CIPC Corporate Document Service
CIPC Corporate Document Service
South African companies expanding into the UAE or entering into commercial relationships with Emirati entities need their corporate documents authenticated. The Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) issues the core documents, which must then pass through DIRCO and the UAE Embassy before MOFA attestation in the UAE.
Green Apple Attest handles authentication of CIPC company registration certificates, certificates of good standing, director and member records, memoranda of incorporation, share certificates, and other corporate filings. We understand the specific formatting and certification requirements that DIRCO applies to commercial documents.
Our service is used by South African businesses setting up UAE branches, companies appointing UAE-based distributors, and firms responding to government or corporate tenders in the Emirates. We ensure every document meets the exact specifications required by UAE free zone authorities, the Department of Economic Development, and other regulatory bodies.
Documents Required
- Original CIPC company registration certificate (CM1 or CoR14.1)
- Certificate of good standing from CIPC (if required)
- Memorandum of Incorporation (MOI)
- Director or member register extract
- Board resolution authorising the attestation (on company letterhead)
- Clear colour copy of director or authorised signatory passport
- Power of Attorney from the company to Green Apple Attest
Special Requirements
- • A board resolution on company letterhead authorising the attestation is required for all corporate documents.
- • Certificate of good standing must be dated within three months of submission.
How It Works
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1Submit your corporate documents and authorisation for review.
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2We verify document formatting and obtain any missing CIPC certifications.
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3Documents are notarised and submitted to DIRCO for authentication.
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4UAE Embassy in Pretoria completes consular legalisation.
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5MOFA attestation is finalised in the UAE and documents are delivered to your office.
Insider Tips
Insider Tips
- Ensure your CIPC annual return is up to date before requesting a certificate of good standing. CIPC will not issue the certificate if returns are outstanding.
- If your MOI has been amended, submit the latest consolidated version. Outdated versions can cause rejection at the UAE Embassy stage.
- Submit all corporate documents together in a single batch to streamline the process and reduce overall turnaround time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most UAE free zones and the Department of Economic Development require a CIPC company registration certificate, certificate of good standing, memorandum of incorporation, and a board resolution authorising the branch. Exact requirements vary by jurisdiction. We can advise based on your target free zone or mainland authority.
Yes. There is no minimum company age requirement for authentication. However, the certificate of good standing must reflect the current status of the company and is typically valid for three months from the date of issue.
DIRCO requires either the original certificate or a copy certified by CIPC or a South African notary public. Plain photocopies or self-certified copies will be rejected. We recommend sending the original where possible to avoid delays.
The full chain from notarisation through MOFA attestation takes approximately 15 to 20 working days. If additional CIPC certifications need to be obtained first, add 5 to 10 working days. We recommend starting the process at least one month before your UAE business deadline.
Quick Facts
- Processing Time
- 14-20 business days
- Pricing From
- AED 500
- Country
- South Africa
- Delivery
- Free across the UAE
Questions About This Service?
Our specialists know South Africa requirements inside out — call or message for free guidance.
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Not Sure What Your Documents Need? We Are.
Tell us what you are trying to accomplish — visa, job, university, business setup — and we will map out every step. No obligations.