The Office of the Registrar of Companies (ORC) has begun enforcing penalties against companies that have failed to file their Beneficial Ownership (BO) information, as required under Ghana’s Companies Act, 2019 (Act 992).
In a press release issued on Monday, the ORC said a penalty of GH¢500 has taken effect from January 12, 2026, for all existing companies that remain non-compliant, despite earlier reminders.
“The Office of the Registrar of Companies wishes to inform all existing companies that failed to file their Beneficial Ownership Information of enforcement of a Five Hundred Ghana Cedis (GH¢500) penalty regime effective Monday 12th January, 2026,” the statement said.
The enforcement follows a public notice issued on October 15, 2025, which urged companies to submit their BO information by October 30, 2025. The ORC said some companies have still not complied.
According to the ORC, the directive is backed by Sections 13(2)(m) and 373(1) of the Companies Act, which require companies to disclose individuals who ultimately own, control, or influence them.
“The law mandates companies to declare individuals who ultimately own, control or influence the company,” the statement noted.
The requirement applies to private and public companies limited by shares, companies limited by guarantee, unlimited liability companies, and external companies operating in Ghana.
The ORC warned that individuals who fail to provide accurate BO information, or who knowingly submit false or misleading details, risk criminal sanctions.
“An individual who fails to provide such information or knowingly provides false or misleading information is liable on summary conviction to a fine or a term of imprisonment… or to both,” the statement said, citing Section 35 of the Act.
Acting Registrar of Companies, Mrs. Maame Samma Peprah, encouraged affected companies to regularise their status promptly to avoid further sanctions.
“Compliance not only fulfils legal obligations but also promotes accountability, transparency, and trust in Ghana’s business environment,” she said.
The ORC urged the public to contact its offices for further clarification and support.
