Setting up a subsidiary in Equatorial Guinea isn’t just about ticking off legal boxes—it’s about laying down real roots in a place that’s steadily climbing the ladder of African economic promise. This guide walks you through the process in the most human, clear-eyed, no-nonsense way possible. No fluff, no robotic lingo—just the real deal.
Understanding what you’re building
A subsidiary isn’t a branch. It’s its legal person. It can stand on its own, make its own decisions, and sign its deals—even if the parent company calls the bigger shots. In Equatorial Guinea, this setup gives foreign companies a solid way to operate locally with a strong sense of control, flexibility, and legal protection. It’s the kind of structure that says, “We’re serious about being here.”
Getting to know the lay of the land
Equatorial Guinea has its rhythm, and before you step in, you’ve got to tune into it. The country follows OHADA (Organization for the Harmonization of Business Law in Africa) regulations. That means you’re not just dealing with local rules—you’re working within a shared legal system used by 17 countries in West and Central Africa. It’s French-influenced, structured, and surprisingly consistent.
Choose the right company structure
For subsidiaries, the go-to structure is usually a Société à Responsabilité Limitée (SARL), which is the OHADA equivalent of a limited liability company. It’s clean, flexible, and manageable for most foreign investors. It can also be 100% foreign-owned, which is a major green light for businesses looking to establish a strong footprint.
Start with the name
Pick a company name that’s not taken and not too close to something already on file. You’ll need to get that name reserved officially at the Commercial Registry. It’s a straightforward step but don’t skip it. Getting this wrong causes annoying delays. This is your business’s identity in Equatorial Guinea—make it count.
Prepare and legalise the documents
Here’s where things get real. You’ll need:
- The articles of association for your subsidiary.
- A notarized decision from your parent company to set up the subsidiary.
- Proof of the appointed directors’ identities and addresses.
- A lease agreement or proof of address for your registered office in Equatorial Guinea.
- Bank certificate showing the paid-up share capital (if required).
All foreign documents need to be legalized—either through an apostille or consular authentication, depending on your country of origin. Make sure translations are top-notch and professionally certified. This part isn’t glamorous, but it’s mission-critical.
Deposit the share of capital
Though the required share capital isn’t astronomical (a few million CFA francs for a SARL), it still needs to be deposited in a local bank. This step proves you’re not just a paper company—you’re coming in with real financial backing. The bank will give you a certificate, which you’ll include in your registration file.
Get registered with the authorities
This step brings it all together. You submit your full file to the Guichet Unique (One-Stop Shop) in Malabo or Bata. They handle:
- Commercial registration
- Tax ID (NIF) issuance
- Registration with the National Institute of Statistics
- Social Security registration
This is the bottleneck point, and timelines can be unpredictable. It helps massively to have local legal or corporate support to walk it through and keep an eyes on the file. Bureaucracy moves on its clock.
Opening your local bank account
Once you’ve got your registration done and dusted, it’s time to open your official operational bank account. Most major banks in Equatorial Guinea can accommodate corporate accounts. Some may request additional documentation or local references. Go in with your full file, and a translator if needed, and make it personal—it helps.
Hiring and local compliance
Equatorial Guinea has labor laws that require a certain percentage of local hires. That’s not just a regulation—it’s an opportunity to tap into local talent and build relationships that anchor your business in the community. You’ll need to draw up employment contracts in line with the Labor Code and register your employees with the social security system.
Tax and accounting
You’re now in the game, which means the taxman is too. Equatorial Guinea has corporate income tax (usually at 35%), VAT (15%), and a few other smaller levies. You’ll need a local accountant or firm who knows the OHADA system and local tax quirks inside out. Don’t wing this. Clean, accurate bookkeeping here isn’t just good practice—it’s your lifeline.
Final thoughts
Setting up a subsidiary in Equatorial Guinea takes patience, paperwork, and a pulse on how things work on the ground. But once you’re through the gates, you’re in a market that’s rich in potential, untapped in many sectors, and ready for serious players. Get the details right, and show respect for the process, and this small Central African nation can be a real home base for long-term success.
You may also find these articles helpful
Guide on Company Registration in Equatorial Guinea
Types of legal business structures in Equatorial Guinea
Types of legal business structures in Guinea
