Starting a business in Benin: foreigner's guide (2026)

APIEx's MonEntreprise.bj platform (launched by the Benin government with UNCTAD technical support) consolidates all registration steps — commercial registry (RCCM), tax identifier (IFU), labour directorate notification — into a single online process. Registration of a standard entity can be completed in as little as 24 hours on working days once documents are validated.

Benin's Investment Code and the OHADA framework impose no economy-wide ceiling on foreign equity stakes or control. Foreign investors receive national treatment, and no formal investment-screening mechanism for inbound FDI exists as of the 2025 U.S. State Department Investment Climate Statement.

Foreign natural and legal persons are prohibited from owning freehold land in Benin under the Land Code (Law 2013-01). They may, however, enter long-term leases of up to 50 years. This is the primary sector-specific restriction affecting foreign entrepreneurs.

Under OHADA reforms applied in Benin, the SARL (limited liability company, the most common SME structure) has no statutory minimum capital — articles of association set the amount freely. A Société Anonyme (SA) requires a minimum of XOF 10,000,000 (~USD 16,500). Sole proprietorships and SAS structures have no minimum.

The standard sequence is: (1) unique company-name search; (2) notarisation of articles of association (required for SARL/SA); (3) online submission via MonEntreprise.bj with identity documents and proof of registered address; (4) payment of registration fees (approx. XOF 10,000–50,000 depending on structure); (5) receipt of RCCM certificate and IFU tax number. Most steps are handled through the GUFE window.

Benin adopted a revised Investment Code (Law No. 2020-36) offering tax holidays, customs duty exemptions, and repatriation-of-profits guarantees. Disputes may be referred to the OHADA Common Court of Justice and Arbitration (CCJA) or ICSID, providing foreign investors with international arbitration recourse.