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How to Register a Company with CIPC in South Africa

Updated 12 March 2026 · 3 min read · 6 steps

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.

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. 1

    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.
  2. 2

    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.
  3. 3

    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.
  4. 4

    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.
  5. 5

    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).
  6. 6

    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?
Name reservation: R50. Company registration (Pty Ltd): R175. Total minimum: R225.
How long does CIPC registration take?
Online registration typically takes 1-5 business days. Name reservation takes 1-7 business days.
What is a Memorandum of Incorporation (MOI)?
The MOI is the founding document of a company, outlining its rules, rights and duties of directors, and other governance provisions. CIPC provides standard templates.

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