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Professionals working on PRGI registration compliance documents in India – Guide for publishers and media 2025 by Universal PSR Compliance LLP
PRGI Registration

Wed, Aug 27 2025

Shubham Bansal

PRGI Registration in India: Complete Guide for Publishers & Media (2025)

Introduction

If you are planning to launch a newspaper, magazine, or digital publication in India, you will come across the term PRGI. Many publishers get confused between PRGI and RNI, but both play an important role in ensuring that your publication is legally recognized and compliant with government rules.

In this complete guide, we’ll explain:

  • What PRGI is and why it matters

  • The difference between PRGI and RNI

  • The step-by-step PRGI registration process

  • Documents required, fees, and timelines

  • How to use the PRGI online portal

  • How to download your PRGI certificate and check application status

By the end, you’ll know exactly how to get your publication registered smoothly in 2025.

What is PRGI?

PRGI stands for Press Registrar General of India. It is the official authority responsible for the registration of newspapers, magazines, and periodicals in India.

Without PRGI approval, you cannot legally publish or circulate a print publication in India. PRGI ensures transparency in media by verifying publisher details, title ownership, and compliance with publishing laws.

👉 In short: If you want to publish, you need PRGI registration.

PRGI vs RNI: What’s the Difference?

Many first-time publishers confuse PRGI with RNI (Registrar of Newspapers for India). Here’s the difference:

Feature PRGI (Press Registrar General of India) RNI (Registrar of Newspapers for India)
Main Role Registration & regulation of publications Title approval and circulation records
Certificate Issued PRGI Certificate Title Verification Certificate
Required For Starting a newspaper/magazine legally Reserving a publication title
Online Portal PRGI Online Portal RNI eFiling Portal

👉 In practice, publishers often need both RNI and PRGI approvals to be fully compliant.

Why is PRGI Registration Important?

  • Legal permission to publish newspapers/magazines

  • Proof of title ownership

  • Eligibility for government advertisements and tenders

  • Compliance with media laws in India

  • Builds credibility for your publication

Step-by-Step Process for PRGI Registration (2025)

Here’s the simplified process for PRGI online registration:

1. Title Verification

  • First, apply for title approval through RNI.

  • Once the title is approved, proceed with PRGI registration.

2. Prepare Documents

  • Ownership proof of publication

  • Printer’s agreement (if outsourced)

  • Declaration form under the Press & Registration of Books Act

  • ID proof & address proof of publisher/editor

3. Create Account on PRGI Portal

  • Visit the PRGI Online Portal

  • Register with publisher details

  • Verify your email and mobile number

4. Submit Application

  • Log in to the PRGI portal

  • Fill in publication details (language, periodicity, address, editor details)

  • Upload required documents

5. Pay Registration Fees

  • Fees vary depending on the type and size of publication

  • Pay online through the portal

6. Application Review

  • PRGI officials review your application

  • They may request additional documents if needed

7. Receive PRGI Certificate

  • Once approved, download your PRGI Certificate from the portal

  • This certificate is your legal license to publish

Documents Required for PRGI Registration

  • Identity proof of publisher and editor

  • Address proof of publication office

  • Printer’s agreement (if applicable)

  • Declaration form under PRB Act

  • RNI Title Verification Certificate

PRGI Registration Fees in India (2025)

The fees depend on:

  • Type of publication (daily, weekly, monthly, digital + print)

  • Language and circulation

  • State-specific charges

👉 On average, PRGI registration fees range from ₹2,000 – ₹10,000.

How to Use the PRGI Online Portal

  • Visit the PRGI Portal

  • Log in with your registered account

  • Submit new applications or check existing ones

  • Download your PRGI certificate once approved

How to Check PRGI Application Status Online

  1. Go to the PRGI online portal

  2. Log in with your application ID

  3. Select “Application Status”

  4. View updates on approval or required corrections

PRGI Certificate Download

Once your application is approved:

  • Login → Dashboard → “Certificate”

  • Download the PRGI certificate in PDF format

  • Keep both digital & printed copies for official use

FAQs on PRGI Registration

Q1. What is PRGI registration?

PRGI registration is the process of getting legal approval from the Press Registrar General of India to publish newspapers, magazines, or periodicals in India.

Q2. How long does PRGI registration take?

It usually takes 30–60 days, depending on document verification and approvals.

Q3. Can I apply for PRGI registration online?

Yes, the entire process can be completed online through the PRGI portal.

Q4. Is PRGI mandatory for digital publications?

If your publication is digital-only, PRGI may not be mandatory. But for print or print + digital, PRGI registration is required.

Q5. What is the difference between PRGI and RNI?

RNI handles title approval, while PRGI handles registration and licensing. Both are required for print publishers.

Conclusion

PRGI registration is a must-have license if you want to start a newspaper or magazine in India. The process involves title approval, document submission, fees, and final certification, all of which can now be done online.

If you’re confused or need help, PSR Compliance can guide you through the entire PRGI registration process – from documentation to certification – ensuring a hassle-free experience.

📞 Contact us today to get your PRGI registration done quickly and correctly.

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