Registering a company in Angola is a step-by-step process that involves selecting a company type, choosing a name, preparing documentation, and registering with the Angola Institute for Industrial Property and General Tax Administration of Angola. By following this guide and utilizing the provided resources, you should be well on your way to successfully establishing your business in Angola. Be sure to adhere to the requirements and guidelines to ensure a smooth registration process and a successful start for your company in this vibrant and growing market.
Step 1: Choose your company type
The first step in registering a company in Angola is to choose the type of company you want to register. The most common types are:
- Limited Liability Company (Sociedade por Quotas - LDA)
- Public Limited Company (Sociedade Anónima - SA)
- Branch of a foreign company
Step 2: Choose a company name
Before registering your company, you'll need to choose a suitable name. The Angola Institute for Industrial Property (IAPI) has guidelines for acceptable names, which can be found at this link: http://www.iapi.gov.ao
Step 3: Prepare the required documents
Next, prepare the necessary documentation for your chosen company type. The key documents are:
- Articles of Association (for LDA and SA)
- Application for Company Registration (for all types)
These forms can be downloaded from the IAPI's website: http://www.iapi.gov.ao
Step 4: Identify company officers and shareholders
You will need to identify at least one director (for LDA and SA) 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
Angola requires a minimum capital of AOA 1,000,000 for LDAs and AOA 10,000,000 for SAs. 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 Angola Institute for Industrial Property (IAPI). This can be done in person at their office or online via the following link: http://www.iapi.gov.ao
The fees for registering a company are as follows:
- LDA: AOA 80,000 (approximately $140)
- SA: AOA 200,000 (approximately $350)
- Branch of a foreign company: AOA 200,000 (approximately $350)
Step 7: Register for taxes After
your company is registered, you must register for taxes with the General Tax Administration of Angola (Administração Geral Tributária - AGT). This can be done in person at the local office. For more information, visit: https://www.agt.minfin.gov.ao
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 8 weeks, depending on the complexity of your application.