Documents Issued After CAC Registration and How to Get Them Remotely

Introduction

When registering a business, company, or nonprofit in Nigeria, understanding the documents issued after CAC registration is crucial. These documents are more than just proof of compliance—they serve as legal foundations for your entity, help with bank account opening, regulatory approvals, and more.

This article explains all the documents you’ll receive based on your registration type—Business Name, Limited Liability Company, or Incorporated Trustee—and outlines how CAC now allows remote registration without the need for physical presence. See the differences between Business name and Limited company

 

What Are the Documents Issued After CAC Registration?

The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) in Nigeria issues distinct documents depending on the type of entity being registered. These documents vary in number, content, and legal function but are all essential for compliance and operations.

 

1. Business Name Registration: Two Essential Documents

Registering as a sole proprietor or a partnership falls under a Business Name. After completing registration, you’ll receive:

• Certificate of Registration

This is the official document that confirms your business is legally recognized in Nigeria. It contains your business name, registration number, and date of registration.

• Status Report

This document includes detailed information about the proprietor, nature of the business, and contact information. It serves as a companion document to the certificate.

Both documents are mandatory when opening a corporate account or dealing with formal institutions. One without the other is usually insufficient.

 

2. Limited Liability Company: Three Key Documents

Registering a Limited Liability Company (Ltd) gives your business a separate legal identity. After a successful registration, CAC provides:

• Certificate of Incorporation

This proves your company is officially recognized. It displays the company name, RC number, and incorporation date.

• Status Report

This document outlines details of the company’s directors and shareholders, including share allocation.

• Memorandum and Articles of Association (MEMART)

MEMART defines the objectives, powers, and governance structure of your company. It’s usually between 15 to 27 pages long and is vital for contracts, legal transactions, and compliance with regulators.

These three documents are inseparable for most corporate processes, especially legal dealings, tender applications, and tax registrations.

 

3. Incorporated Trustee (NGOs, Churches, Associations): Three Specific Documents

If you’re registering a non-governmental organization, religious body, or association, you are forming an Incorporated Trustee. After the long CAC approval duration for incoporated trustees, you will receive:

• Certificate of Incorporation

This certificate will include the official name of the NGO or association and will also list the names of all appointed trustees.

• Constitution

The organization’s constitution outlines its purpose, structure, governing rules, and operational guidelines.

• Application Report

This detailed report includes trustee information and reflects the organization’s objectives and operational approach.

These documents are foundational for opening NGO bank accounts, applying for grants, and engaging with government agencies.

 

Can You Complete CAC Registration Without Physical Presence?

Yes. Since 2020, CAC no longer requires your physical presence for registration. This development aligns with Nigeria’s broader push toward digital governance and has made registration much more accessible and efficient.

How It Works

• No Office Visit Needed:

  No biometric capture, no physical submission.

• Digital Document Delivery:

  CAC sends all certificates and accompanying documents to your email.

• Online Application Process:

  Accredited agents or individuals complete and submit everything via the CAC portal.

This change means anyone—whether within or outside Nigeria—can register their business by simply providing accurate information and identification electronically.

 

How Long Does It Take to Receive CAC Registration Documents?

• Business Name:

  Typically 3–5 working days.

• Limited Company:

  5–7 working days.

• Incorporated Trustee:

  5–6 weeks (due to mandatory newspaper publication period).

Timelines depend on document readiness and submission accuracy. Errors or missing files will cause delays.

 

Where Are CAC Documents Sent?

Once registration is approved:

• All documents are sent to the email address provided during application.
• Documents arrive in PDF format, ready to be printed or submitted digitally.
• They are fully verifiable through the CAC portal or barcode on the certificate.

 

Are These Documents Legally Valid?

Absolutely. Digital CAC documents carry the same legal weight as printed copies. Banks, tax offices, and government agencies recognize and accept these electronic formats.

 

Important Tips for Managing CAC Registration Documents

• Always save backups of all documents on secure storage.
• Print clear copies when presenting to institutions that require physical documentation.
• Use consistent business information across all platforms and documents to avoid discrepancies.
• Verify authenticity using CAC’s online verification tools if in doubt.

Conclusion

Knowing the documents issued after CAC registration is fundamental for operating your business or organization legally in Nigeria. Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur, a limited company founder, or an NGO trustee, these documents define your legal identity and unlock essential services like banking, taxation, and formal contracting.

Moreover, with CAC’s digital transformation, you can now complete your registration and receive all required documents remotely—saving time and effort while maintaining full legal compliance, which also ensures you get more trusted customers.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

1. What are the documents issued after CAC registration for a business name?

You receive a Certificate of Registration and a Status Report. Both are required for most formal business interactions.

2. Can I complete CAC registration from abroad?

Yes. You do not need to be physically present in Nigeria to complete your CAC registration.

3. Is the MEMART mandatory for all companies?

Yes. For Limited Liability Companies, the Memorandum and Articles of Association are essential legal documents.

4. Can I use my digital CAC certificate to open a bank account?

Yes. Banks in Nigeria accept digital CAC certificates along with accompanying documents like the Status Report and MEMART.

5. Are there penalties for not having CAC registration documents?

Operating without proper CAC documentation can lead to business shutdown, fines, or ineligibility for certain licenses and funding.

6. What if I lose access to my registered email address?

You may face difficulties retrieving your documents. It’s advisable to update your email with CAC through a formal application if your email changes.

7. Can I change my business name or company structure later?

Yes, but this involves a formal process with the CAC including filings and payments. Always register under the right category initially to avoid complications.