The verdict in three sentences
The RGD (Registrar General's Department) lets you form a company in Accra within 3 to 10 days, but a sole proprietorship and a limited company differ in cost and obligations. For an e-commerce project or a digital agency, the limited company (LTD) reassures banks and large accounts despite a higher cost. In 2026, expect a rough 60 to 500 GHS depending on structure and advisory support.
Sole proprietorship or LTD at the RGD
The one-stop process groups the business registration, TIN and statutory filings. The real trade-off is about liability and credibility.
| Criterion (2026 order of magnitude) | Sole Proprietorship | Limited (LTD) |
|---|---|---|
| RGD registration cost | 60-120 GHS | 330-500 GHS |
| Minimum stated capital | none | nominal |
| Number of members | 1 | 1 to 50 |
| Liability | unlimited | limited to shares |
| Timeline | 3-7 days | 5-10 days |
| Merchant account opening | possible | easier |
| Tender credibility | low | strong |
To sell online and collect in the company's name via a PSP, the LTD simplifies merchant account onboarding and the banking relationship.
Steps and side costs
After registration, several obligations condition a compliant business.
| Step | Estimated 2026 cost | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Business registration certificate | 60-500 GHS | 3-10 days |
| TIN issuance | free | 1-5 days |
| Company regulations / documents | 50-200 GHS | 1-3 days |
| SSNIT registration (if staff) | based on payroll | monthly |
| Merchant account (PSP) onboarding | 0 GHS | 2-7 days |
| Business Operating Permit (local) | by activity | annual |
The TIN and certificate are essential to invoice cleanly and to reclaim VAT on your professional purchases.
The Kolonell referral program
Between the RGD and launch day, every new Ghanaian entrepreneur needs an online presence. By referring them to Kolonell, you earn: 15% on a showcase sale + 5% recurring, 12% on e-commerce, 10% on marketplaces, 8% on institutional projects. Three e-commerce stores referred at 1,500,000 FCFA (approx. EUR 2,290) each amount to 540,000 FCFA in commissions.
Mini case study
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Ama, a coffee roaster in Accra, wants to sell online. She registers an LTD at the RGD: about 450 GHS in fees and 150 GHS in documents, i.e. 600 GHS over 5 days. With her TIN and certificate she opens a merchant account and launches her store. First month: 45 orders at 120 GHS, i.e. 5,400 GHS collected — the setup fees paid back in a month.
FAQ
What is the real RGD timeline in 2026?
For a sole proprietorship, expect 3 to 7 days; for an LTD with documents, 5 to 10 days. The one-stop process groups registration, TIN and statutory filings.
Is there a minimum capital for an LTD?
The stated capital is nominal in practice, so you do not need to lock a large sum to start.
Sole proprietorship or LTD to sell online?
The LTD is preferable as soon as you target B2B clients, banks or tenders: it caps your liability and eases merchant onboarding.
Can I charge VAT immediately?
Yes, once your TIN is issued and depending on your tax regime. It also lets you reclaim VAT on your business expenses.
How much does professional support cost?
A firm often charges 50-200 GHS for documents and filing. It is optional for a sole proprietorship and near-essential for an LTD.
Let's talk about your project. Once registered at the RGD, we connect your store to mobile money so you collect fast. 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.
