How do I register a company with CIPC in South Africa?
# How to Register a Company with CIPC in South Africa
You can register a company with CIPC (Companies and Intellectual Property Commission) entirely online for **R175 with a company name** or **R125 without a name**. The process takes a maximum of **24 hours** and requires no document submission for basic registration.
## Quick Registration Process
**Step 1: Access the CIPC Portal**
Visit [bizportal.gov.za](https://bizportal.gov.za) and select "Register a new company" or log into your existing customer account.
**Step 2: Choose Registration Type**
- **With name**: R175 (includes name reservation)
- **Without name**: R125 (you'll get a registration number only)
**Step 3: Complete the Online Form**
Provide the following information:
- Company name (if selected)
- Director details and ID numbers
- Physical and postal addresses
- Main business activity
- Share capital structure
**Step 4: Pay the Fee**
Pay online using a credit card, debit card, or EFT. The system accepts all major South African banks.
**Step 5: Receive Your Certificate**
CIPC processes applications within **24 hours**. You'll receive your Certificate of Incorporation (COR14.3) via email.
## What You Get After Registration
- Certificate of Incorporation (COR14.3)
- Company registration number
- Memorandum of Incorporation (MOI) - the company's constitution
- Share certificates (if applicable)
## Important Requirements for Directors
All private companies must have:
- **Minimum 1 director** who is a South African resident
- Directors must be 18 years or older
- Directors cannot be disqualified persons
## After Registration: Next Steps
1. **Open a business bank account** using your COR14.3
2. **Register with SARS** for tax obligations (Income Tax, VAT if applicable, PAYE if you have employees)
3. **Obtain required licences** for your specific industry
4. **Register with the Department of Labour** (UIF, Compensation Fund)
## Annual Compliance Requirements
Once registered, your company must:
- File **Annual Returns** with CIPC every year
- Pay the annual fee (currently **R385**)
- Submit annual financial statements if required
- Maintain statutory records
Managing multiple compliance deadlines can be challenging for accounting practices. WeekdayApp automates SARS and CIPC deadline tracking, ensuring your clients never miss critical filing dates, starting at R199/user/month.
The online registration system has simplified company formation significantly, making it accessible for entrepreneurs and small businesses to establish their companies quickly and cost-effectively.