The Complete Guide to Checking Company Name Availability in Sri Lanka
Free Company Name Availability Check
Choosing a company name is one of the most important first steps when starting a business in Sri Lanka. Your company name becomes your brand identity, legal identity, and the foundation for your entire business presence. Before moving forward with logo design, website development, or documentation, you must ensure the name is legally available and approved by the Registrar of Companies (ROC).
This complete guide explains the entire process of checking company name availability in Sri Lanka — including rules, restrictions, best practices, and step-by-step instructions.
Why You Must Check Name Availability First
Before incorporating a company, the ROC requires that your preferred name is:
- Unique
- Distinguishable from existing companies
- Legally acceptable
- Not misleading to the public
- Not containing restricted or sensitive keywords
Failing to check name availability can result in:
- ROC rejection
- Delays in company registration
- Loss of the name you invested in for branding
- Redesign of marketing materials
- Additional costs and resubmissions
A proper name availability check prevents these issues and speeds up your registration process.
Understanding ROC Name Approval Rules in Sri Lanka
The ROC follows specific guidelines when evaluating company names. Here are the main rules to consider:
1. The name must be clearly distinguishable
Even small similarities can cause rejection. For example:
- “SkyLine Holdings (Pvt) Ltd” vs “Skyline Lanka (Pvt) Ltd”
- “Evergreen Solutions (Pvt) Ltd” vs “Ever Green Solutions (Pvt) Ltd”
Changing spacing, adding “Lanka”, or using plural forms does not make a name unique.
2. Restricted or regulated words require special approval
The following terms cannot be used without prior approval from relevant authorities:
- Bank, Finance, Insurance
- Corporation, Authority, Council
- Sri Lanka, National, Government
- University, Institute, Academy (in certain cases)
Using these without permission results in automatic rejection.
3. The name cannot mislead or misrepresent
Names suggesting government affiliation, financial services, or professional authority will be rejected unless justified.
4. Private companies must end with “(Pvt) Ltd”
Failing to use the correct suffix is a common mistake.
5. Offensive or inappropriate words are not allowed
Names must be respectful and suitable for public documents.
Understanding these rules ensures your name passes the first compliance review.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Check Company Name Availability
Here is the exact process followed by most entrepreneurs and company secretaries:
Step 1: Prepare 3–5 name options
The ROC approves names on a first-come-first-served basis. Having multiple options saves time in case one is unavailable.
Tips for choosing name ideas:
- Combine two unique words
- Avoid very common words
- Add a distinctive prefix or suffix
- Keep it easy to spell and remember
- Reflect your business nature (optional but helpful)
Step 2: Run a preliminary name search
A free company name availability check (such as the one offered on Start A Business in Sri Lanka) helps you filter out names that are clearly taken or too similar.
This saves time before submitting to ROC.
Benefits of doing a pre-check:
- Avoids obvious rejections
- Saves your name reservation fees
- Helps refine your name ideas
- Shows alternative suggestions
Step 3: Submit an official name reservation via ROC (eROC)
Once you find a name that looks available, the next step is to make the official name reservation request through the ROC’s eROC portal.
You will need:
- Preferred company name
- Company type (e.g., Private Limited)
- Reason for name selection (optional)
- Applicant/secretary details
After submission, the ROC reviews the name according to the naming rules.
Step 4: Wait for ROC approval
The approval process usually takes:
- 1–3 working days for straightforward names
- 3–7 days for names with sensitive or regulated words
The ROC may:
- Approve the name
- Reject the name
- Request modification or justification
Once approved, you receive a Name Approval Number, valid for 3 months.
Step 5: Start company incorporation
After name approval, you can proceed with:
- Preparing incorporation documents
- Drafting Articles of Association
- Appointing directors and shareholders
- Uploading required forms
- Making the incorporation payment
Your name is now fully protected during this period.
Tips for Choosing a Strong and Compliant Company Name
1. Make it unique
The more unique your name, the higher the approval success rate.
2. Avoid generic or overused terms
Examples that often get rejected:
- Global
- International
- Lanka
- Holdings
- Enterprises
3. Keep it short and memorable
Short names are better for branding.
4. Consider your long-term goals
Choose a name that stays relevant as your business grows.
5. Always run a professional name availability check
This ensures compliance with ROC regulations and avoids rejection.
Why Use a Professional for Name Availability Checking?
While anyone can attempt a name check, a qualified company secretary significantly improves your chances of approval.
A professional will:
- Check for similar existing companies
- Ensure full compliance with ROC naming rules
- Advise alternative name options
- Minimise the risk of rejection
- Handle the eROC submission correctly
- Speed up the overall incorporation process
This is especially valuable for entrepreneurs starting their first company.
Final Thoughts
Checking company name availability is a crucial first step in your Sri Lankan business journey. A well-chosen, legally compliant name ensures smooth incorporation, strong branding, and long-term stability. By following the guidelines above and conducting a proper name availability check, you can avoid delays, additional costs, and unnecessary rebranding.