CAC INCORPORATION PORTAL
CAC Incorporation Portal: Your Complete Guide to Online Company Registration in Nigeria
Introduction
The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has made company registration in Nigeria faster, easier, and more transparent through its CAC Incorporation Portal.
Gone are the days when you had to visit CAC offices in person, submit physical documents, and wait weeks for approval. Today, entrepreneurs, startups, NGOs, and large corporations can complete their CAC incorporation process online from anywhere in the world.
In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about the CAC Incorporation Portal—how it works, how to register a business through it, its benefits, costs, and tips for a successful online incorporation.
What is the CAC Incorporation Portal?
The CAC Incorporation Portal is an online platform provided by the Corporate Affairs Commission for business registration and company incorporation in Nigeria.
It was introduced as part of the Nigerian government’s Ease of Doing Business reforms to simplify the process of starting and running a business.
Through the portal, users can:
- Reserve a business name
- Register a business name, company, or incorporated trustee
- Upload required incorporation documents
- Pay CAC registration fees
- Download incorporation certificates
The official CAC Incorporation Portal can be accessed at:
https://pre.cac.gov.ng
Why Use the CAC Incorporation Portal?
The portal offers several advantages for business owners:
1. Convenience
You can complete the entire registration process without visiting a CAC office.
2. Speed
Most incorporations are processed within 3–7 working days if documents are in order.
3. Transparency
You can track the status of your application online.
4. Accessibility
Open 24/7 and accessible from anywhere in Nigeria or abroad.
5. Cost Savings
No need for travel expenses or middlemen—though you can still hire accredited agents if you prefer.
Types of Registration Available on the CAC Incorporation Portal
The portal supports different types of business registrations:
1. Business Name Registration
- For sole proprietors and small partnerships.
- Simple process and lower fees.
2. Private Company Limited by Shares (Ltd)
- Most popular option for SMEs and startups.
- Limited liability for shareholders.
3. Public Company Limited by Shares (PLC)
- Suitable for large companies intending to sell shares to the public.
4. Company Limited by Guarantee
- Used by non-profits and organizations without share capital.
5. Incorporated Trustees
- For religious bodies, charities, clubs, and associations.
Requirements for Using the CAC Incorporation Portal
Before starting your application, prepare the following:
- Two proposed business names (in case your first choice is unavailable).
- Nature of your business activities.
- Registered office address.
- Details of directors or trustees (full name, date of birth, nationality, address).
- Valid means of identification (NIN, passport, driver’s license, voter’s card).
- Passport photograph (digital copy).
- Email address and phone number.
- Share capital and shareholding details (for companies).
- Memorandum and Articles of Association (MEMART) for companies.
Step-by-Step Guide to Register a Company on the CAC Incorporation Portal
Step 1: Create an Account
- Visit https://pre.cac.gov.ng.
- Sign up with your email address and create a password.
- Verify your account via the email confirmation link.
Step 2: Reserve Your Business Name
- Click on “Name Reservation.”
- Search to check if your desired name is available.
- Pay the ₦500 reservation fee.
- Wait for CAC approval (usually within 24–48 hours).
- Approved names are reserved for 60 days.
Step 3: Fill Incorporation Forms
- Select your registration type (business name, company, or trustee).
- Enter company details, directors’ information, and shareholding structure.
- Provide the registered office address and business objectives.
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
- Upload scanned copies of your identification, passport photographs, MEMART, and proof of address.
- Ensure documents are clear and legible.
Step 5: Pay Filing Fees
- Fees vary depending on the type of company and share capital.
- Payment can be made via the portal using debit/credit card or bank transfer.
Step 6: Submit Application
- Review your details before final submission.
- Submit for CAC review and approval.
Step 7: Download Your Certificate
- Once approved, you can log in and download your:
- Certificate of Incorporation
- CAC Status Report
- Approved MEMART (for companies)
Cost of Using the CAC Incorporation Portal
Here’s a breakdown of typical CAC online registration fees:
| Registration Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Business Name | ₦10,000 – ₦30000 |
| Private Ltd (₦1m share capital) | ₦25,000 – ₦90000 |
| Incorporated Trustees | ₦30,000 – ₦150,000 |
| Public Company | ₦50,000+ |
Note: Costs increase with higher share capital.
Tips for a Successful CAC Incorporation Portal Application
- Choose a Unique Name – Avoid names that are too similar to existing businesses.
- Use Accurate Details – Your personal information must match your identification documents.
- Prepare High-Quality Scans – Blurry documents can cause delays.
- Clearly Define Business Activities – Be specific about what your company will do.
- File Annual Returns – Keep your company active after incorporation.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
- Name Rejection: Choose two or three backup names.
- Document Rejection: Use clear scans and ensure all pages are included.
- Portal Errors: Try again later or use a different browser.
- Payment Issues: Use reliable payment methods and confirm transactions.
Benefits of the CAC Incorporation Portal for Entrepreneurs
- Start and finish your registration from home or office.
- Faster processing times mean you can launch your business sooner.
- Increased transparency and ability to track applications online.
- Encourages formalization of small businesses.
Post-Incorporation Obligations
After registration through the CAC Incorporation Portal:
- Open a corporate bank account.
- Register for Tax Identification Number (TIN) with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).
- Get relevant business permits or licenses.
- File annual returns with CAC to avoid penalties.
SEO Keywords for CAC Incorporation Portal
If you are providing incorporation services, target these keywords:
- CAC incorporation portal
- CAC online registration Nigeria
- CAC company registration portal
- How to register a business online in Nigeria
- CAC business name portal
Include them naturally in your website content, blog articles, and service pages.
Conclusion
The CAC Incorporation Portal has revolutionized business registration in Nigeria. Entrepreneurs can now complete incorporation quickly, easily, and without unnecessary paperwork or delays.
Whether you’re starting a small business, forming a limited liability company, or registering an NGO, the portal is your gateway to legal recognition and credibility.
