What documents do I need to register a business with CAC?

In 2026, the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has shifted to a fully digital "end-to-end" registration system through the i-CRP portal. The documents you need depend on whether you are registering a simple Business Name (Sole Proprietorship/Partnership) or a Limited Liability Company (LTD).

1. For a Business Name (Proprietorship/Enterprise)

This is the simplest form, often used by freelancers, artisans, and small traders.

• Proof of Identity: A scanned copy of a valid government-issued ID (NIN is mandatory in 2026, though International Passport or Driver’s License may serve as secondary proof).
• Passport Photograph: A clear, digital passport-sized photo of the proprietor(s).
• Signature Specimen: A scanned image of your signature on a plain white paper.
• Business Address: Proof of address is often required (utility bill from the last 3 months).

2. For a Limited Liability Company (LTD)

This creates a separate legal entity and is the standard for most startups and growing businesses.

• Directors’ & Shareholders’ Details:
  • Valid IDs: Scanned IDs for every director and shareholder (NIN is the primary requirement).
  • Passport Photos: Digital photos for all key officials.
  • Signatures: Scanned signatures of all directors and the company secretary.
• Constitutional Documents:
  • Memorandum and Articles of Association (MEMART): You can use the CAC’s standard templates on the portal or upload a custom version prepared by a lawyer.
• Share Capital Information: Details on how shares are distributed among the owners.
• Company Secretary Details: While optional for small companies, it is recommended for administrative ease.

3. The 2026 "Must-Haves"

• NIN Integration: Your National Identification Number (NIN) is now the primary key for all registrations. The portal verifies your data directly with the NIMC database.
• Digital Account: You must create an account on the i-CRP Portal before you can start.
• AV Code: You must first perform a Name Reservation (costs ₦1,000). Once approved, you get an Approval Validation (AV) Code, which you’ll need to start the main registration.

Summary of Costs (2026)

Pro-Tip for PoS Operators: As of January 1, 2026, the CAC has made it mandatory for all PoS (Point of Sale) agents to be registered. If you are a PoS operator, you must have at least a "Business Name" certificate to continue operating legally.