How To Start A Business in Guinea

Step-by-Step Guide to Starting a Business in Guinea

1. Reserve and Register a Business Name

Apply for a name reservation and business registration at the Agence de Promotion des Investissements Privés (APIP Guinea).

• Fee: Approximately GNF 300,000 to GNF 600,000 (varies by entity type)
• Duration: 2–5 working days

2. Obtain Tax Identification Number (NIF)

Register with the tax authorities to obtain a Tax Identification Number (Numéro d’Identification Fiscale - NIF).

• Fee: Free
• Duration: 1–2 working days

3. Register with the Commercial Court

File the company’s articles of incorporation and related documents with the Commercial Court (Tribunal de Commerce).

• Fee: Included in APIP registration package
• Duration: Typically 2–3 working days

4. Open a Company Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account in Guinea using the registration documents and NIF.

• Minimum Capital: As required by the business type (e.g., GNF 1,000,000+ for LLCs)

5. Register for Social Security

Enroll employees and the business with the Caisse Nationale de Sécurité Sociale (CNSS).

• Employer Contribution: 18% of gross salary
• Employee Contribution: 5% of gross salary

6. Obtain Sector-Specific Licenses (if required)

Businesses in regulated sectors (e.g., mining, health, finance) must obtain licenses or authorization from the relevant ministries or authorities.

• Fee: Varies by sector
• Duration: Varies by authority

7. Register with the Investment Promotion Agency (For Foreign Investors)

Foreign businesses are encouraged to register with APIP Guinea for access to incentives, streamlined services, and investment protection agreements.

• Minimum Capital: May apply for wholly foreign-owned businesses (e.g., USD 50,000+)

Useful Resources

• APIP Guinea (Investment Promotion Agency)
• Caisse Nationale de Sécurité Sociale (CNSS)
• Ministry of Economy and Finance