Company Registration South Africa
Bizztax Accountants assists individuals and entrepreneurs with company registration through CIPC, annual return filing and ongoing compliance for private companies and close corporations in South Africa.
What is company registration in South Africa?
Company registration is the process of formally incorporating a business entity with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC). In South Africa, the most common business structures are private companies (Pty Ltd) and close corporations (CC). Once registered, your company has a separate legal identity, can enter into contracts, open a bank account and employ staff. Registration is done through CIPC's online portal and typically takes 5–10 business days.
Who should register a company?
You should register a company if you want to separate your personal assets from your business liabilities, if you need to tender for government contracts (which require a registered entity), if you want to bring in business partners or investors, or if your business has grown to the point where operating as a sole trader is no longer appropriate. A registered company also provides credibility with clients and suppliers.
Our Company Registration Services
Private Company Registration (Pty Ltd)
We register your private company with CIPC, including preparation of the Memorandum of Incorporation (MOI), selection of a company name, and submission of the registration application. We advise on the appropriate share structure and director appointments.
Close Corporation Registration
We register close corporations for clients who prefer this simpler business structure. A CC has members rather than shareholders and is governed by the Close Corporations Act.
Annual Return Filing (CIPC)
Every registered company and close corporation must file an annual return with CIPC within 30 business days of its anniversary date. Failure to file results in deregistration. We manage your annual return filing to keep your company in good standing.
SARS Registration for New Companies
Once your company is registered, it must be registered with SARS for income tax. Depending on your business, you may also need to register for VAT, PAYE and SDL. We handle all SARS registrations for newly incorporated companies.
Company Amendments and Changes
We assist with changes to your company's registered details, including changes to directors, registered address, company name and share structure, all filed with CIPC.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about company registration and compliance in South Africa.
How long does it take to register a company in South Africa?
CIPC company registration typically takes 5–10 business days once all documents are submitted correctly. Name reservations, if required, add a few additional days. Bizztax manages the process to ensure your application is submitted correctly the first time.
What is the difference between a Pty Ltd and a close corporation in South Africa?
A private company (Pty Ltd) is governed by the Companies Act 71 of 2008 and has shareholders and directors. A close corporation (CC) is governed by the Close Corporations Act 69 of 1984 and has members. New CCs can no longer be registered since 2011, but existing CCs continue to operate. Most new businesses register as private companies.
Do I need a company or can I operate as a sole trader?
You can operate as a sole trader without registering a company, but you will be personally liable for all business debts. A registered company provides limited liability protection — your personal assets are generally protected from business creditors. A company is also required for government tenders and is often preferred by larger clients and suppliers.
What does CIPC annual return filing cost?
CIPC annual return fees depend on your company's turnover. Fees range from R100 for companies with no turnover to R3 000 for companies with turnover above R25 million. Bizztax charges a service fee on top of the CIPC fee for managing the filing on your behalf.
Related services
Register your company today
Contact Bizztax Accountants for assistance with company registration, annual returns and SARS registration for your new business.