Companies follow a calendar year for corporate income tax (CIT), with each accounting period running from January through December.
Filing and Payment Deadlines
Businesses generally have six months after the financial year closes to submit their CIT returns. An exception applied to 2024 returns, which were due on 30 April 2025.
CIT payments must reach the authorities within 15 days after the return is filed. Minimum income tax instalments fall due on 15 July and 15 January.
Charges for Delays
Late submission attracts a monthly penalty of XAF 100,000. Outstanding tax also carries interest of 2.5% for every month of delay, increasing the cost of leaving obligations unsettled.
Audit Timelines and Assessment Limits
Limited reviews must finish within three months, while comprehensive inspections have a six-month timeframe. On-site work for comprehensive examinations can continue for another six months. The statutory assessment window extends four years from the tax payment’s due date.
Areas Receiving Attention
Auditors routinely examine withholding taxes in petroleum businesses, personal income tax and social contributions. Recent scrutiny increasingly covers transfer pricing and VAT on services foreign suppliers provide locally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tax year do companies in Equatorial Guinea follow?
The corporate income tax year runs from 1 January to 31 December.
When must companies submit CIT returns?
Returns are generally due within six months after year-end. The special deadline for 2024 returns was 30 April 2025.
When is corporate income tax payable?
Payment is due within 15 days after filing the CIT return.
What are the minimum income tax deadlines?
Minimum income tax is payable by 15 July and 15 January.
What happens if a company files late?
Late CIT returns attract a penalty of XAF 100,000 per month, plus monthly interest of 2.5% on overdue tax.
How long can tax inspections take?
Limited inspections have a three-month limit. Comprehensive inspections allow six months, with on-site work potentially extended by another six months.
How far back can authorities assess tax?
The assessment period generally extends four years from the date the tax becomes due.
Which issues receive particular audit attention?
Authorities examine oil and gas withholding taxes, personal income tax and social contributions. Transfer pricing and VAT on foreign-provided services also receive increasing scrutiny.