A guide to compliance
Always ensure that your supporting documents are not outdated or invalid. A certified copy must always have an original stamp and signature of the commissioner of oaths.
To enable the cidb to process applications timeously, please ensure that your application is accompanied by all documents required for the specific grade for which you are applying and the correct particulars are provided.
Applications for Grade 1
The required documents for registration are:
•A completed grade 1 application form;
•Originally certified ID copies of all principles up to a maximum of 20;
•The company registration documents;
•A valid original tax clearance certificate;
•Proof of payment of R450.00 registration fee per class of works applied for;
•For EB Class of Works, please attach an originally certified copy of an Electrical Contractor’s Certificate issued in the name of the company.
Grade 1 registration only requires a renewal after three years. Annual fee is not applicable for Grade 1 contractors.
Applications for Grade 2 to 9
Contractors applying for Grade 2 to 9 are required to submit the following documents:
•Application form: CRS F007;
•Proof of payment for registration;
•Company registration documents;
•Originally certified ID copies of all principals up to a maximum of 20;
•Valid Tax clearance certificate;
•Financial Statements for the two years immediately preceding the application.
•All applications from Grade 3 and above must be accompanied by financial statements prepared in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (GAAP) and/or the International Financial Reporting Standard (IFRS) and must be certified by a person registered with a professional institution;
•Grade 2 applications do not require Financial Statements but require a track record of at least R130 000.00;
•Track record documents for a contract completed in the last 5 years for each class applied for including:
oLetter of award;
oCertificate of Completion (Practical/Final Delivery);
o Final / Latest payment certificate.
•Certificates for Registered Professionals employed (as per grade applied for);
•For EB Class of Works, please attach an originally certified copy of an Electrical Contractor’s Certificate issued in the name of the company.
Foreign Companies
In addition to the above requirements for Grade 2 to 9, foreign companies must ensure that:
•The information provided is translated into English.
•All foreign companies must maintain an office in South Africa and must a have a registered physical address in South Africa.
Annual Updates
Contractors registered in Grade 2 to 9 will be required to confirm their particulars and pay the annual fees each year on the anniversary of their registration.
3 Year Renewals
Registration is valid for a period of three years. A registered contractor must apply for renewal three months before the existing registration expires. Contractors’ whose grading has not been renewed on the date of expiry will be removed from the register.
Exemptions from the Register
Joint Ventures
There is no need to register a joint venture (JV). However, each partner in the JV must be registered separately. The grade of the JV can be determined using the JV calculator which can be found on the cidb website.
Home builders
Home builders registered with the NHBRC do not need to register with the cidb unless they also wish to tender for other types of public sector construction work.
Labour only Contractors
Contractors who are provided with the bulk of construction material by the client should not register.
Where to register
Application forms together with the supporting documents may be submitted to your nearest cidb Provincial Office. These offices are operating in all 9 provinces around the country for contractors’ convenience, easy access and support.
For further information, please refer to the contractor registration form and detailed Guide for Contractor Registration.
In addition to this, the cidb has established a national call centre that enables contractors to track the progress of their applications and lodge their queries. The call centre is accessible on 086 100 2432, further information can also be obtained on www.cidb.org.za
Table of Contents
Related Resources
Student Loans in South Africa: How to Apply and What to Expect
For many young South Africans, accessing higher education is a dream that often comes with a financial challenge. Fortunately, several student loan optionsstrong> are available in South Africa to help fund university, college, or TVET studies. Whether you’re looking for a government loan like NSFAS or a private student loan from a bank, understanding the process is essential for success.
What Are Student Loans?
Student loans are a form of financial aid provided to eligible students to help cover tuition fees, books, accommodation, and other study-related expenses. In South Africa, these loans can come from government institutions like NSFAS or private banks such as Nedbank, Standard Bank, FNB, and Absa. Most loans offer repayment flexibility and low-interest options until you graduate.
Types of Student Loans in South Africa
- NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme): A government-funded loan/grant program for students from low-income households. Covers tuition, housing, transport, and meals.
- Bank Student Loans: Offered by most major banks. These are credit-based and require a guardian or parent as a co-signer.
- Private Loan Providers: Companies like Fundi offer educational loans covering various costs such as school fees, gadgets, and textbooks.
Requirements to Qualify for a Student Loan
Each provider has its own criteria, but most South African student loans require the following:
- Proof of South African citizenship or permanent residency
- Proof of registration or acceptance at a recognised tertiary institution
- Parent or guardian with a stable income to co-sign (for private loans)
- Completed application form with supporting documents (ID, proof of income, academic records)
How to Apply for a Student Loan
To apply for a student loan in South Africa, follow these steps:
- Identify your loan provider: Choose between NSFAS, a bank, or a private lender.
- Gather necessary documents: ID copies, academic transcripts, acceptance letters, and income statements.
- Complete the application form online or at a branch.
- Await approval: Some banks offer instant decisions, while NSFAS can take a few weeks.
- Receive disbursement: Funds are typically paid directly to the institution or your account, depending on the lender.
Loan Amounts and Repayment
The loan amount you can receive depends on your chosen lender and financial need:
- NSFAS: Covers full tuition, residence, books, and a personal allowance. The loan becomes a bursary if you pass all your courses.
- Banks: Can provide up to R120,000 or more annually, depending on tuition costs and credit history.
Repayment usually starts after graduation or once you start earning an income. Bank loans may require interest-only payments during your studies. NSFAS repayment only begins when you earn above a specific income threshold.
FAQs on Student Loans in South Africa
1. Can I apply for a student loan without a parent or guardian?
For government loans like NSFAS, yes. But most banks require a financially responsible co-signer, especially for students without an income.
2. Is NSFAS a loan or a bursary?
NSFAS starts as a loan, but it converts to a bursary if you meet academic performance requirements. This means you may not have to pay it back.
3. What is the interest rate on student loans?
Private banks offer competitive rates between 5% and 12%, depending on the applicant's credit profile. NSFAS charges a much lower interest rate, usually linked to inflation.
4. What happens if I fail my courses?
If you’re funded by NSFAS and fail, your loan won’t convert into a bursary, and you’ll need to repay the full amount. Banks may continue charging interest, and your co-signer may be held liable.
5. Can I use a student loan to pay for accommodation and laptops?
Yes. Both NSFAS and many bank student loans cover costs beyond tuition, including housing, meals, textbooks, and electronic devices like laptops or tablets.
Final Thoughts
Student loans in South Africa offer a much-needed financial lifeline to thousands of students every year. Whether you're applying through **NSFAS** or a private bank, ensure you understand the **terms, interest rates, and repayment conditions** before signing any agreement. Make informed decisions today to secure your academic and financial future tomorrow.