Senegal’s economy grew by 8.8%, ranking it among the most stable and fastest-growing economies. Setting up a business in Senegal can be a strategic decision for entrepreneurs and investors looking to access one of Francophone West Africa’s growing markets. With a strong focus on digital innovation, government-backed business reforms, and its role as a key hub for trade within the region, Senegal presents exciting opportunities across various sectors, including fintech, agribusiness, energy, and technology.

If you’re planning to start a business in Senegal, this guide outlines the essential steps to register your company legally and introduces a simpler, faster alternative that’s helping African entrepreneurs scale across borders with ease, using a Merchant of Record like Startbutton.

We’ve broken the process down into a simple, step-by-step guide so you can get started confidently.

1. Choose a business structure

Your first step is selecting the right legal structure for your business. The most common types in Senegal include:

• Sole proprietorship (Entreprise Individuelle): Suitable for small businesses run by a single individual.
  
  

• Limited Liability Company (SARL): Ideal for small to medium-sized enterprises, requiring at least one shareholder and a low minimum capital threshold.
  
  

• Public limited company (SA): Typically used by larger businesses, requiring at least one shareholder and a higher minimum capital deposit.
  
  

• Branch or Subsidiary of a foreign company: This structure allows an established foreign business to operate in Senegal under its parent brand.

2. Verify business name availability

Next, check if your desired business name is available by conducting a name search at the Business Formalities Center (Bureau d’Appui à la Création d’Entreprise (BCE). If the name is available, you can reserve it officially.

3. Prepare required documents

You’ll need to gather and submit the following documents:

• Business name reservation certificate

• Articles of Association (Statuts)

• Proof of identity for shareholders and directors

• Proof of address for the business in Senegal

• Capital deposit certificate (if applicable)

• Lease agreement or proof of premises

• Declaration of non-conviction for directors

4. Register with the commercial court

Once your documents are ready, submit your application to the Commercial Court (Registre de Commerce) in Dakar or the region where your business will operate. Upon approval, you will receive your Registration Certificate (RC), which legally establishes your business in Senegal.

5. Obtain Tax Identification Number (NINEA)

All businesses must register with the Tax Authority (Direction Générale des Impôts et des Domaines) to receive a Tax Identification Number (NINEA). This number is essential for invoicing, tax filing, and regulatory compliance in Senegal.

6. Register for Social Security and Labor compliance

If you intend to hire employees locally:

• Register with the Social Security Fund (IPRES) and the Social Security Institution (CSS).

• Submit labor contracts to the Ministry of Labor as required by Senegalese law.

7. Open a business bank account

Finally, open a corporate bank account with a Senegalese bank. You’ll need:

• Your registration certificate (RC)

• NINEA

• Proof of identity for the authorized signatories

Here’s a faster way to sell in Senegal

While registering a business in Senegal is straightforward, completing the full process can take up to 4–6 weeks, longer if you’re managing the process remotely. For entrepreneurs selling digital services, SaaS products, or cross-border offerings, this setup time may delay market entry.

That’s where Startbutton’s Merchant of Record (MoR) solution comes in.

With Startbutton, you can:

• Sell in Senegal and 14 other African countries without incorporating locally

• Accept payments in XOF or USD, with payouts in your preferred currency.

• Skip VAT registration and tax headaches—we handle regulatory compliance for you.

• Generate automated invoices and maintain tax transparency for your global clients.

Whether you're a SaaS founder or an entrepreneur launching a digital service in Senegal, Startbutton lets you scale faster, stay compliant, and focus on growth—without the paperwork.

Conclusion

Registering your business in Senegal is a manageable process that ensures legal compliance and access to the country’s dynamic economy. By following these steps and meeting local regulatory obligations, you’ll position your business for success in West Africa’s rising market.

If you prefer a faster, stress-free way to operate in Senegal, platforms like Startbutton simplify every step, from accepting payments to handling tax and compliance, so you can focus on what matters most: growing your business.

Got questions about registering in Senegal or how Startbutton can help?
Contact us at sales@startbutton.africa or sign up here to get started.