How to Start a Business in Port Elizabeth — 2026 Guide
Quick Overview
Starting a business in Port Elizabeth requires registrations across multiple government layers. Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality handles local business licensing.
PermitBoard generates a complete, ordered roadmap for your specific business type in Port Elizabeth. Get My Roadmap →
What You'll Pay
CIPC: R125–R475. Municipal: R500–R2,000.
The Permit Stack
Step 1: CIPC company registration (R125–R475)
Step 2: SARS tax registration (FREE)
Step 3: Municipal business licence (if required — restaurants, salons, health-related)
Step 4: B-BBEE compliance (optional but often needed for contracts)