When I decided to start a business in Sri Lanka, I expected endless queues and stacks of forms. But 2025 brought a digital revolution. Today, you can register a Private Limited Company online using eROC without stepping into the DRC office.

Here’s my story, step-by-step, to help you replicate the process efficiently.

Step 1: Name Reservation

I first checked if my desired name was available using the eROC public search tool.
The fee: LKR 2,360.
Within minutes, I reserved it for 3 months.

💡 Tip: Reserve your domain at the same time.

Step 2: eROC Account Creation

I created a free account, entered my details, and verified my email. This account would be my main communication channel with ROC.

Step 3: Company Details Submission

I entered:

  • Registered office address
  • Company objectives
  • Director and shareholder information
  • Company secretary details

The system was intuitive, guiding me step by step.

Step 4: Forms & Uploads

eROC generated Forms 1, 18, and 19.
I printed, signed, scanned, and uploaded them.
⚠ Ensure PDFs are A4, clear, and not merged.

Step 5: Articles of Association

I used a custom AoA because my company had foreign shareholders.
Fee: LKR 2,360

Step 6: Payment & Approval

I paid online and received the digital Certificate of Incorporation within 3 days.

Step 7: Gazette & Newspaper Notice

Previously a tedious step. Now, ROC handles it automatically—no extra cost, no stress.

Post-Incorporation Compliance

I immediately:

  • Opened a tax file (TIN)
  • Registered employees for EPF/ETF
  • Set up bookkeeping and financial tracking

My company was legally compliant from day one.

Key Lessons

  1. Prepare all documents beforehand
  2. Appoint a licensed company secretary
  3. Scan PDFs clearly
  4. Reserve your name and domain simultaneously
  5. ROC now handles Gazette/publication automatically

Conclusion

Registering a company in Sri Lanka in 2025 is faster, smoother, and simpler than ever. The eROC system allows entrepreneurs—local or foreign—to incorporate online, complete compliance requirements, and focus on growing their business without unnecessary bureaucracy.

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