Where to Register a Company in South Africa

You’ve got the idea. You’ve started your hustle. Now it’s time to make things official. But before you can call your business legit, there’s one big question to answer: where should you register your company?

In South Africa, you’ve got a few different options. You can go straight through CIPC, try out the more beginner-friendly BizPortal, or outsource the whole process to a third-party like Govchain. Each one gets the job done, it’s just a matter of which route fits you best.

This guide won’t walk you through the full registration process (we’ve covered that elsewhere). Instead, we’re here to help you figure out where to start, based on how much time, effort, or support you need.

Why it’s worth choosing the right platform

Making your business official is about more than just ticking boxes. It’s about setting yourself up properly, so you can grow, access funding, and protect your personal assets.

But let’s be real. Not all platforms are created equal. Some are straightforward and fast, while others give you more control (and sometimes more headaches). So, picking the right option can save you a lot of time and hassle down the line.

Option 1: CIPC: Direct

CIPC (Companies and Intellectual Property Commission) is the official government body in charge of company registrations. It’s also the most affordable route, but it’s not the easiest to use.

You’ll need to create an account on their website, come up with a business name, upload a certified copy of your ID, and fill in quite a few forms. The registration fee ranges from R125 to R175, depending on your setup.

The CIPC platform works, but it’s a bit clunky. It’s not exactly made for first-timers. And it doesn’t include extras like SARS or UIF registration, so you’ll need to do those separately.

If you’re confident in navigating admin on your own, and your budget is tight, CIPC can work well. But be prepared for some trial and error.

Option 2: BizPortal: Easier and still official

BizPortal is like CIPC’s cooler, more modern cousin. It’s also run by the government, but it’s designed to make your life easier.

You still need your ID and company details, but the process is far more streamlined. Plus, you can sort out your SARS, UIF, and even B-BBEE registration at the same time.

It costs the same as CIPC but feels less frustrating. If you’re new to the process but still want to handle it yourself, BizPortal is a solid choice.

Option 3: Govchain: they handle it all

Not a fan of paperwork? Prefer to have someone else do the admin? Govchain might be your best bet.

They’re a private service that handles everything, from name reservations to registering your company and dealing with the CIPC, SARS, and more. You just send over your info and documents, and they take it from there.

It’s not free (packages start from around R499), but it’s super convenient. You also get extra perks like support, tax clearance, and B-BBEE certificates, which can be useful when applying for tenders or working with corporates.

Govchain’s perfect if you’re short on time or want to make sure everything’s done right from the start.

What most business owners choose

If you’re running a solo side hustle, BizPortal is usually the go-to. It’s budget-friendly, official, and easier to understand. If you’re more experienced with online systems or keen to do everything yourself, CIPC is the cheapest option. And if you’re launching something big or just don’t have time to deal with admin, Govchain takes the pressure off.

The most common structure for small businesses is a Private Company (Pty) Ltd. It falls under the profit company category, protects your personal assets, and gives you more credibility when dealing with clients or banks.

Common mistakes you will want to avoid

A few things can trip you up no matter which route you choose. First up: your business name. Don’t just settle on one name, have a few backups ready. If your first pick is already taken or too similar to something else, you’ll have to go back and start over.

Next, be careful with your documents. If your identity documents aren’t correctly certified (or they’re expired), your application will be delayed. Make sure everything is clear, up-to-date, and stamped by a Commissioner of Oaths.

And finally, don’t assume registration means you’re done. You’ll still need to register for tax, open a business bank account, and get ready to accept payments. Starting a business is a process, and registration is just one part.

What you’ll need before you begin

Regardless of where you register, the requirements are fairly similar. You’ll need a certified copy of your ID or passport, your business address, at least one proposed business name, and details for any directors involved.

Most small businesses go with a (Pty) Ltd, a type of profit company that’s flexible and provides liability protection. It’s the most common structure for new businesses in South Africa.

Once you’re registered, you’ll also want to open a business bank account. It keeps your finances organised and is often required when applying for funding. After that, it’s time to get paid, and that’s where iKhokha comes in.

Whether you’re selling online, at a market, or from a storefront, iKhokha makes it easy to accept debit and credit card payments. You can even sell prepaid vouchers or track your sales from one dashboard.

Pick what works for you

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to registering a business. It really depends on your budget, confidence with admin, and how hands-on you want to be.

If you’re a DIY kind of person, CIPC gets the job done at the lowest cost. If you want a smoother experience but still want to do it yourself, BizPortal hits the sweet spot. And if you’d rather skip the admin altogether, Govchain is well worth the investment.

Whichever route you go, getting registered is a big step. It opens the door to funding, credibility, and real growth. And once that’s sorted, we can help you take it from paperwork to profit, one sale at a time.

So go ahead: choose your platform, register your business, and get ready to grow.