Microfinance Company Registration in India enables institutions to provide small-ticket loans and financial services to low-income individuals, SHGs, and micro-entrepreneurs. Microfinance institutions operate under the regulatory framework of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and play a vital role in financial inclusion.
In this Saving Mantra guide, we explain what a Microfinance Company is and provide a step-by-step process for Microfinance Company Registration in India, including eligibility, capital requirements, documents, and post-registration compliance.
What is a Microfinance Company?
A Microfinance Company, commonly registered as NBFC–MFI, is a Non-Banking Financial Company that provides micro-loans to economically weaker sections, small borrowers, and self-help groups. These loans are generally unsecured and aimed at income-generating activities.
Regulatory Authority for Microfinance Companies
- Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
- Governed under the RBI Act, 1934 and RBI’s Microfinance regulatory framework
Types of Microfinance Structures in India
- NBFC–MFI (Most common and regulated form)
- Section 8 Company (Non-profit, limited lending)
- Trust or Society (Non-profit, limited scope)
(NBFC–MFI offers the widest operational flexibility and scalability)
Eligibility Criteria for NBFC–MFI Registration
To register as a Microfinance Company (NBFC–MFI), the applicant must:
- Be incorporated as a Private or Public Limited Company
- Have minimum Net Owned Fund (NOF) of ₹10 crore
- Ensure 85% of net assets qualify as microfinance loans
- Follow RBI’s borrower income and loan size limits
- Promoters and directors must be fit and proper
Benefits of Microfinance Company Registration
- Legal authority to provide micro-loans
- RBI-regulated credibility and trust
- Access to institutional funding and investors
- Ability to expand across India
- Contribution to financial inclusion
- Structured governance and compliance
Step-by-Step Process for Microfinance Company Registration in India
Step 1: Incorporate a Company
Register a Private Limited or Public Limited Company under the Companies Act, 2013 with lending as the main object.
Step 2: Arrange Minimum Capital
Infuse the required Net Owned Fund (₹10 crore) and obtain a CA-certified net worth certificate.
Step 3: Open Bank Account & Park Capital
Deposit the NOF in the company’s bank account as required by RBI.
Step 4: Prepare RBI Documentation
Prepare key documents including:
- Business plan (3–5 years)
- Fair Practices Code
- Credit policy and risk management policy
- KYC & AML policy
- Board resolutions
Step 5: File Online Application with RBI
Submit the NBFC–MFI application on RBI’s COSMOS portal and obtain the CARN number.
Step 6: Submit Physical Documents to RBI
Submit a physical copy of the application set to the RBI regional office.
Step 7: RBI Due Diligence & Clarifications
RBI reviews promoter background, capital adequacy, governance, and compliance readiness.
Step 8: Grant of NBFC–MFI Certificate of Registration
Upon approval, RBI issues the Certificate of Registration (CoR) to operate as a Microfinance Company.
Documents Required for Microfinance Company Registration
- Certificate of Incorporation
- MOA & AOA
- PAN Card of company
- Audited financials and net worth certificate
- Director & shareholder KYC
- Detailed business plan
- Policies as per RBI guidelines
Timeline for Microfinance Registration
- Typically 6 to 9 months, depending on RBI scrutiny and document completeness
Post-Registration Compliance
- Periodic RBI returns and reporting
- Adherence to microfinance lending norms
- Statutory and internal audits
- Maintenance of capital adequacy
- Compliance with KYC, AML, and Fair Practices Code
Penalty for Operating Without Registration
Operating microfinance activities without RBI approval can lead to:
- Heavy monetary penalties
- Business shutdown
- Legal action under RBI Act
Why Choose Saving Mantra for Microfinance Company Registration?
- RBI-focused NBFC and MFI expertise
- End-to-end incorporation and licensing support
- Accurate documentation and liaison with RBI
- Transparent and affordable pricing
- Ongoing compliance and advisory services
Conclusion
Microfinance Company Registration in India is a regulated but rewarding pathway to serve underserved communities while building a scalable financial institution. By following the correct step-by-step Microfinance Company registration process, promoters can obtain RBI approval and operate legally with confidence. Saving Mantra ensures a smooth, compliant, and professional Microfinance Company registration experience.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. RBI norms, capital requirements, and microfinance regulations may change from time to time. Readers are advised to consult qualified professionals before applying for Microfinance Company Registration or commencing lending operations.