> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://chale.tech/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # Registering your startup in Ghana: what the Companies Act, 2019 changed - URL: https://chale.tech/registering-your-startup-in-ghana/ - Published: 2026-10-10T00:26:46.000Z - Updated: 2026-10-10T19:53:10.000Z - Description: Before you raise money, sign contracts or open a business account, you need a registered company. What the Companies Act, 2019 changed, and the basic steps for founders. - Author: Isaac Nana Yaw Annor - Tags: Startups, Founders Many Ghanaian startups begin as a WhatsApp group and a good idea. At some point, usually when money or a big customer appears, you need a properly registered company. Investors want it, banks need it for a business account, and big clients will not sign contracts without it. This guide covers the basics. It is general information, not legal advice; requirements and fees change, so confirm with the registrar and a lawyer or company secretary. ## The law: the Companies Act, 2019 (Act 992) The **Companies Act, 2019 (Act 992)** replaced Ghana’s old companies law and modernised how companies are formed and run. Key changes founders should know: - **A company “constitution”** replaces the old Memorandum and Articles of Association. You can adopt a model constitution or draft your own. - **No more Certificate to Commence Business.** The Act removed that extra step. - **Electronic filing.** The Act allows incorporation, name reservation, annual returns and searches to be done electronically. - **A new registrar.** The Act established the **Office of the Registrar of Companies (ORC)** to handle company registration. Business registration was previously done at the Registrar-General’s Department. Check which office and portal currently handles your filing. ## Choosing a structure - **Sole proprietorship (business name):** simple and cheap, but you are personally responsible for the business’s debts. Not ideal if you plan to raise investment. - **Company limited by shares:** the usual choice for startups. The company is a separate legal person, shareholders’ liability is limited, and you can issue shares to co-founders and investors. - **Company limited by guarantee:** usually for non-profits. ## The basic steps 1. **Choose and check your name.** Search that it is available and reserve it if needed. 2. **Prepare your details:** directors, shareholders, company secretary, registered address, and the Ghana Card details of the people involved. 3. **Decide your constitution:** the model constitution, or a bespoke one (ask a lawyer if you have investors or complex share arrangements). 4. **Complete the registration forms and pay the fees** through the registrar’s online system or office. 5. **Receive your certificate of incorporation.** 6. **Register for tax** with the Ghana Revenue Authority, and for social security (SSNIT) when you hire staff. Some steps, especially involving notarised documents or foreign shareholders, may still need in-person visits or a local lawyer. Plan for that if you have investors abroad. ## Founder tips - **Write a founders’ agreement** before you register: who owns what, who does what, and what happens if someone leaves. - **Think about vesting** so a co-founder who leaves early does not keep a large stake. - **Keep company and personal money separate** from day one with a business bank account. - **Diarise your annual returns.** Missing filings can lead to penalties. - **Register with the Data Protection Commission** if you handle customers’ personal data, which almost every startup does. - **Protect your brand** by looking into trademark registration for your name and logo. > Register early, keep good records, and your future investors will thank you. *This guide was checked in October 2026\. Menus and services change, so if something looks different on your phone, check with your provider.* ## Common questions ### Can I register a company online? The Companies Act, 2019 allows electronic filing, and registration can largely be done online. Some steps may still need documents or visits, especially with foreign shareholders. ### Do I need a lawyer? Not always for a simple company, but a lawyer or company secretary is wise if you have several co-founders, investors or a bespoke constitution. ### What is a company secretary? A person responsible for company filings and records. Companies are expected to have one; check the requirements under Act 992 for your company type. ### Do I need to file anything every year? Yes. Companies file annual returns, and missing them can lead to penalties. Put the dates in your calendar. ## Sources - [Graphic Online: Business incorporation under the Companies Act, 2019 (Act 992)](https://www.graphic.com.gh/features/features/business-incorporation-in-ghana-under-the-new-companies-act-2019-act-992-reforms-in-processes-and-procedures-at-the-registrar-general-s-dept.html?ref=chale.tech) - [Lex Africa: Business registration in Ghana](https://lexafrica.com/insights/business-registration-in-ghana/?ref=chale.tech)