Get in Touch

What is Change of Business Activity / Object Clause ?

When a company wants to change its direction or start a new line of business that is different from what it was originally formed for, it needs to officially change its object clause in the Memorandum of Association (MoA). The object clause defines the main activities the company is allowed to do. So, if you plan to explore new sectors or add new services, you must update this clause through legal procedures.

For example, if your company was formed to provide IT services and now you also want to start manufacturing, then you have to amend your object clause to reflect this change.

This process is known as the Change of Business Activity or Object Clause, and it must be done legally by passing a board resolution, getting shareholder approval, and filing the required forms with the Registrar of Companies (RoC) under the Companies Act, 2013.

4 EASY STEPS OF

Change of Business Activity / Object Clause

Board Meeting
01

Board Meeting

Shareholder Approval
01

Shareholder Approval

File Form MGT-14
01

File Form MGT-14

Approval from RoC
01

Approval from RoC

DOCUMENTS CHECKLIST

Documents Required for Change of Business Activity / Object Clause

Benefit Of Change of Business Activity

Advantages Of Documents Required for Change of Business Activity

Legal Compliance

Keeps your business legally compliant with the Companies Act, avoiding penalties and legal complications.

Expansion into New Areas

You can diversify and enter new markets or sectors legally and confidently.

Improves Credibility

Investors, banks, and government authorities take your business more seriously when documents reflect your real operations.

Smooth Fundraising

While raising funds, investors check your MoA. A clear object clause aligned with your activities boosts investor trust.

Better Branding Opportunities

As your activities change, your brand strategy can legally evolve with your business model.

Eases Licensing & Registration

Many regulatory departments check your object clause before giving licenses. A mismatch could lead to rejection.

Avoids Penalties for Ultra Vires Acts

Prevents risks of engaging in business activities beyond what your company is allowed to do.

Better Internal Clarity

Helps internal teams and management understand what business areas are legally approved and can be explored.

Attracts New Clients and Partnerships

When your object clause includes expanded activities, it's easier to onboard new clients in those areas.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

The object clause in your company's Memorandum of Association (MoA) defines the scope of business activities your company is allowed to perform. It includes the main objects, ancillary objects, and other objects. Any business activity outside these listed objects is considered unauthorized and illegal.

Yes, you can propose multiple new activities in a single resolution and alter the MoA accordingly. However, they must be clearly listed and should not contradict each other. The RoC may ask for clarification if the nature of business seems vague.

Absolutely. Filing Form MGT-14 with the RoC is compulsory after the shareholders pass the special resolution. It must be filed within 30 days of the resolution to avoid penalties.

Yes, a private limited company can change its object clause whenever required, but the process must be completed in a legal and timely manner, including passing resolutions and RoC filings.

Typically, the change of business activity or object clause can take 7 to 15 working days, depending on documentation and RoC processing times.

If your new business activity is significantly different, then yes — you may have to update your GST registration, Shops & Establishment license, and other applicable registrations.

No, your existing operations will continue. The change allows you to add new activities — it doesn't restrict or remove your current ones.

Yes, you must call an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) and get at least 75% majority approval through a special resolution to change the object clause.

Yes, even if you're a startup, any business activity not mentioned in your original MoA needs formal approval. This shows that you're running a responsible, well-documented business.

Technically, it’s possible, but it's risky. Legal errors in drafting the resolution or filing forms could lead to rejection by the RoC. It's always better to consult professionals like CallMyCA who can handle the process smoothly for you.