Sole Proprietorship Registration
Register as an entrepreneur individuel — the simplest way to start trading legally in Cameroon.
Sole Proprietorship Registration in Cameroon
Who It's For
Ideal for freelancers, consultants, traders, artisans, small service providers and micro-entrepreneurs who want a low-cost, fast and lightweight legal status without the complexity of a company. Common profiles include IT consultants, retail shop owners, restaurant operators, taxi and ride-hailing drivers, hairdressers, market traders, photographers and event planners.
Advantages and Limits
Advantages: very low set-up cost, lightweight accounting (simplified régime du réel or impôt libératoire for very small businesses), no minimum capital, and direct ownership of profits. Limits: the entrepreneur is personally liable for business debts on their entire personal estate (no liability shield), credibility may be lower than a SARL when bidding for tenders, and growth options are limited. We help you assess when to migrate from sole proprietorship to a SARL.
What's Included in Our Service
Individual RCCM registration, NIU tax number issuance, business licence (Patente) request at the municipality, CNPS affiliation if you plan to hire, opening of a professional bank account, set-up of accounting tools (e-invoicing, bookkeeping templates), and a 30-minute compliance briefing on your monthly and annual obligations.
Tax Regimes for Sole Traders
Three tax regimes apply based on annual turnover: • Impôt Libératoire — for activities under XAF 10 million in revenue, a flat annual lump-sum tax. • Régime Simplifié — between XAF 10 million and XAF 50 million, monthly precompte and simplified bookkeeping. • Régime du Réel — above XAF 50 million, full IRPP at progressive rates, VAT registration and full SYSCOHADA accounting. We advise on the optimal regime and migration timing.
Why Wainfen Holdings
Wainfen Holdings has been operating in Cameroon since 2010 and has supported hundreds of local and international clients. Our bilingual (English/French) team understands both the OHADA legal framework and the practical realities of doing business across Douala, Yaoundé, Kribi, Limbe and Bafoussam. We commit to fixed fees, transparent timelines, and a single dedicated account manager who keeps you informed at every step. Whatever the service, our promise is the same: no surprises, no hidden costs, and full local execution so you can focus on your business.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a minimum capital for a sole proprietorship in Cameroon?
No. A sole proprietorship (entrepreneur individuel) requires no minimum capital, which makes it the lowest-cost way to start trading legally.
Am I personally liable for business debts?
Yes. A sole proprietor is personally liable for business debts on their entire personal estate. If you need a liability shield, a SARL is usually the better structure.
Which tax regime applies?
It depends on annual turnover: impôt libératoire under XAF 10 million, régime simplifié between XAF 10 and 50 million, and régime du réel above XAF 50 million.
What is included in your registration service?
RCCM registration, NIU tax number, business licence (patente), CNPS affiliation if you plan to hire, a professional bank account, accounting set-up and a 30-minute compliance briefing.
Get started: Sole Proprietorship Registration
Tell us about your project in a few lines. A bilingual advisor will reply with a fixed quote and a clear timeline, usually within one business day.
Request a quote by email