Establishing a Society or Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) in Goa is a significant step towards contributing to social, cultural, educational, or charitable causes. If you’re planning to start an NGO in Goa, understanding the legal and procedural requirements is crucial to ensure proper registration and compliance.

This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to register a Society/NGO in Goa under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, which is applicable across India.

✅ Types of NGOs You Can Register in Goa

There are three main legal structures for NGOs in India:

1. Trust – Governed by the Indian Trusts Act, 1882

2. Society – Governed by the Societies Registration Act, 1860

3. Section 8 Company – Governed by the Companies Act, 2013

This article focuses specifically on Society Registration in Goa, the most common form for NGOs working in education, health, arts, culture, and community development.

📌 Benefits of Registering a Society

• Legal recognition and status

• Ability to open a bank account

• Eligibility for grants and donations (including foreign funding via FCRA)

• Tax exemptions under Section 12A and 80G of the Income Tax Act

• Perpetual succession and limited liability of members

📃 Documents Required for Society Registration in Goa

Before you begin the registration process, gather the following documents:

Mandatory Documents:

1. Memorandum of Association (MoA)

   • Objectives of the society

   • Names, addresses, and occupations of the governing body

2. Rules and Regulations (Bylaws)

   • Internal governance, meeting schedule, roles, and responsibilities

3. Identity Proofs of all founding members (minimum 7):

   • Aadhaar Card / PAN Card / Passport / Voter ID

4. Address Proof of registered office:

   • Rent agreement or ownership deed, along with NOC from landlord

5. Passport-size Photographs of all members

6. Affidavits/Declaration

   • Stating the society is not for profit and will be run lawfully

7. Resolution by governing body members approving formation of the society

👥 Eligibility Criteria to Register a Society in Goa

• Minimum 7 members (can include at least one from Goa)

• Members can be individuals, companies, or other societies

• Foreign nationals can be members, but FCRA compliance applies later

🏛️ Where to Register a Society in Goa

In Goa, society registration is handled by:

Office of the Inspector General of Societies, Panaji
Under: Department of Law & Judiciary, Government of Goa

You must submit your application to the office located in the concerned district (North or South Goa).

📝 Step-by-Step Process for Society Registration in Goa

Step 1: Choose a Unique Name

• Ensure the name is not similar to any existing registered society or trademark

• Avoid names suggesting government patronage or religious bias

Step 2: Draft the MoA and Rules & Regulations

• Clearly define the aims, activities, membership, governance, and dissolution process

• These documents need to be signed by all founding members

Step 3: Collect and Notarize Required Documents

• Ensure affidavits and ID proofs are notarized

• Obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the premises owner

Step 4: Submit the Application

• Visit the Inspector General of Societies Office in person

• Submit the complete file including MoA, bylaws, affidavits, ID/address proofs

Step 5: Pay the Registration Fees

• Nominal fees apply (generally ₹500 to ₹1,000 depending on number of pages)

• Pay via treasury challan or demand draft as instructed

Step 6: Verification and Approval

• The Registrar will verify the documents and may request clarification

• If everything is in order, the society will be registered within 30–45 days

Step 7: Receive Certificate of Registration

• Once approved, you’ll receive a Certificate of Registration with a registration number

• This certificate gives your NGO legal recognition in Goa

🧾 Post-Registration Compliance

After registration, you need to follow certain legal and administrative steps:

1. Apply for PAN Card in the society’s name

2. Open a Bank Account using the PAN and registration certificate

3. Register under 12A & 80G of the Income Tax Act (for tax exemption)

4. Maintain Annual Accounts and submit yearly reports to the Registrar

5. If foreign funding is expected, apply for FCRA registration

⚖️ Timeframe and Cost

🧑‍⚖️ Contact Information – Registrar Office (Goa)

North Goa:

Office of the Inspector General of Societies
Shrama Shakti Bhavan, 5th Floor,
Patto Plaza, Panaji – Goa 403001
Phone: +91-832-2438610

South Goa:

Sub-Registrar Office, Margao or Quepem
Contact local Taluka Office

✅ Conclusion

Registering a Society or NGO in Goa is a structured but manageable process. By preparing the correct documentation and following legal formalities, you can form a legally compliant organization ready to make a positive impact. While you can do it yourself, many organizations choose to hire a consultant or lawyer to avoid delays and ensure smooth registration.

💬 Need Help?

If you need assistance in drafting your MoA, bylaws, affidavits, or filing for 80G/12A, feel free to reach out to TAXAJ.

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Created & Posted by Sony Garg

Accounts & Finance Executive at TAXAJ

TAXAJ is a consortium of CA, CS, Advocates & Professionals from specific fields to provide you a One Stop Solution for all your Business, Financial, Taxation & Legal Matters under One Roof. Some of them are: Launch Your Start-Up Company/Business, Trademark & Brand Registration, Digital Marketing, E-Stamp Paper Online, Closure of Business, Legal Services, Payroll Services, etc. For any further queries related to this or anything else visit TAXAJ

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