Africa
Company registries in Africa, starting with South Africa’s CIPC.
| Name | Region | Free online search | Who can see beneficial owners | Data access for developers | Checked on |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Africa | Africa | Partial | Obliged entities and authorities only | Bulk data only |
South Africa’s CIPC offers a free name search on its website, and its eServices Enterprise Enquiry (login required) shows status, addresses and registered directors. An electronic disclosure certificate costs R30, and the beneficial ownership register is open only to law enforcement agencies and vetted competent authorities.
Mauritius and Seychelles are listed under offshore jurisdictions.
Questions
How do I search a company in South Africa? Use the free name search on the CIPC website, or Enterprise Enquiry on CIPC eServices after logging in.
How much is a CIPC disclosure certificate? An electronic disclosure certificate costs R30.
Can I see beneficial owners in South Africa? No. CIPC’s register, launched on 1 April 2023, is open only to law enforcement agencies and vetted competent authorities.
Sources: each listing is compiled from the registry’s own website, the government body that runs it, official fee schedules and legislation, and the EU e-Justice portal. Every source is linked on the listing with the date it was checked. How we compile this reference