The verdict in three sentences
In Ghana, the Registrar General's Department (RGD) acts as the main gateway: filing, company number, and tax registration in one flow, tied to the GRA for your TIN. A sole proprietorship can be set up in 3 to 7 days for around 200 to 400 GHS, while a limited company costs more but protects your assets. Watch the tax registration (TIN via GRA) and a registered address, often underestimated, which condition everything downstream.
The RGD registration steps
The RGD has digitised much of the process. For a sole proprietorship, a complete filing often clears in 3 to 5 days.
| Step | What you get | Indicative 2026 cost | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Choose structure | Sole prop / Ltd / PLC | 0 GHS | Immediate |
| TIN registration | Tax identification number | Free (GRA) | 1 - 2 days |
| RGD filing | Application lodged | Bundled fees | 1 day |
| Company number | Registration number | Included | 3 - 7 days |
| Business certificate | Certificate | Included | 3 - 7 days |
| Collect documents | Full pack | 0 GHS | 1 day |
Order of magnitude 2026: a sole proprietorship costs about 200 - 400 GHS, a limited company 600 - 1 200 GHS with drafting.
Choosing your structure in Ghana
| Structure | Minimum capital | Liability | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sole proprietorship | None | Unlimited | Freelancer, referral agent |
| Company Ltd by shares | Stated capital | Limited | Solo protecting assets |
| Ltd (multi) | Stated capital | Limited | Partners |
| PLC | Higher | Limited | Large projects |
Comparison: Ghana (RGD) vs Ivory Coast (CEPICI)
| Criterion | Ghana - RGD | Ivory Coast - CEPICI |
|---|---|---|
| Portal | Registrar General's Dept | CEPICI |
| Simple business cost | ~200 - 400 GHS | 15 000 - 50 000 FCFA |
| Timeline | 3 - 7 days | 24 - 72 h |
| Tax ID | TIN (GRA) | DFE / taxpayer account |
| Registry | Company number (RGD) | RCCM (OHADA) |
| Process language | English | French |
Mini case study
Ama, a developer in Accra, resells websites as a referral agent. She registers a sole proprietorship at the RGD: TIN free, filing fees around 300 GHS total, company certificate in 5 days. On her first showcase-site commission of 500 000 FCFA equivalent, she earns 15%, about 75 000 FCFA; her registration pays for itself on the first sale, and her client now requires a proper invoice.
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FAQ
What does registration cost at the RGD in 2026?
Sole proprietorship: 200 to 400 GHS depending on services. Limited company: 600 to 1 200 GHS with drafting. The RGD bundles most fees into one payment.
What is a realistic timeline?
3 to 7 days for a sole proprietorship with a complete filing, slightly more for a limited company. Delays come from address issues or missing documents.
Is a TIN essential?
Yes. The TIN from the GRA drives your taxpayer account and your ability to invoice legally. Without it, no regular invoicing.
Can it be done remotely?
Part of the process is online, but address verification and document collection often mean a physical step in Accra. Use a proxy if you are abroad.
Ltd or sole proprietorship for a referral agent?
To start solo with low overheads, a sole proprietorship is enough. Once volume grows or institutions require a company, a limited company becomes relevant.
Let's talk about your project. We help you formalise and launch your web business in Ghana. WhatsApp +221 77 596 93 33.
Mohamed Bah
Fondateur, Kolonell
Passionate about digital and entrepreneurship in Africa, Mohamed has been helping Sénégalese businesses with their digital transformation since 2020. Founder of Kolonell, he believes every SME deserves a professional and accessible online présence.
