Your turnover decides the route
Under the generic Codes of Good Practice issued under the B-BBEE Act 53 of 2003:
| Annual turnover | Category | What you need |
|---|---|---|
| R10 million or less | Exempted Micro Enterprise (EME) | Sworn affidavit |
| R10m to R50m, at least 51% black owned | Qualifying Small Enterprise (QSE) | Sworn affidavit |
| R10m to R50m, less than 51% black owned | QSE | Verification certificate |
| Above R50 million | Generic enterprise | Verification certificate |
Some sectors, such as construction, tourism and financial services, have their own sector codes with different thresholds. Check your sector first.
Automatic levels on an affidavit
- 100% black owned: Level 1.
- At least 51% black owned: Level 2.
- Less than 51% black owned (EME only): Level 4.
Validity and who issues each
An affidavit is signed by the business owner before a commissioner of oaths, or generated through the CIPC system for companies. A certificate is issued only by a SANAS-accredited verification agency after it checks your evidence. Both are valid for 12 months. Misrepresenting your status is a criminal offence under section 130 of the Act.
When it is worth restructuring ownership
If tenders or key customers require a better level than your current ownership allows, an ownership transaction may be the answer. It must give genuine voting rights, economic interest and participation. Paper-only arrangements are fronting, which the Act prohibits.
Common questions
Do I need a B-BBEE certificate if my turnover is under R10 million?
No. A business with annual turnover of R10 million or less is an Exempted Micro Enterprise and proves its status with a sworn affidavit, not a verification certificate.
How long is a B-BBEE affidavit valid?
12 months from the date it is signed. The same applies to a verification certificate.
Can a QSE use an affidavit?
Yes, if it is at least 51% black owned. Otherwise it needs a certificate from a SANAS-accredited verification agency.
Not sure which one you need?
Check your likely level in two minutes, free. If you need a scorecard or ownership change, we quote a fixed fee upfront.
Related guides
Last updated September 2026. This guide is general information on South African regulatory procedure and is not legal advice on your specific matter. Dynamic Legal Services (Pty) Ltd is a private legal advisory firm and is not a government department or regulator.