The Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) started the new year by issuing notices and guides. In this article, we explain the issues regarding the disparities in registration dates, look into the robust security measures for directors’ amendments, and introduce an easy-to-follow guide for making these changes.

1. Disparity between registration number and incorporation dates: Notice 1 of 2024

For companies that applied for registration late last year, the registration number will be for 2023, and the official incorporation date (or registration date) will be 2024. This is because the CIPC's system automatically assigns registration dates when they receive the application, but the incorporation date is when your company is officially registered. Read Notice 1 of CIPC here.

2. Feedback on the multi-factor authentication for the director amendments system

In a media statement issued on 8 January 2024, CIPC emphasised that the identity verification and multifactor authentication for director amendments introduced on 4 December 2023 were rigorously tested, and the system has successfully processed over 8000 applications since its implementation. The new process is aimed to enhance security and prevent unauthorised changes. This measure aligns with their role as a regulator and registrar of companies to prevent corruption and corporate crime. CIPC advises customers to update their contact information for a smooth and secure process. Read the media statement here.

3. How to file director amendment applications

The detailed step-by-step guides on the enhanced director amendments process are provided on the CIPC website under the heading 'Companies and Close Corporations' and Notice 2 here.

The below information seeks to assist our customers with some of the questions that have been received from our Call Centre.

1. How do I change the Identification on my Customer Profile from a Passport to an ID?

• Log a ticket on https://enquiries.cipc.co.za and select the Department – Login Challenges.

• Write a message that includes your customer code, passport number, and ID number. Attach a certified Copy of the ID.

• Our back office will update your information.

2. How do I update a Director Address of a South African that is domiciled overseas as I’m required to select a South African Province on the Director Address.

• Capture the overseas address and select any of the South African Provinces and Finalise the application.

• Log a ticket on https://enquiries.cipc.co.za and select Department – Companies and CCs, Category – Company Amendments, Subcategory – Director Amendments EService (CoR39)

• Write a message which includes the Enterprise Number, the Director ID, and the Province/State.

• Our back office will update your information.

3. I get an error of the ID Issue Date when appointing a Director.

• Do not type the date. Use the Calendar control to select the date. The appointment will be saved if the date matches the Home Affairs records.

4. Do I need to add the + sign on an international cellphone number?

• No, do not add the + sign on an international cellphone number.

• Example for Zimbabwe (Country Code +263). The number when in Zimbabwe is 0770000000. Capture as 263770000000

4. Unauthorised use of CIPC name, abbreviation and logo

CIPC clients are reminded once again that the use of the words COMPANIES AND INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY COMMISSION, as well as the abbreviation CIPC and the logo of CIPC, is strictly prohibited. This includes using these in e-mail addresses on any website, documentation, marketing, or other materials. Anyone using these should delete or change them immediately to avoid legal proceedings.

Read more on this in CIPC Notice 3 of 2024 here.

Keep visiting our CIBA blogs and Accounting Weekly websites for more interesting updates and news.

In conclusion, this article serves as your compass in navigating the nuanced terrain of company registrations, director amendments, and safeguarding against unauthorised practices. CIPC's commitment to transparency and security echoes through these notices, and we encourage you to explore the provided links for a deeper understanding of these crucial updates. Stay informed, stay secure, and thrive in the ever-evolving realm of corporate governance.