Setting up a trust in South Africa has become more complex under the updated 2025 registration process. It is crucial to understand the new requirements before you begin. Whether you are acting for a private entity or a government department, understanding the updated rules will save time, ensure compliance, and position your organisation for sustainable success.
In this article, we break down the essentials of trust registration in South Africa, what has changed, what to prepare, and how Centacc can help you align the process with your wider strategic goals.
What’s Changed in Trust Registration for 2025?
If you are wondering how to register a new trust in South Africa in 2025, here’s the crux: new compliance and disclosure rules have been implemented under the General Laws (Anti-Money Laundering and Combating Terrorism Financing) Amendment Act.
The implications are straightforward:
- Increased transparency obligations now apply.
- The Master of the High Court has revised documentation requirements.
- Accountable institutions must gather more detailed information on beneficial ownership.
These changes aim to tighten financial oversight and build confidence in the trust system. However, they also mean you cannot rely on shortcuts – or use outdated templates – to get the job done.
Why This Matters for Public and Private Organisations
Trusts are no longer exclusive to high-net-worth individuals or families. They play a critical role in strategic planning for public sector projects, Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) initiatives, education and development funds, and asset protection for companies.
If your organisation is setting up a trust to support a long-term goal—such as managing assets, running a development project, or redistributing land—you need to ensure the registration process is legally sound from the outset.
Errors in documentation or missed disclosure deadlines may result in penalties, administrative delays, or reputational damage.
Trust Registration: What You’ll Need in 2025
Below is a handy table outlining the key documents and steps involved in trust registration for the new year:
Requirement | Details |
Trust Deed | Must clearly state objectives, beneficiaries, and trustee powers. |
Certified ID Copies | All trustees and the founder must submit certified copies of their IDs. |
Beneficial Ownership Disclosure | Under the 2025 rules, all ultimate beneficial owners must be declared. |
Proof of Address | Required for all trustees and the founder. |
Trust Registration Fee | Payable to the Master of the High Court. |
Appointment Letter for Trustees | Updated 2025 form templates must be used. |
SARS Registration (Post Approval) | Required once trust is registered with the Master’s Office. |
Trustee Resolution | A formal resolution setting out how the trust will operate. |
While this list may appear manageable, ensuring each step is completed correctly—and in the proper order—is where many organisations encounter difficulties.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Trust registration in South Africa is straightforward if managed carefully, but common pitfalls include:
- Using outdated templates – older forms will not meet the 2025 requirements.
- Incomplete beneficiary declarations – failing to disclose ultimate beneficial ownership is a compliance risk.
- Delays in trustee appointments – without properly authorised trustees, your trust cannot transact or open a bank account.
- Late SARS registration – SARS expects immediate registration once the Master’s Office approval is granted.
Customised Support with Centacc
At Centacc, we do more than process paperwork. We align trust registration with your broader organisational goals. Whether your priority is compliance, asset management, or long-term governance, we tailor the process to your needs.
We have guided both public and private sector clients through complex regulatory landscapes with strategic insight. Trusts may be legal structures, but they also reflect your values and long-term planning. That is why we treat each case with bespoke attention, ensuring your registration process is smooth, compliant, and aligned with your mission.
Ready to Register a Trust in 2025?
With the new rules in place, there is no room for guesswork. Whether you are figuring out how to register a trust in South Africa in 2025 or need assistance preparing the necessary documents, Centacc can guide you through the process—with professional insight and zero legal jargon.
Explore our Trust Services at Centacc and book a consultation with one of our specialists today.
