MGT-7 is the annual return every Indian company files with the Registrar of Companies, capturing its shareholding, directors, meetings and other governance details as at the financial year end. It is due within 60 days of the AGM. One person companies and small companies file the simpler MGT-7A instead. Late filing costs ₹100 per day, uncapped.
The annual return is a snapshot of the company's structure: registered office, principal business activities, shares held and any transfers during the year, directors and key managerial personnel, board and general meetings held, and remuneration. For a March year-end with an AGM by 30 September, the deadline works out to late November. An extract of key dates goes into the board's report as well.
Most private limited MSMEs qualify as small companies — paid-up capital up to ₹10 crore and turnover up to ₹100 crore (thresholds revised w.e.f. 1 December 2025 by MCA notification G.S.R. 880(E)) — so they file MGT-7A, which is shorter and does not need certification by a company secretary. Larger companies file the full MGT-7, and beyond certain size thresholds the return must additionally be certified by a practising company secretary in form MGT-8.
Common mistake: reporting share transfers in AOC-4 but forgetting them in MGT-7, or filing with a stale registered office address. The two annual forms are matched by the ROC, and inconsistencies invite queries. Also remember MGT-7 is due even for a year with no business activity — nil operations do not mean nil filing.
Reviewed to the law in force in FY 2026-27. General information, not advice — confirm the position for your facts before acting.