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At the most basic level, FICA Compliance requires
- Registration with FICA
- Developing an RMCP
The Financial Intelligence Centre issues extensive supporting documentation. These documents are also updated frequently. The documents listed on this page can be downloaded directly from the fic.gov.za website and links to the current version of each document as of 13 October 2025.
Registration with FICA
PUBLIC COMPLIANCE COMMUNICATION 5D
ON REGISTRATION WITH THE FINANCIAL INTELLIGENCE CENTRE IN TERMS OF SECTION 43B OF THE FINANCIAL INTELLIGENCE CENTRE ACT, 2001 (ACT 38 OF 2001)
Issued October 2023 and covers 64 pages. This document contains critical information on the who, what why of registering with FIC. This document provides the background to which organizations need to register, and contains valuable advice on the process to follow.
Developing an RMCP
PUBLIC COMPLIANCE COMMUNICATION No 53
ON THE RISK MANAGEMENT AND COMPLIANCE PROGRAMME IN TERMS OF SECTION 42 OF THE FINANCIAL INTELLIGENCE CENTRE ACT, 2001 (ACT 38 OF 2001) FOR DESIGNATED NON-FINANCIAL BUSINESSES AND PROFESSIONS
Issued August 2022 and covers 44 pages. This document outlines the expectations of FIC concerning the RMCP and technical content required to be considered compliant. This document forms the core of FICA compliance and an incomplete, or inappropriate RMCP will automatically result in a non-compliant finding.
Revised Guidance Note 7A
Revised-Guidance-Note-7A –Implementation of various aspects of the FIC Act
ON THE IMPLEMENTATIONOF VARIOUS ASPECTS OF THE FINANCIAL INTELLIGENCE CENTRE ACT,2001 (ACT 38 OF 2001)
Issued September 2025 and covers 76 pages. This revised document replaces Guidance Note 7A issued in February 2025. This document is essential reading for understanding concepts fundamental to the FICA process. Among other essential topics, it covers Know-Your-Client concepts, Ultimate Beneficial Ownership and developing a Risk Based Approach.
These links are presented as a first step approach to FICA compliance, and does not intend to cover all topics for all Accountable Institutions. These three documents cover almost 2oo pages and only provide guidance on what is required. It should be noted that subsequent to registration, FIC allows a grace period of 90 days for new Accountable Institutions to complete their FIC registration and submission of Risk Compliance Returns (a report) and RMCP. This long grace period is intentional. FIC appreciates the time and care required to meet the expected requirements.
If you require assistance in meeting your compliance obligations, please contact us for more information.