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Director Changes at CIPC: Complete Guide

How to add, remove, or update director information at CIPC. Step-by-step process for CoR39 filings and compliance requirements.

9 min readUpdated 29 November 2025
Applies to:Registered companies • Company directors

Director changes must be filed with CIPC within 10 business days of the change. This includes adding new directors, removing directors, or updating personal information like addresses or ID numbers. Failure to file can result in penalties and compliance issues.

When to File Director Changes

10 Business Day Deadline: The Companies Act requires you to file director changes within 10 business days. Late filing may result in penalties.

You must file when:

  • A new director is appointed
  • A director resigns or is removed
  • A director's personal details change (address, name, ID)
  • A director becomes disqualified

Types of Director Changes

Adding a Director

To add a new director, you need:

  • Board resolution approving the appointment
  • New director's written consent (Form CoR39)
  • Certified copy of director's ID
  • Proof of residential address
Director Requirements: Directors must be at least 18 years old, of sound mind, and not disqualified under the Companies Act.

Removing a Director

Directors can be removed by:

  • Resignation: Written notice from the director
  • Shareholder Resolution: Ordinary resolution by shareholders
  • Board Resolution: If MOI permits
  • Death: Death certificate required
  • Disqualification: Court order or statutory disqualification

Updating Director Details

File changes when a director:

  • Changes residential address
  • Changes name (marriage, divorce)
  • Corrects ID number errors
  • Changes nationality/citizenship

Filing Process

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Log into CIPC eServices

    Access eservices.cipc.co.za with your customer code.

  2. Select "Director Changes"

    Navigate to Company Maintenance → Director Changes.

  3. Enter Company Registration Number

    Search for your company using the registration number.

  4. Select Change Type

    Choose: Add Director, Remove Director, or Update Details.

  5. Complete CoR39 Form

    Fill in all required director information.

  6. Upload Supporting Documents

    Attach certified ID copies, consent forms, and resolutions.

  7. Pay Filing Fee

    Complete payment via credit card or EFT.

  8. Receive Confirmation

    Download updated company details once processed.

Documents Required

Change TypeDocuments Needed
Adding Director
  • CoR39 form
  • Certified ID copy
  • Written consent
  • Board resolution
Removing Director
  • CoR39 form
  • Resignation letter OR
  • Shareholder resolution
Updating Details
  • CoR39 form
  • Proof of change (utility bill, marriage certificate)

Filing Fees (2025)

  • Online Filing: R150 per change
  • Manual Filing: R250 per change
  • Late Filing Penalty: Additional R100-R500

Common Mistakes

  • Filing after the 10-day deadline (attracts penalties)
  • Using uncertified ID copies
  • Not getting written consent before adding a director
  • Forgetting to update Beneficial Ownership after director changes
  • Not checking if new director is disqualified

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a company have just one director?

Yes. A private company (Pty) Ltd can operate with a single director. Non-Profit Companies (NPC) require a minimum of 3 directors.

How long does CIPC take to process director changes?

Online submissions are typically processed within 3-5 business days. Manual submissions can take 10-21 business days.

Can a director resign effective immediately?

Yes, unless the MOI specifies a notice period. However, if resignation leaves the company without directors, the remaining director(s) must appoint replacements.

Do I need to update the bank after director changes?

Yes. Banks require notification of director changes. You'll need to provide the updated CIPC documents and complete the bank's change forms.

Next Steps

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