About the Online Registration Portal
The Companies and Deeds Registry of Zimbabwe operates an online platform that allows individuals and businesses to conduct company registration services electronically. The portal is accessible at companies.gov.zw and provides a convenient alternative to visiting the Registry’s offices in Harare.
The online system was introduced as part of Zimbabwe’s e-Government initiative to improve the ease of doing business and reduce processing times. It enables users to submit applications, pay fees, and track progress from anywhere with an internet connection.
What You Can Do Online
| Service | Available Online? | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Company Name Search (CR21) | Yes | Fees apply |
| Pvt Ltd Company Registration | Yes | Fees apply |
| PBC Registration | Yes | Fees apply |
| PLC Registration | Yes | Fees apply |
| Foreign Company Registration | Partial (some documents must be physical) | Fees apply |
| Annual Returns Filing | Yes | Varies |
| CR14 (Director Changes) | Yes | Fees apply |
| CR6 (Address Changes) | Yes | Fees apply |
| Company Search / Status Check | Yes | Fees apply |
| Certificate Download | Yes (after approval) | Included |
Step-by-Step: Using the Online Portal
Step 1: Create an Account
Visit companies.gov.zw and click “Register” to create a user account. You will need:
- A valid email address
- National ID number or passport number
- Mobile phone number (for OTP verification)
After entering your details, you will receive a verification email. Click the link to activate your account.
Step 2: Log In and Select a Service
Log in with your credentials and select the service you need from the dashboard. Common options include:
- Name Search — to check and reserve a company name
- New Company Registration — to register a Pvt Ltd, PBC, or PLC
- File Returns — to submit annual returns
- Company Search — to check the status of an existing company
Step 3: Complete the Online Forms
Fill in the required information for your chosen service. For a new company registration, you will need to provide:
- Company name (as approved in the name search)
- Company type (Pvt Ltd, PBC, PLC)
- Director and secretary details (equivalent to CR14)
- Registered office address (equivalent to CR6)
- Share capital details
Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents
Upload scanned copies of the required documents in PDF format:
- Memorandum of Association (signed)
- Articles of Association (signed)
- National ID copies of all directors and secretary
- Proof of registered office address
Step 5: Pay the Government Fee
The portal accepts the following payment methods:
- EcoCash — pay directly from your mobile money wallet
- Bank Transfer — use the provided reference number
- Visa / Mastercard — debit or credit card payment
You will receive a digital receipt upon successful payment.
Step 6: Track Your Application
After submission, you can track the status of your application on the dashboard. Common statuses include:
- Submitted — your application has been received
- Under Review — a registrar is examining your documents
- Query — additional information or corrections needed
- Approved — your registration is complete
Step 7: Download Your Certificate
Once approved, your Certificate of Incorporation will be available for download as a PDF from the portal. You can also collect a physical copy from the Registry.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
- Account verification email not received: Check your spam/junk folder. If not found, try registering with a different email address.
- Payment not reflecting: Allow 24 hours for bank transfers to clear. For EcoCash, ensure you have sufficient balance and try again.
- Document upload failing: Ensure files are in PDF format and under 5MB each. Compress large files before uploading.
- Application stuck in “Under Review”: Processing times vary. If it has been more than 14 working days, contact the Registry directly.
Benefits of Online Registration
- Convenience: Submit applications 24/7 from anywhere with internet access
- No queues: Avoid waiting at the Registry office
- Digital records: All submissions and receipts stored in your account
- Tracking: Real-time status updates on your application
- Ideal for diaspora: Register from abroad without visiting Zimbabwe
Prefer Professional Help?
We handle the entire online registration process on your behalf — no portal access needed.
Start Registration WhatsApp UsFrequently Asked Questions
Can I register a company online in Zimbabwe?
Yes. The Companies and Deeds Registry operates an online portal at companies.gov.zw where you can conduct name searches, submit registration documents, pay fees, and track your application status.
What can I do on the Zimbabwe companies online portal?
How do I pay for company registration online?
The online portal accepts payment via EcoCash, bank transfer, and Visa/Mastercard. Fees are the same as in-person registration. You receive a digital receipt upon successful payment.
Is online registration faster than in-person?
Online submissions are processed in the same queue as physical submissions. However, online registration eliminates travel time to the registry office and allows you to submit documents outside business hours.