How to Register a Small Business in South Africa Without Paying an Agent
Starting your own business in South Africa can feel overwhelming, reason being especially when most online guides push you toward expensive agents. The truth is: you can register a business yourself directly through CIPC (Companies and Intellectual Property Commission) in just a few steps — and for a fraction of the cost.
This guide will show you step-by-step how to register your business, avoid delays, and save money.
Choose Your Business Structure
In South Africa, most small businesses register as:
- Private Company (Pty) Ltd – the most popular option, offering limited liability.
- Sole Proprietor – no CIPC registration needed, only SARS tax number.
- Non-Profit Company (NPC) – This is if your business is community-driven.
For most entrepreneurs, Pty Ltd is the safest however because your personal assets are protected.
Create a CIPC Account
- Go to the CIPC website.
- Click Customer Registration and complete your personal details.
- You’ll get a customer code (e.g., ABC1234) and password by SMS and email.
Pro Tip: Keep your CIPC login safe; you’ll need it for all filings (annual returns, name changes, etc.).
Reserve a Business Name (Optional)
You can register your business with a custom name or use your enterprise number as the name.
- Name reservation costs R63 for up to 4 names.
- If your first choice is rejected, then CIPC will check the next one.
Pro Tip: Search your name first on CIPC’s “Name Search” tool to avoid rejection.
Register the Company
- Log in to the CIPC eServices portal.
- Click Company Registration → Register a New Company.
- Select Private Company (Pty) Ltd.
- Upload director details (certified ID, email, cellphone number).
- If you reserved a name, thereafter link it here; otherwise, you’ll be assigned with an enterprise number as your company name.
Cost: ± R125 for registration.
Get Your Company Documents
Once approved, CIPC will email you:
- COR14.3 (Registration Certificate)
- COR39 (Director Appointment form)
These documents prove your business is legally registered.
Register for Tax
CIPC automatically shares your business details with SARS. Within a few days, you’ll get a Company Income Tax (CIT) number.
Pro Tip: Log into SARS eFiling and activate your company profile early to avoid delays with banking or tenders.
Open a Business Bank Account
With your COR14.3, ID, and proof of address, you can open a business bank account. This is essential for credibility and separating personal from business finances.
Maintain Compliance
- Annual Returns: Pay yearly fees on the CIPC portal to keep your company active.
- BO Register (Beneficial Ownership): As of 2023, you must declare who owns/controls the company.
- Tax Compliance: Submit returns to SARS (even if R0 income).
Failure to comply can lead to deregistration.
Quick Summary:
- CIPC account → Reserve name → Register company → Get tax number → Open bank account → Stay compliant.
- Total cost: Around R190, no agent required.
Final Thoughts
Registering a small business in South Africa yourself is not only cheaper but also gives you full control over your company records. Agents often charge R800 – R1,500 for something you can do online in under 30 minutes.
Take ownership today — your future company is just a few clicks away.
