With the implementation of the Companies Act, 2013, a single person could constitute a Company, under the One Person Company (OPC) concept.
The introduction of OPC in the legal system is a move that would encourage corporatisation of micro businesses and entrepreneurship.
One Person Company (OPC) is another form of organization newly provided under the Companies Act, 2013 , wherein, the entity can be incorporated with a single member.
A One Person Company is incorporated as a Private Limited Company. It must have only one member at any point of time and may have only one Director. The member and nominee should be natural persons , Indian citizens and resident in India.
Features of an OPC
It has all the protection and responsibilities as available to a Private limited Company, with the major change, that the number of shareholders who are required to incorporate the Company is one (1).
Once the Company achieves a certain turnover level, the OPC has to get converted into a Private Limited Company. The promoter also can choose to convert the Company into a private limited company voluntarily, once the Company has been in operation for a certain period of time.
Difference between a Sole Proprietorship and an OPC
A one-person company is different from a sole proprietorship because it is a separate legal entity that distinguishes between the promoter and the company.
The promoter’s liability is limited in an OPC in the event of a default or legal issues. On the other hand, in case of sole proprietorships, the liability is not restricted and extends to the individual and his or her entire assets.
A One person company shall have a minimum of one (1) director. Therefore, a One Person Company shall be registered as a private limited company with one member and one director. By virtue of section 3(2), an OPC may be formed either as a company limited by shares or a company limited by guarantee; or an unlimited liability company.