How to Register a Company with CIPC in South Africa
Register a Pty Ltd with CIPC in South Africa: name reservation (R50), online CoR14.1 filing (R175), 1–5 business days. Documents, MOI, and post-registration SARS steps explained.
Quick answer
To register a company with CIPC in South Africa: create a CIPC customer account, reserve your company name (R50), file the CoR14.1 with your MOI and director IDs (R175 registration fee), and receive your registration certificate in 1–5 business days. Then register for income tax with SARS and open a business bank account.
Step-by-Step Guide
Create a CIPC customer account
Go to eservices.cipc.co.za and register for a customer code. You'll need your SA ID number and email address. This account is used for all CIPC transactions.
Reserve your company name
Submit a name reservation (CoR9.1) with up to 4 name choices in order of preference. Cost: R50. Names must not be identical or similar to existing registered names. Reservation is valid for 6 months.
Prepare your documents
You'll need: certified ID copies of all directors, proof of registered office address, Memorandum of Incorporation (MOI) — use the standard CoR15.1A for a private company or customise your own.
Submit the registration
On CIPC eServices, file the CoR14.1 (notice of incorporation). Upload the MOI, director details, and registered address. Pay the registration fee: R175 for a Pty Ltd.
Receive your registration certificate
CIPC processes applications within 1-5 business days for online submissions. You'll receive a registration certificate with your company registration number (e.g., 2026/123456/07).
Complete post-registration steps
Register with SARS for income tax, open a business bank account, register for VAT (if applicable), and set up your accounting system. Keep your CIPC customer code safe for annual returns.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to register a company with CIPC?
How long does CIPC registration take?
What is a Memorandum of Incorporation (MOI)?
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