How to Change Directors with CIPC (Step-by-Step)

Need to add or remove a director from your company?You can do it easily through the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) — as long as you follow the correct process.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you exactly how to change directors with CIPC, what documents you’ll need, and how Smartbook can handle it for you in just a few hours.

When Should You Change a Company Director? 

A change of directors happens when a company:

• Appoints a new director (e.g. new partner or shareholder)

• Removes an existing director (resignation or termination)

• Updates director details (ID, address, or contact info)

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Under the Companies Act (2008), every South African company must keep its director records accurate and up to date with CIPC.

Failure to do so can cause issues when:

• Opening or updating bank accounts

• Registering for tenders or tax compliance

• Filing annual returns

Who Can Authorize a Director Change?

Only the current active directors of the company can approve a director change.

This must be done by:

• A board resolution, or

• A shareholder resolution (for private companies where ownership and directorship differ).

If a director resigns, the company must file the change within 10 business days at CIPC.

Documents You Need to Change Directors 

Document	Purpose
Certified ID copy of the new director(s)	To verify identity
Certified ID copy of the resigning director (if applicable)	For confirmation
Board or shareholder resolution	To authorise the change
Completed CoR39 form	The official CIPC change-of-directors form
Proof of address (for new director)	Optional but recommended

How to Change Directors with CIPC (Step-by-Step)

Here’s how to do it manually through the CIPC eServices or Smartbiz Portal.

Step 1: Log into CIPC eServices 

Go to https://eservices.cipc.co.za.

Log in using your CIPC customer code and password.

Step 2: Select “Company Director Changes”

From the menu, choose “Companies” → “Director Changes (CoR39).”

You’ll be asked to enter your company registration number.

Step 3: Capture the Changes

You’ll see your company’s current list of directors.Here you can:

• Add new directors

• Remove existing directors

• Edit contact details or addresses

  
  

Make sure all names, ID numbers, and email addresses are correct before continuing.

Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents 

CIPC requires you to upload:

• The board resolution approving the change

• Certified ID copies of all directors being added or removed

• The CoR39 form (downloadable and fillable on the portal)

Step 5: Submit and Pay 

After uploading, click “Submit”.There’s no filing fee for director changes, but you must ensure documents are correctly signed and certified.

You’ll receive a tracking number to monitor progress.

Step 6: Download Confirmation (CoR39 Certificate) 

Once approved, CIPC will email you the updated CoR39 confirmation.

This serves as proof of director change and should be kept on record.

How Smartbook Can Handle It for You 

Changing directors through CIPC can be tricky if documents are incomplete or incorrectly signed.

Smartbook makes it simple — we:

• Prepare your CoR39 form automatically

• Draft your resolution correctly

• Submit all documents to CIPC on your behalf

• Send you the approved CoR39 certificate once completed

How Long Does It Take?

CIPC typically processes director changes within 1–5 business days, depending on workload.

With Smartbook, most updates are completed within 24–48 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can anyone change company directors?

No. Only existing directors or authorised shareholders can approve a director change.

2. How long does it take for CIPC to approve a director change?

Usually between 1–5 business days if all documents are submitted correctly.

3. Do all directors have to sign the CoR39 form?

Yes. All affected directors must sign the form or authorise it via board resolution.

4. Is there a cost to change directors with CIPC?

No, CIPC doesn’t charge a filing fee, but professional service fees may apply if you use Smartbook.

5. Can Smartbook change directors for me?

Yes. Smartbook can prepare all documents, submit them to CIPC, and send you the approved certificate.

Final Thoughts

Keeping your CIPC director records up to date is a legal requirement — and it’s essential for banking, compliance, and tax purposes.

If you’d rather not deal with the paperwork, Smartbook can handle your director changes quickly and professionally.