yourself by creating an account on the portal.
- Fill in the Application Form: Complete the online application form for registering a partnership firm.
- Upload Documents: Upload the required documents, such as the partnership deed, proof of address, and identity proof of partners.
- Pay the Fees: Pay the applicable registration fees online through the portal.
- Submit the Application: Submit the application and keep a copy of the acknowledgment for future reference.
- Verification and Approval: The Registrar of Firms will verify the application and documents. Once approved, you will receive the Certificate of Registration.
Partnership Firm Registration Certificate Download
You can get the Certificate of Registration from the website of the Registrar of Firms in your state post your completion of registration process. This official document serves as evidence that your firm has been legally established and recognized. Having this certificate is crucial for various business operations.
List Partnership Firms in India
Here are the list of top 10 Partnership Firms in India
- Tata Sons
- Infosys Limited
- Reliance Industries
- Wipro Limited
- HDFC Bank
- ICICI Bank
- Larsen & Toubro
- ITC Limited
- M & M
- Aditya Birla

Conclusion
Starting a partnership business is a straightforward and useful option for people who want to work together, share duties, and split profits. Even though it’s not required by law, registering your partnership can provide significant legal benefits and make your company look more credible. Learning about the registration steps, needed paperwork, and potential advantages can help partners set up a firm that runs smoothly while following all legal rules.
A partnership company is a business organization made by two or more people coming together. These individuals mutually decide to work as co-owners and split the gains and losses based on an agreed share.
The three types of partnership firms are General Partnership, Limited Partnership, Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
Any person who is considered legally capable of making agreements and signing contracts can become a partner in a partnership company. This includes adults who are 18 years old or older and are not prohibited from entering into contracts by any law or regulation.
If a partnership firm is not registered, it can’t:
File a lawsuit against third parties or partners in its own name.
Bring about its claims in court.
Unregistered firms are at a disadvantage in dispute resolution and their legal interests are not well covered.
