The verdict in three sentences
The CFCE in Douala (Business Creation Formalities Centre, run with the API and GUCE) centralizes RCCM registration, the taxpayer card and CNPS affiliation. Since the reforms, the SARL minimum capital has been lowered and can be freely set from 100,000 FCFA. Expect 72 hours to two weeks and a budget of 150,000 to 400,000 FCFA depending on notary use.
The CFCE, single entry point
Douala, the economic capital, concentrates the country's entrepreneurial activity. The CFCE acts there as a one-stop shop, bringing together the registry, tax, statistics and social security. Cameroon's major reform allowed SARL creation without a mandatory notary when capital stays below a threshold, sharply cutting costs.
| Item | 2026 detail (order of magnitude) |
|---|---|
| One-stop shop | CFCE Douala (API / GUCE) |
| SARL delay | 72 h to 2 weeks |
| Minimum SARL capital | From 100,000 FCFA (free) |
| Notary | Optional below capital threshold |
| Documents | RCCM, taxpayer card, CNPS |
| Common forms | SARL, sole proprietorship, SA |
Costs and steps in detail
A standard file includes statutes, partners' IDs, proof of registered office and a capital subscription declaration. The CFCE caps its fees, but the notary — when required — is the heaviest line on the bill.
| Step | Estimated 2026 cost | Delay |
|---|---|---|
| Sole proprietorship at CFCE | ≈ 50,000 to 80,000 FCFA | 72 h |
| SARL registration at CFCE | ≈ 100,000 to 150,000 FCFA | 3-10 days |
| Private statutes | 0 to 60,000 FCFA | 1-2 days |
| Notary (if required) | 150,000 to 300,000 FCFA | 3-5 days |
| Taxpayer card | Included | — |
| Realistic SARL total | 150,000 to 400,000 FCFA | 1-2 weeks |
The Kolonell referral program
In Cameroon, large firms, banks and institutions need premium websites. Introduce a client to Kolonell for an institutional project and you earn 8% of the contract. On a 10,000,000 FCFA institutional budget, that is 800,000 FCFA for a single qualified introduction.
| Division | Referrer commission | Recurring |
|---|---|---|
| Showcase site | 15% | 5% |
| E-commerce | 12% | 5% |
| Marketplace | 10% | — |
| Institutional | 8% | — |
Mini case study
Estelle, an accountant in Douala, creates her SARL at the CFCE in one week for 250,000 FCFA (notary included to secure a contribution in kind). She then refers a large agri-food group to Kolonell for an institutional site billed at 12,000,000 FCFA. Her referrer commission: 8% = 960,000 FCFA, almost four times the cost of setting up her own company.
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FAQ
Is the SARL minimum capital really lowered in Cameroon?
Yes. The reform lets you set capital freely, often from 100,000 FCFA, and skip the notary below a threshold, sharply reducing costs.
How long to register at Douala's CFCE?
Between 72 hours and two weeks depending on file completeness and chosen form. A sole proprietorship is fastest.
What documents do you get?
The RCCM, the taxpayer card (tax number) and CNPS affiliation for employee social security.
Can you incorporate without traveling to Douala?
CFCE branches exist in several cities (notably Yaoundé) and digitization is progressing, but a proxy is often still needed for filing.
Do you need a bank account to deposit capital?
For a SARL, a capital deposit or subscription certificate is generally required; Cameroonian banks issue this document quickly.
Let's talk about your project. Register your company in Cameroon, then introduce your institutional contacts to Kolonell. 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.