🇿🇦 Business Structures in South Africa
Compare the available legal structures for company formation in South Africa. Each structure has different requirements, costs, and tax treatment.
Private Company (Pty Ltd)
Proprietary Limited
Min. 1 shareholder
No statutory minimum share capital requirement
3–7 business days
Most SMEs and startups operating in or from South AfricaBusinesses targeting the South African consumer marketCompanies using South Africa as a base for sub-Saharan African operations
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External Company (Branch) (Branch)
External Company
Min. 1 shareholder
Not applicable — branch of a foreign parent
2–4 weeks
Foreign companies testing the South African market before full subsidiary formationMultinational corporations needing a local operational presenceCompanies providing services under a contract that requires a South African registered entity
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