1. Compliance Crackdown Intensifies

Following South Africa’s removal from the FATF greylist in October 2025, CIPC has doubled down on beneficial ownership (BO) compliance. Companies that fail to update BO details cannot file annual returns, leading to blocked filings and eventual deregistration. Over 500,000 companies have already been flagged, and directors face personal liability, fines up to R1 million, and reputational risks if they ignore these obligations.

2. Mass Deregistration Drive

CIPC is continuing its large-scale deregistration campaign, targeting dormant and non-compliant entities. Approximately 800,000 companies are expected to be removed from the register for failing to submit annual returns and BO declarations. Deregistration can freeze bank accounts and disrupt business operations, so companies must act promptly.

3. Compliance Checklist Under Scrutiny

On 5 December 2025, CIPC issued Customer Notice 53, emphasizing accurate completion of the Compliance Checklist. Misleading or incorrect responses can trigger remedial action. This checklist accompanies annual return submissions and covers 24 nuanced questions tied to the Companies Act.

4. System Maintenance & Service Updates

CIPC systems were offline from 5–8 December 2025 for scheduled maintenance. Businesses should plan around these downtimes to avoid delays in filings.

5. POPIA & PAIA Compliance Visibility

CIPC now publicly flags companies that fail to register an Information Officer or submit their PAIA Annual Report. This compliance status is visible on BizPortal, impacting credibility with banks and investors.

Key Deadlines to Remember

Beneficial Ownership Filing: Must be submitted with your next annual return or within 10 days of any ownership change.

Annual Returns: Missing two consecutive cycles triggers deregistration.

Compliance Checklist: Complete accurately alongside annual returns