📋 SAEPRIS Compliance Checklist
How to use this checklist:
- Identify your business level: Entry, Medium, or Enterprise.
- Go through each compliance area systematically.
- Mark each item as Completed / In Progress / Pending.
- Use this as a living document for funding applications, procurement, and SAEPRIS registration.
1. Entry-Level Enterprises (Startups / Micro-SMMEs)
Ideal for new businesses or sole proprietors starting operations.
| Compliance Area | Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Business Registration | Register with CIPC as a Private Company, Sole Proprietor, or Partnership | Use online portal for registration |
| Tax Compliance | Register with SARS for Income Tax and provisional tax | Obtain tax reference number |
| B-BBEE | Optional at this stage | Recommended if seeking early procurement opportunities |
| Bank Account | Open business banking account | Separate personal and business funds |
| UIF / COIDA | Register if employing staff | Mandatory for employee protection |
| Record-Keeping | Maintain basic financial records | Simple spreadsheet or accounting software |
| Licenses & Permits | Check industry-specific licenses | E.g., food, construction, health |
2. Medium Enterprises (Growing SMMEs)
For businesses with established operations, multiple employees, and moderate revenue.
| Compliance Area | Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Business Registration | Ensure legal entity is compliant with updated CIPC filings | Annual returns up-to-date |
| Tax Compliance | SARS registration for PAYE, VAT (if applicable), provisional tax | Tax clearance certificate required for funding |
| B-BBEE Certification | Obtain Level 4 or higher rating | Required for government procurement |
| UIF / COIDA | Ensure all employees are registered | Update regularly with staff changes |
| Financial Reporting | Prepare monthly/quarterly financial statements | Use accounting software or outsourced accounting |
| Employment Contracts | Formal contracts for employees | Include terms, leave, and benefits |
| Health & Safety Compliance | Workplace compliance with OHSA | Policies, risk assessments, PPE for staff |
| Licenses & Permits | Industry-specific licenses up to date | Renew annually |
| Digital Compliance | Obtain e-certificates from SAEPRIS if available | Useful for procurement & funding applications |
3. Enterprise-Level (Large Businesses / Corporates)
For fully established companies, multiple locations, and complex operations.
| Compliance Area | Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Corporate Governance | Comply with Companies Act and King IV principles | Board governance, risk management, internal controls |
| Tax Compliance | SARS tax returns, PAYE, VAT, and other applicable taxes | Maintain continuous tax clearance |
| B-BBEE Certification | Obtain verified rating (Level 3 or higher recommended) | Mandatory for procurement contracts |
| UIF / COIDA | Full compliance for all employees across branches | Annual audits recommended |
| Financial Reporting & Audit | Annual audited financial statements | IFRS or GAAP compliant |
| Employment Law | Labor law compliance, contracts, workplace policies | HR audits recommended |
| Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) | Compliance with OHSA, environmental regulations | Internal audits, certifications |
| Industry Licenses & Permits | All regulatory approvals active | Regular renewal schedule |
| Digital Compliance & E-Certificates | SAEPRIS verified digital certificates | Required for large-scale procurement/funding |
| Internal Policies & Risk Management | Risk registers, internal controls, GDPR/POPI compliance | Continuous monitoring recommended |
| Sustainability & ESG | Environmental, social, and governance reporting | Align with NDP 2030 and funding requirements |