How to Register a Limited Liability Company (LLC) on CAC for Less Than ₦15,000 in Nigeria (2026 Guide)
In Nigeria’s new tax era, running an unregistered business is no longer a small risk — it’s a costly mistake.
With recent tax law reforms, the government is paying more attention to formal businesses, and unregistered ventures may face higher taxes, penalties, or difficulty accessing loans and grants.
The good news?
You can now register your Limited Liability Company (LLC) on the CAC website yourself for less than ₦15,000 — legally, easily, and without paying agents outrageous fees.
This guide shows you exactly how.
Why Registering an LLC Is Important Now Under Nigeria’s New Tax System
The new tax framework in Nigeria is designed to reward formal, registered businesses and tighten compliance for informal ones.
By registering your LLC, you immediately:
- Gain legal recognition and limited liability protection
- Separate your personal assets from business risks
- Become eligible to open a corporate bank account
- Qualify for government grants, contracts, and incentives
- Access loans, fintech credit, and structured financing
- Build trust with customers, partners, and investors
Registering early gives you a soft landing into the new tax system — you start on the right side of the law and avoid unnecessary fines later.
How Much Does It Cost to Register an LLC on CAC in Nigeria?
If you register by yourself on the CAC portal:
- Name reservation: ₦500 – ₦1,000
- Company registration: ₦10,000 – ₦15,000 (based on share capital)
Total cost: Less than ₦15,000
Many consultants charge ₦50,000–₦100,000 for the same process, even though CAC now allows self-service online registration.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Register Your LLC on CAC for Less Than ₦15,000
Step 1: Prepare Your Business Information
Before visiting the CAC portal, get the following ready:
- Three (3) preferred business names
- Proposed business activity
- Full details of directors and shareholders
- Valid identification (National ID, Driver’s License, or International Passport)
- Registered office address
Proper preparation helps you avoid delays and mistakes.
Step 2: Check and Reserve Your Business Name
- Visit the CAC Name Search Portal
- Enter your proposed names to check availability
- Reserve your approved business name
Cost: ₦500 – ₦1,000
Once approved, the name is secured for your use.
Step 3: Register Your Limited Liability Company
- Go to the CAC registration portal
- Select “Register a Company”
- Choose Limited Liability Company (LTD)
- Fill in all required details carefully
Accuracy is very important — errors can delay approval.
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
You’ll be required to upload:
- IDs of directors and shareholders
- Passport photographs (if requested)
- Memorandum and Articles of Association
CAC now provides standard online templates, so you don’t need a lawyer for basic registration.
Step 5: Pay CAC Registration Fees Online
- Registration fees range from ₦10,000 to ₦15,000
- Payment is done online via:
- Debit card
- CAC-approved online payment channels
No physical visits required.
Step 6: Receive Your Certificate of Incorporation
Once approved:
- Your Certificate of Incorporation is issued online
- You can download it directly from the portal
- Your business is now legally registered in Nigeria
You can now operate formally and comply with the new tax system.
How to Save Even More Money When Registering on CAC
To keep your cost as low as possible:
- Use the CAC self-service portal, not agents
- Stick to the minimum share capital requirement
- Use a simple, verifiable office address
- Avoid unnecessary add-ons during registration
Doing it yourself is the cheapest and smartest option.
Registering Your Business Is Not Just Compliance — It’s Strategy
Registering your LLC today is about future-proofing your business.
With less than ₦15,000, you:
- Protect your personal assets
- Prepare for Nigeria’s evolving tax environment
- Position your business for growth, funding, and credibility
In this new system, formal businesses will always have the advantage.
Final Thoughts
If you’re serious about building a sustainable business in Nigeria, registering your Limited Liability Company is no longer optional — it’s essential.
The CAC portal has made it easy.
The cost is low.
The benefits are long-term.
Register now, stay compliant, and grow with confidence.
