Start a business in Ghana

Choose your business structure. In Ghana, the most common options are a Sole Proprietorship (simplest), a Partnership, or a Private Limited Company (Ltd). For a fundable tech startup, register as an Ltd.

Search for and reserve your company name through the Registrar General's Department (RGD) at rgd.gov.gh. Ghana's RGD portal allows name reservations online.

Register your company through the Ghana Business Registration System (GBRS) at ghbrs.com or in person at any Registrar General's Department office. You will need: passports/IDs for all directors, a registered Ghanaian office address, and your Memorandum and Articles of Association.

Obtain your Tax Identification Number (TIN) from the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) at gra.gov.gh. This is required for all business transactions, bank account opening, and tax compliance.

Register for VAT with GRA if your turnover exceeds GHS 200,000 per year or if you are a tech startup working with larger businesses that require VAT invoices.

Open a business bank account. You will need your Certificate of Incorporation, Tax Identification Number, company resolution, and IDs for all signatories.

Set up online payment collection using Flutterwave or Startbutton. Both support Ghana Cedis, mobile money (MTN MoMo, Vodafone Cash, AirtelTigo Money), and card payments.

Set up your foundational legal documents — co-founder agreement, IP assignment, and contractor agreements. Have them reviewed by a Ghanaian lawyer.