The Requirements to Start a Non Profit Organization in South Africa

How do NGO owners make money?

NGOs can accept donations from private individuals, for-profit companies, charitable foundations, and governments, whether local, state, federal, or even foreign. As nonprofit entities, they also can charge membership dues and sell goods and services.

How long does it take to register an NGO in South Africa?

In South Africa, it  could  take approximately two months to process the entire registration. Once your application has been received, the department will send you an acknowledgement letter. A registration certificate will be issued if your application meets the requirements of the Nonprofit Organizations Act, 1997.

Does an NPO Make Profit in South Africa?

The primary objective of an NPO is to benefit the public, not to actually make a profit. With the online NPO registration, things have become easier and quicker. Before securing your NPO registration certificate, you need to know the various steps involved for you to do it right. You can only get the certificate after adhering to all laid down protocols and attaching the relevant support documents. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to register.

What are the Requirements I need to Register an NGO in South Africa?

For your organization to be considered a legal entity, you have to register it the right way and at the right place. To start with, get the NPO registration form available at the website or from a provincial social development office. The certificate is crucial as it proves that you operate the organization legally.

Have the NPO registration form filled and attach the relevant documents. Submit the same at the nearest provincial social development office. Below are some of the documents to attach:

•  Certificate of incorporation and articles of association
•  Deeds of trust and letter of authorization from the courts
• Constitution- you can ask around and get a sample of such constitutions and amend yours accordingly.
• After that, you can choose whether to register online or post your application form and two copies of your NPO founding documents. These include the deed of trust and memorandum and articles of association.
•  If you opt to post the application, address it to

NPO Directorate, Department of Social Development, Private Bag X901, Pretoria, 0001 Or hand-deliver them to:

NPO Directorate, HSRC Building, 134 Pretorius Street, Pretoria, 0002 Or visit the dsd.gov.za NPO registration for any inquiries.