How to Register a Company in Senegal in 2026: Steps, Costs & APIX Process

Registering a company in Senegal in 2026: what you need to know

Incorporating a business in Senegal has never been more accessible. Since the reform of the CFCE (Business Formalities Centre), the online process through the APIX portal allows you to register a SARL (limited liability company) in under 72 hours. This guide walks through every step, real costs in FCFA, and all required documents.

Choosing the right legal structure

Two structures dominate for Senegalese SMEs:

• SARL (Societe a Responsabilite Limitee): 1 to 50 shareholders, minimum share capital of 100,000 FCFA since the 2014 OHADA reform. Best for teams and multi-partner projects.
• SUARL (Single-Member SARL): sole shareholder, same minimum capital. Perfect for solo entrepreneurs who want a formal structure without partners.

Both forms limit shareholder liability to the amount of their contributions and grant access to public procurement.

Step 1 — Reserve your company name and draft the articles of association

Before starting any formality, check that your chosen company name is available in the RCCM (Commercial and Personal Property Credit Register). The search is free at the Tribunal de Commerce in Dakar or online.

Then draft the articles of association. Mandatory clauses include: company name, registered address, corporate purpose, share capital, duration (typically 99 years), and share allocation. A notary is not required if capital is below 5,000,000 FCFA — a private deed signed by all partners is sufficient.

Step 2 — Deposit the share capital

The capital must be deposited in a blocked account at an approved bank. Required documents: initialled articles of association, ID documents for each shareholder, subscription certificate. The bank issues a deposit certificate to be included in the APIX filing.

Cost: bank fees vary between 5,000 and 15,000 FCFA.

Step 3 — Register via APIX (online CFCE portal)

The apix.sn/cfce portal centralises all formalities. Documents to upload:

• Signed articles of association (PDF)
• Bank capital deposit certificate
• ID card or passport copies for all managers and shareholders
• Proof of address for the registered office (lease or domiciliation certificate)
• Fully completed CFCE form

Timeline: 24 to 72 business hours to receive the RCCM extract and provisional NINEA.

APIX fee: approximately 48,000 FCFA for a SARL with 100,000 FCFA capital (varies with declared capital).

Step 4 — Obtain the definitive NINEA tax ID

The NINEA (National Identification Number for Companies and Associations) is issued by the DGID (General Directorate of Taxes). It is required for invoicing, opening a business bank account, and bidding on public contracts.

After APIX registration, the DGID transmits the definitive NINEA within 3 to 5 business days.

Step 5 — Post-incorporation formalities

• Business bank account: must be opened within 30 days (see our dedicated guide)
• Tax existence declaration: at the Tax Services Centre in your commune
• IPRES/CSS affiliation: mandatory if you have employees (pension and social security contributions)
• Payroll register: required from the first employee
• Publication in a legal gazette (JAL): mandatory for SA companies, optional for SARL

Cost summary table

FAQ

Q: Can I incorporate a company alone in Senegal?

Yes, the SUARL (single-member SARL) is designed exactly for that. One shareholder, all the same benefits as a standard SARL, minimum capital 100,000 FCFA.

Q: How long does it actually take to get the RCCM and start invoicing?

With the APIX portal, expect 2 to 5 business days for the RCCM extract and 5 to 8 days for the definitive NINEA. In practice, many entrepreneurs start signing contracts as soon as they receive the APIX acknowledgement receipt.

Q: Is a notary required to set up a SARL?

No — if capital is below 5,000,000 FCFA, a private deed signed by all shareholders is sufficient. Above that threshold, a notarised deed is required.

Q: Can I register the SARL at my home address?

Yes, home registration is legal for up to 5 years. After that, you need a dedicated registered office or a professional domiciliation service.

Q: What is the difference between RCCM and NINEA?

The RCCM (commercial register) identifies your company to courts and commercial partners. The NINEA is your tax ID with the DGID — it is the number printed on invoices and tax returns.

---

Let's talk about your project. Kolonell supports entrepreneurs from company registration to their full digital presence. Reach us on WhatsApp +221 77 596 93 33.