You can start a business in Benin entirely online, on the official one-stop shop monentreprise.bj. It is run by APIEx, the national agency for investment and export promotion. One online file covers the trade register, the tax number and social security registration.
This guide sums up the official fees, documents and steps, checked on monentreprise.bj on 20 October 2026.
Which legal form should you choose?
The platform offers two main families:
- an individual business (établissement individuel): one person, no bylaws, unlimited liability;
- a company (SARL, SUARL, SAS, SA and others): liability limited to contributions, with bylaws.
Foreign companies can also open a branch (succursale) or a representation office.
Official registration fees in Benin
| Legal form | Official fee | Bylaws (statuts) |
|---|---|---|
| Individual business | 10,000 FCFA | None |
| SARL / SUARL | 22,000 FCFA | Private deed or notarised |
| SAS, SA | 37,000 FCFA | Notarised |
| SNC, SCS | 37,000 FCFA | Private deed or notarised |
| SCI, SCP | 37,000 FCFA | Notarised |
| GIE | 37,000 FCFA | Notarised, mandatory |
| Branch or representation office | 22,000 or 37,000 FCFA | Notarised |
These are the platform fees only. Notary fees for notarised bylaws come on top. You can pay by MTN MoMo, Moov Flooz, Celtiis Cash or Visa/Mastercard.
The platform does not state a minimum share capital on the pages we read. Ask APIEx or a notary before drafting your bylaws.
Documents you need
For an individual business, the platform lists five documents:
- a biometric ID card or personal identification certificate (Beninese nationals), or a valid passport (foreigners);
- a criminal record extract less than three months old, or a sworn statement;
- a recent colour ID photo on a white background;
- for foreigners: a consular card, residence permit, e-visa or resident card.
For companies, the platform has separate document lists by legal form. Check them on the required-documents page before you start. Files must be PDF, JPG or PNG, up to 5 MB each.
Step by step on monentreprise.bj
- Check that your business name, registered address and activity are available. The platform has a tool for each.
- Choose your legal form and fill in the online form.
- Upload your documents and, for a company, your bylaws.
- Pay the fee online.
- Wait for processing: the platform announces 3 business hours for every form.
- Download your certificates the same day. They are secured with a QR code.
You are then registered with the trade register (RCCM), the tax administration (IFU tax number), social security (CNSS) and the labour administration.
Tips for foreign investors and the diaspora
- Residence status: as a foreigner, you need a valid stay document, such as an e-visa or a residence permit. See our Benin e-visa guide.
- Bylaws: an SARL can use a private deed, but a notary is required for an SAS or SA.
- After registration: plan your accounting, tax returns and payroll from day one. Penalties for late filings add up quickly.
- Local support: BOSAKA OFFICE helps with registration, bookkeeping and tax returns, in French and English.
APIEx contact: contact@apiex.bj, +229 01 52 83 66 66, Boulevard Saint-Michel, Cotonou. Open Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5:30 pm.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to register a company in Benin?
The official fee is 22,000 FCFA for an SARL or SUARL and 37,000 FCFA for an SAS or SA. Notary fees are extra when notarised bylaws are required.
How long does company registration take in Benin?
Monentreprise.bj announces 3 business hours of processing, with certificates available the same day for a complete file.
Can a foreigner register a business in Benin?
Yes. Foreigners provide a valid passport and a stay document, such as an e-visa, a consular card or a residence permit.
Sources: monentreprise.bj, costs and timelines, consulted 20 October 2026 ; monentreprise.bj, required documents ; monentreprise.bj, creation guide
BOSAKA OFFICE can help with company registration, accounting, tax and administrative paperwork in Benin. Call or WhatsApp: +229 01 41 74 52 64 (French and English) · Gbègnigan, Abomey-Calavi.
