When people hear that they need to deposit capital before registering a company in Cameroon, the first reaction is often surprise.
Some even ask, “Is that money for the government?” or “Will I lose it?”

Let’s clear the air. Depositing capital isn’t a penalty — it’s a declaration. It’s your way of showing the world, “I’m serious about this business.”

If you’re registering a SARL (Private Limited Company), your authorized capital represents the total amount the shareholders agree to contribute to start the business. It’s the foundation of your company’s financial identity — what gives it structure, credibility, and strength.

When you deposit this capital into a company bank account under formation, the bank issues an attestation de dépôt de capital (capital deposit certificate).
This certificate proves that your company has the funds to begin operations. It’s one of the documents that the notary uses to finalize your company statutes and prepare your registration file.
In simple terms, this step is not just about following the law — it’s about building trust.

Why Do We Deposit Capital?

Depositing your capital separates your personal money from your business money.
That separation matters more than most people realize. It’s what allows your business to have its own financial identity.

It also helps you maintain transparency with partners and the tax authorities. When investors, suppliers, or clients see that your capital is deposited and traceable, they’re more likely to trust your company.

From a legal standpoint, the deposit proves that you have fulfilled your part of the shareholder agreement — the money you pledged is now officially in the business. From a practical standpoint, it’s your first step toward professional credibility.

What Is Authorized Capital — And Why Does It Matter?

Authorized capital (sometimes called share capital) is the total amount of money the company is founded on.
Each shareholder contributes a portion of it — and their ownership is determined by how much they contribute.

For example, if you and two partners start a company with a capital of 1,500,000 FCFA, and you contribute 750,000 FCFA, your ownership is 50%.

That number — the authorized capital — is also what appears on your company statutes and registration certificate. It’s the financial backbone of your business.

When banks, investors, or public institutions assess your business, they look at your capital to gauge your seriousness and capacity.
A company with a capital of 100,000 FCFA may struggle to win a tender that requires proof of financial stability. Meanwhile, one with a capital of 2 million FCFA stands a better chance.

Read Also: Do I Need to Deposit Capital Before Registering My Company

That doesn’t mean you should inflate your capital.
It simply means you should be strategic — set an amount that’s realistic for your operations but strong enough to build confidence.

What Happens to the Money After Deposit?

Your capital doesn’t disappear. It remains in the company’s account and can be used for legitimate business activities once the company is fully registered.
You can use it to pay rent, buy equipment, hire staff, or handle early expenses.

The idea is simple — show the authorities and your partners that your business can stand on its own feet from day one.

Company Registration in Cameroon

Depositing your capital is more than just a formality. It’s a public statement that says, “This business is real.”
It’s what gives your company financial identity, credibility, and trust in the marketplace.

At OpenHub Consulting Ltd, we guide entrepreneurs through every step of the process — from choosing the right capital structure to obtaining your capital deposit certificate and completing registration. We also help you handle compliance, accounting, and payroll so your business doesn’t just start — it grows.

If you’re thinking of registering a company in Cameroon, let’s help you do it the right way.

Start. Run. Grow your Business in Cameroon — the right way.
For company registration in Cameroon, you can contact us:
📍 Bonamoussadi, Douala | 🌍 openhubconsulting.com | 📞 +237 683 82 36 32

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