How to register a business in Ghana with the ORC
Ghana's Office of the Registrar of Companies handles registration online through eRegistrar. The steps, documents and fees for 2026.
The Office of the Registrar of Companies (ORC) registers businesses in Ghana. Much of the process now runs through its online eRegistrar portal, which makes it possible to register without long visits to an office. Registering your business gives it legal recognition, lets you open a business bank account and is often required for contracts and loans. This guide explains how to register a business in Ghana with the ORC, the fees, the documents you need and what to do afterwards.
Your TIN is your Ghana Card
Ghanaian citizens and resident foreigners use their Ghana Card number as their Taxpayer Identification Number. That means every director, shareholder and owner needs a valid Ghana Card before registration. Non-resident investors apply for a TIN from the Ghana Revenue Authority using their passport. Read more in our guide to the Ghana Card and TIN.
Registering a business name (sole proprietorship)
A sole proprietorship is the simplest option for a one-person business. You trade under a registered name, but the business is not separate from you, so you are personally liable for its debts. The ORC said in June 2026 that registration for small businesses starts from about GH₵130, making formal registration affordable for most traders. Registration lets you open a bank account in the business name and present a more professional image to customers.
How to register a company limited by shares
1. Get your TIN ready. Make sure every director and shareholder has their Ghana Card number, which serves as their TIN.
2. Search and reserve the name. Search the ORC portal to check that your proposed name is available, then reserve it. A reserved name is held for 60 days, giving you time to prepare the documents.
3. Prepare the documents. You will need the company profile form, a constitution (either the ORC's model constitution or your own), consent letters and declarations from the directors, the company secretary and the auditor, and a beneficial ownership declaration showing who ultimately owns or controls the company.
4. Submit and pay. Submit the documents through eRegistrar and pay the fees. The standard registration fee is GH₵585, plus capital duty of 1% of the stated capital.
5. Receive your certificate. Once approved, you receive your certificate of incorporation, and the company can begin operating.
Sole proprietorship or company?
A company protects its owners' personal assets and makes it easier to raise money, bring in partners and win larger contracts. It also brings more obligations, including keeping proper accounts, appointing an auditor and filing annual returns with the ORC. A sole proprietorship is cheaper and simpler, which suits small traders testing a business idea. Many owners start as sole proprietors and incorporate once the business grows.
What to do after registration
Register for taxes. Register for the taxes that apply to your business with the GRA, including VAT if your turnover is above the threshold. Small traders with yearly turnover between GH₵20,000 and GH₵750,000 can pay a flat 3% presumptive tax on turnover instead of income tax, which simplifies record-keeping.
Register employees. If you hire staff, register them with SSNIT and deduct PAYE. Our Ghana PAYE calculator shows the deductions, and our guide to Ghana's three-tier pension scheme explains employer contributions.
Open business accounts. Open a business bank account and a mobile money merchant account, so business and personal money stay separate. Clear records help when you apply for credit; our loan calculator shows what repayments would cost.
Get local permits. Check with your metropolitan, municipal or district assembly for any business operating permit, and with sector regulators if your activity needs a licence.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to register a company in Ghana?
The standard fee is GH₵585 plus capital duty of 1% of stated capital, while small business registration starts from about GH₵130.
Do I need a Ghana Card to register a business?
Yes. Ghanaian citizens and resident foreigners use their Ghana Card number as their TIN.
How long is a reserved company name held?
60 days.
Sources
This article is general information, not financial advice.