CIPC vs BizPortal: What's the Difference?
If you're trying to register a company or file compliance documents in South Africa, you've probably seen both "CIPC" and "BizPortal." Here's how they relate and which one to use.
Is CIPC the same as BizPortal?
No — but they are closely related. CIPC is the government agency (Companies and Intellectual Property Commission). BizPortal is the online platformthat CIPC built to let you interact with them digitally.
Think of CIPC as the DMV and BizPortal as their online booking and payment system. You still deal with CIPC, but BizPortal is the modern front door.
What is the old CIPC e-services system?
Before BizPortal, CIPC had an older e-services website. It was slower, less user-friendly, and required more manual steps. CIPC has been migrating services to BizPortal, and most new company registrations and transactions should now go through BizPortal.
What can you do on BizPortal?
- Register a new local or foreign company
- Reserve a company name
- File annual returns
- Apply for name changes and amendments
- Search for existing companies
- Request certificates and certified extracts
- Track application status in real time
What still requires the old CIPC system?
Some specialized filings and legacy transactions may still reference the older CIPC e-services, but for 95% of users — especially new registrations — BizPortal is the correct destination.
Do you need a BizPortal account?
Yes. You need a free BizPortal account to register a company or transact with CIPC online. You'll use your ID number and a verified email address to sign up. Once registered, you can transact for yourself or on behalf of companies you are authorized to represent.
Is BizPortal safe?
Yes — BizPortal is an official South African government platform. It uses standard encryption and verification processes. Always ensure you're on the official domain: bizportal.gov.za.
CIPC BizPortal login tips
- Use your South African ID number as the username
- Keep your email verified — CIPC sends OTPs and confirmations there
- Enable two-factor authentication if available
- Don't share your login credentials with anyone
Registered on BizPortal? Stay compliant with COYSEC
BizPortal gets you registered. COYSEC keeps you compliant. Automatic statutory registers, annual return tracking, and director change management — all aligned with CIPC requirements.