Thinking about starting an NGO in India? That’s amazing — the world truly needs more people like you! Whether you want to help underprivileged children, protect the environment, or support rural communities, your journey starts with one simple thing: getting the documents ready.
This guide by Green Vision Society will walk you through all the documents needed to register an NGO in India, with simple language and real help for first-time founders.
📑 Table of Contents
- Why Documentation is Important for NGOs
- Types of NGOs and Basic Legal Requirements
- List of Documents Required to Start an NGO
- Additional Documents for 12A and 80G
- Tips for a Smooth Registration Process
- FAQs
- Conclusion
💡 Why Documentation is Important for NGOs
Before doing any great work, you need your NGO to be legally recognized. Why?
- It helps you open a bank account
- You can receive donations and grants
- You gain public and government trust
- You can apply for tax exemptions and CSR funding
And all of that starts with your paperwork.
🏛️ Types of NGOs and Basic Legal Requirements
First, choose which type of NGO you want to register:
| Type of NGO | Law Governing It | Minimum Members |
|---|---|---|
| Trust | Indian Trusts Act, 1882 | 2 or more |
| Society | Societies Registration Act, 1860 | 7 or more |
| Section 8 Company | Companies Act, 2013 | 2 or more |
All three types need mostly the same core documents — but the format and submission process may vary slightly.
List of Documents Required to Start an NGO
Here’s the complete list of documents you’ll typically need for any NGO registration:
1. Identity Proof (Founders & Members)
- Aadhaar card / Voter ID / PAN card
- Passport (for NRI/foreign nationals, if any)
Tip: Use the same ID proof across all forms to avoid mismatch.
2. Address Proof of Members
- Electricity bill, water bill, ration card, etc.
3. Passport-size Photographs
- For all trustees/members/directors
4. Registered Office Address Proof
- Rent agreement (if rented)
- Property papers (if owned)
- Utility bill (within last 2 months)
- NOC from the landlord (if you’re using a rented space)
5. Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Explains the objectives and mission of your NGO.
6. Rules & Regulations / Trust Deed / Company Bylaws
- Explains how the NGO will function, how members are appointed, etc.
7. Declaration/Affidavit
- Declaring that the NGO’s income will be used only for charitable purposes.
📂 Additional Documents for 12A and 80G
If you want to get income tax exemption for your NGO and give tax benefits to your donors, you’ll need these extra documents:
- PAN card of the NGO
- Registration certificate of the NGO
- Trust deed / MOA / Bylaws
- Bank account statement
- Activity report or future activity plan
- List of board members with addresses
These documents are required to apply for 12A (income tax exemption) and 80G (donor tax benefit) through the Income Tax Department portal.
🧠 Tips for a Smooth Registration Process
- ✅ Keep scanned copies of every document in PDF/JPEG format.
- ✅ Get your documents notarized if needed.
- ✅ Use a professional name that reflects your mission.
- ✅ Double-check all spellings and ID numbers.
- ✅ Take help from a CA or legal advisor if it’s your first time.
❓ FAQs
Q1: Can I start an NGO without an office address?
👉 You need at least a residential or rented address with proper documents.
Q2: What if a member doesn’t have Aadhaar?
👉 Any government ID proof (like PAN or Voter ID) will usually work.
Q3: Is it compulsory to have all documents in English?
👉 Yes, it’s preferred. If not, a notarized English translation might be required.
Q4: What’s the most important document?
👉 Your Trust Deed, MOA, or Bylaws — these define your NGO’s purpose.
🎯 Conclusion
Setting up an NGO is a beautiful journey — and getting your paperwork ready is your first milestone. The good news is that you don’t need fancy degrees or big money to do it — just clarity, documents, and commitment.
At Green Vision Society, we’ve been through the same path. So, if you ever feel stuck or need help, feel free to reach out. We’re here to guide you and cheer you on!
💬 Need help with NGO registration or document filing?
👉 Contact us today at support@greenvisionsociety.org
🌐 Visit: greenvisionsociety.org
