Do I need to submit original documents to CIPC?

No. Certified copies are accepted. Originals are not required for submission.

Can foreigners use a passport instead of a South African ID?

Yes. Foreign directors should submit certified passport copies. Proof of foreign residential address may also be required, and translations to English can help if documents are in another language.

How recent must the proof of address be?

Proof of address must be dated within the last 3 months. Common documents include a utility bill, bank statement, or municipal letter.

What if the proof of address isn’t in my name?

Provide the bill holder’s proof of address plus an affidavit confirming you reside at the address.

Is a Power of Attorney required if a third party registers my company?

CIPC may request a signed Power of Attorney (POA) authorising your accountant or consultant to act on your behalf during registration.

What are common document mistakes that cause delays?

Uncertified or expired ID/passport copies, proof of address older than 3 months, blurry scans, and missing director details are the most common issues.

Do I need to include shareholding information when registering a Pty Ltd?

Yes. You should indicate the share allocation for each shareholder. Even single-owner companies should allocate 100% of shares to the sole shareholder.

Do documents have to be certified and by whom?

Yes. Copies should be certified by a Commissioner of Oaths, SAPS, or an authorised official. Certification should generally be no older than 3 months.

What Documents Are Required for CIPC Company Registration?

Q: What documents are required for CIPC company registration?

You typically need certified copies of all directors’ IDs (or passports for foreigners), proof of residential address (not older than 3 months), and completed company details including registered address, directors’ particulars, and shareholding information.

Q: Can I register a company without proof of address?

No. Proof of residential address is required to verify the directors and the company’s registered details.

Johan De Wet
Oct 5
3 min read

Updated: Oct 13

Quick Answer: To register a company with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC), you need certified copies of all directors’ IDs or passports, proof of address (not older than 3 months), and completed company registration details such as the business name and shareholding information.

These documents help CIPC verify the identity of the directors and ensure that your business complies with the Companies Act of 2008.

Why CIPC Requires These Documents

CIPC’s job is to maintain an accurate national company database. The documents you submit prove:

The identity of company directors.
The legal existence of the business.
The location of the business for compliance and communication.

Without correct documentation, your registration will be rejected or delayed.

Essential Documents for CIPC Company Registration

Here’s the full list of what you’ll need in 2025:

1. Certified ID or Passport Copies for All Directors

South African citizens must submit a certified ID copy.
Foreign nationals must submit a certified passport copy.

Tip: Certification must be by a Commissioner of Oaths or SAPS, and not older than 3 months.

2. Proof of Residential Address

Must be dated within the last 3 months.
Accepted documents include a utility bill, bank statement, or municipal letter.

Tip: If you live with someone and the bill is not in your name, submit an affidavit confirming your residence.

3. Completed Company Registration Details

Proposed company name(s) (up to 4 if reserving).
Type of company (e.g., Private Company – Pty Ltd).
Registered address and postal address.
Directors’ details (full names, ID numbers, and roles).
Shareholding structure.

These details are entered directly into the CIPC eServices portal during registration.

4. Supporting Documents for Foreign Directors (if applicable)

Foreign nationals must include:

Certified passport copies.
Proof of foreign residential address (translated to English if necessary).
Valid South African visa or permit (for local operations).

Some banks may also require these documents later for business bank account verification.

5. Power of Attorney (If a Third Party Registers on Your Behalf)

If you’re using an accountant, consultant, or company like Smartbook to register your business, CIPC may request a signed Power of Attorney (POA) allowing them to act on your behalf.

This document ensures your agent can legally submit and sign documents on your company’s behalf.

Optional but Helpful Documents:

These aren’t required by CIPC, but they help you stay compliant from day one:

Shareholders’ agreement – clarifies ownership rights.
Memorandum of Incorporation (MOI) – outlines how the company is structured.
Tax number confirmation (SARS) – needed for tax compliance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

Uploading uncertified or expired ID copies.
Submitting blurry or incomplete documents.
Using proof of address older than 3 months.
Forgetting to include all directors’ details.

FAQs About CIPC Registration Documents:

1. Do I need original documents for CIPC?

No, certified copies are accepted — not originals.

2. Can I use my passport instead of an ID?

Yes, foreigners must use a certified passport copy.

3. How recent must proof of address be?

It must be dated within the last 3 months.

4. Can I register a company without proof of address?

No, this document is required to verify your business and director details.

5. What happens if I upload the wrong document?

CIPC will reject your application, and you’ll need to re-upload or reapply.

Final Thoughts

To register a company successfully with CIPC, prepare your certified IDs or passports, proof of address, and complete company details before applying.

Having these ready ensures your registration is approved quickly — often within 1 to 3 working days if done correctly.

If you want to skip the admin, a trusted service provider like Smartbook can handle your CIPC registration, document preparation, and compliance setup in one go.