Registering a company in Cambodia is a step-by-step process that involves selecting a company type, choosing a name, preparing documentation, and registering with the Ministry of Commerce and General Department of Taxation. By following this guide and utilizing the provided resources, you should be well on your way to successfully establishing your business in Cambodia. Be sure to adhere to the requirements and guidelines to ensure a smooth registration process and a successful start for your company in this rapidly developing and business-friendly country.
Step 1: Choose your company type
The first step in registering a company in Cambodia is to choose the type of company you want to register. The most common types are:
- Private Limited Company (Co., Ltd.)
- Public Limited Company (Plc.)
- Branch of a foreign company
- Sole Proprietorship
Step 2: Choose a company name
Before registering your company, you'll need to choose a suitable name. The Ministry of Commerce (MOC) has guidelines for acceptable names, which can be found at this link: https://www.moc.gov.kh
Step 3: Prepare the required documents
Next, prepare the necessary documentation for your chosen company type. The key documents are:
- Articles of Association (for Private Limited Company and Public Limited Company)
- Application for Company Registration (for all types)
These forms can be downloaded from the MOC's website: https://www.moc.gov.kh
Step 4: Identify company officers and shareholders
You will need to identify at least one director (for Private Limited Company and Public Limited Company) 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
Cambodia requires a minimum capital of KHR 4,000,000 (approximately $1,000) for Private Limited Companies and KHR 20,000,000 (approximately $5,000) for Public Limited Companies. There is no minimum capital requirement for branches of foreign companies or sole proprietorships.
Step 6: Register your company
Once your documents are ready, you can submit your application to the Ministry of Commerce (MOC). This can be done online via the following link: https://www.businessregistration.moc.gov.kh
The fees for registering a company are as follows:
- Private Limited Company: $400 (approximately)
- Public Limited Company: $1,200 (approximately)
- Branch of a foreign company: $1,000 (approximately)
- Sole Proprietorship: $100 (approximately)
Step 7: Register for taxes
After your company is registered, you must register for taxes with the General Department of Taxation (GDT). This can be done in person at the local Tax Office or online via the following link: https://www.tax.gov.kh
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 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the complexity of your application.