Guide to Incorporating a Private Limited Company in Cameroon

I have been receiving a lot of questions on the process of incorporating a private limited company in Cameroon. I thought, why not come up with a guide?

A private limited company is one of the most popular business structure used in Cameroon. Many people see it as ideal because it is flexible and offers limited liability.

Below is a step-by-step guide that will answer common questions about how to incorporate a private limited company in Cameroon under OHADA law.

Q: What documents do I need to get started?

Before heading to the one-stop shop, you’ll need to put together these important documents:

• A copy of your national ID card or passport.
• Memorandum and Articles of association.
• Proof of location for your business.
• A non-conviction certificate (criminal record) for the owners / shareholders.
• Tenancy agreement.
• A bank certificate proving you have deposited the first share capital. This can be waived depending on the location where you want your business registered, as well as the capital amount.
• If you’re unsure about drafting the articles of association, it’s always good to consult an expert to align them with your goals and OHADA law requirements.

Q: Do I need to deposit share capital?

According to OHADA, private limited companies must deposit their authorized share capital in a local bank. The amount depends on your business’s needs. Once the amount is deposited, the bank will issue a certificate that confirms this. Like I said above, this can be waived depending on the location and the capital amount.

Once all documents required have been submitted, you pay the registration fees. After registration is done, you will be issued a company registration certificate and tax identification number after processing.

Q: What about tax registration? Is that automatic?

Not quite. Once you have completed the registration with, you’ll also need to register with the tax authorities. This step is essential for getting your company’s tax identification number (TIN) and business license (patente).

To obtain these documents, you will need to deposit the following documents with your company’s chosen tax center:

• Your company registration certificate.
• Proof of your business location.
• A copies of your articles of association.
• Once you’re registered, you can legally run and follow Cameroonian tax regulations.

Q: Do I need any extra licenses?

It depends on your industry. Some businesses, like those in finance, healthcare, or food services, need extra licenses or permits to operate legally in Cameroon. It is important for you to consult with the authorities or professionals to make sure you have everything in order.

Read Also: Top 5 Things to Consider When Registering a Business in Cameroon

Q: Can I open the company’s bank account after registration?

Sure. Once the company is registered, you can go ahead and open a company bank account. Use the certificate from the bank where you deposited your share capital and the company’s registration documents. It’s a good idea to keep your personal and business finances separate, so this is an important step.

Q: Do I need to publish my company’s registration in the national gazette?

Under the Cameroonian law, after the company is registered, it is obligatory for it to be published in the national gazette or an approved national newspaper. This is to officially announce the creation of a new business to the public.

Q: Is appointing a manager necessary?

According to the OHADA Law, all private limited companies must have at least a manager, who is in charge of handling the day-to-day running of the company. This person can be one of the shareholders or someone external.

Make sure the manager’s role is clearly defined in the articles of association. This will help prevent any misunderstandings or disputes down the road.

Q: After registration, what do I need to do?

After officially registering your company, you will need to stay compliant. You will have to keep up-to-date financial records, filing monthly tax returns, etc. For your business to run smoothly and avoid penalties or fines, you will need to stay compliant.

Q: Can you help me with the entire process?

Sure! At OpenHub Consulting, we help you from preparing the required documents to final registration. We help entrepreneurs go through the legal and administrative processes of incorporating a private limited company in Cameroon. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us now! We always make sure everything is handled efficiently.

These steps will help make the process of incorporating a company in Cameroon is straightforward. We can help you prepare the documents to submitting it. Want to stay compliant? Let us help you get started now!