What is timeline for change of office address documents with ROC. Every registered company in India must maintain an official registered office address under the Companies Act, 2013. This address acts as the company’s legal identity and communication point for all statutory matters.
Whenever a company changes its office address—whether within the same city or to another state—it must inform the Registrar of Companies (ROC) within a specific time frame. Failure to comply can lead to penalties and compliance issues.
Let’s understand the exact time limits for filing these documents and how to stay compliant with ROC regulations.
🗓️ Legal Provision Under Companies Act, 2013
According to Section 12(4) of the Companies Act, 2013, a company must file notice of change of registered office with the ROC within 15 days of the change.
This rule ensures that all legal communications and notices reach the correct address, maintaining transparency and accountability in business operations.
📂 Applicable Forms and Timelines
The timeline remains 15 days from the date of the address change, but the forms vary depending on the nature of the shift.
| Type of Address Change | Applicable Form(s) | Time Limit | Approval Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🏙️ Within the same city or local limits | Form INC-22 | Within 15 days | No special approval |
| 🏛️ From one city to another within the same ROC jurisdiction | Form INC-23 (for approval) + Form INC-22 | File INC-23 first, then INC-22 within 15 days | Regional Director (RD) approval |
| 🌍 From one ROC jurisdiction/state to another | Form MGT-14, Form INC-23, and Form INC-22 | MGT-14 within 30 days, INC-23 for approval, INC-22 within 15 days | RD and ROC approval |
So, while the standard filing window is 15 days, companies must also account for additional approvals where necessary.
⚙️ 3️⃣ Step-by-Step Filing Process
Following the correct filing sequence helps avoid delays and penalties.
✅ Step 1: Board Meeting
Hold a Board Meeting to approve the change and authorize a director or company secretary to file the necessary forms.
✅ Step 2: Members’ Approval (if required)
If the office shift is outside the local limits or to another state, pass a special resolution and file Form MGT-14 within 30 days.
✅ Step 3: Regional Director Approval
For inter-state or inter-ROC changes, submit Form INC-23 to obtain approval from the Regional Director.
✅ Step 4: ROC Filing
Finally, file Form INC-22 with all required documents within 15 days from the date of the actual office change.
This systematic approach ensures full compliance with ROC regulations.
⚖️ Consequences of Delay in Filing
If a company fails to file the form within the prescribed period, it may face additional fees and penalties under the Companies (Registration Offices and Fees) Rules, 2014.
Moreover, the company’s communication records with the ROC may become inaccurate, causing future legal and compliance complications.
📅 Key Takeaway
To summarize:
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The company must file Form INC-22 within 15 days of changing the office address.
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In case of inter-state or jurisdictional change, approval through Form INC-23 and Form MGT-14 is mandatory before filing INC-22.
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Timely filing maintains compliance and prevents unnecessary penalties.
🏁 Conclusion
The 15-day time limit for filing address change documents with ROC is a crucial compliance step under the Companies Act, 2013.
Whether it’s a small move within the same city or a major shift across states, companies must update their registered office details promptly. This not only ensures legal accuracy but also strengthens the company’s professional credibility.
Staying compliant with ROC timelines is always easier—and far less costly – than facing penalties later.
Hope you get the clarity about What is timeline for change of office address documents with ROC.