How to Register a Company in Cote d’lvoire
Registering a company in Cote d'Ivoire is a step-by-step process that involves selecting a company type, choosing a name, preparing documentation, and registering with the Cote d'Ivoire Centre for the Promotion of Investment and General Tax Directorate. By following this guide and utilizing the provided resources, you should be well on your way to successfully establishing your business in Cote d'Ivoire. Be sure to adhere to the requirements and guidelines to ensure a smooth registration process and a successful start for your company in this dynamic and growing African country.
Step 1: Choose your company type
The first step in registering a company in Cote d'Ivoire is to choose the type of company you want to register. The most common types are:
- Limited Liability Company (Société à Responsabilité Limitée - SARL)
- Public Limited Company (Société Anonyme - SA)
- Simplified Joint Stock Company (Société par Actions Simplifiée - SAS)
- Branch of a foreign company
Step 2: Choose a company name
Before registering your company, you'll need to choose a suitable name. The Cote d'Ivoire Centre for the Promotion of Investment (CEPICI) has guidelines for acceptable names, which can be found at this link: https://www.cepici.gouv.ci
Step 3: Prepare the required documents
Next, prepare the necessary documentation for your chosen company type. The key documents are:
- Articles of Association (for SARL, SA, and SAS)
- Application for Company Registration (for all types)
These forms can be downloaded from the CEPICI's website: https://www.cepici.gouv.ci
Step 4: Identify company officers and shareholders
You will need to identify at least one director (for SARL, SA, and SAS) or one representative (for Branch of a foreign company). Directors or representatives must be at least 18 years old. Shareholders can be individuals or corporate entities.
Step 5: Capital requirements
Cote d'Ivoire requires a minimum capital of XOF 1,000,000 for SARLs, XOF 10,000,000 for SAs, and no minimum capital for SASs. There is no minimum capital requirement for branches of foreign companies.
Step 6: Register your company
Once your documents are ready, you can submit your application to the Cote d'Ivoire Centre for the Promotion of Investment (CEPICI). This can be done in person at their office or online via the following link: https://www.cepici.gouv.ci
The fees for registering a company are as follows:
- SARL: XOF 200,000 (approximately)
- SA: XOF 300,000 (approximately)
- SAS: XOF 250,000 (approximately)
- Branch of a foreign company: XOF 300,000 (approximately)
Step 7: Register for taxes
After your company is registered, you must register for taxes with the Cote d'Ivoire General Tax Directorate (DGI). This can be done in person at the local Tax Office or online via the following link: https://www.dgi.gouv.ci
Step 8: Obtain necessary permits and licenses
Depending on your business activities, you may need to obtain additional permits or licenses. Check with the relevant authorities and industry regulators for specific requirements.
Time-frame:
The entire registration process, from preparing documents to receiving your Certificate of Incorporation, can take anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the complexity of your application.
