Company Registration in Tanzania
Are you planning to establish a company in Tanzania? At Mehta Integra International, we assist both local and foreign investors in navigating the company registration process with ease. Our team is experienced and dedicated to ensuring your business is registered smoothly and efficiently. Whether you’re a local entrepreneur or a foreign investor, we provide tailored guidance to help you establish your business in Tanzania successfully.
Comprehensive Support for Company Registration
We understand the complexities involved in setting up a business in Tanzania. That’s why our experts are here to offer end-to-end assistance throughout the registration process. From initial consultations to obtaining the necessary licenses and permits, we ensure you have a seamless experience while complying with all regulatory requirements.
Steps to Register a Company in Tanzania
Registering a company in Tanzania is a straightforward process, conducted through the Business Registration and Licensing Agency (BRELA). The agency handles all business registrations and post-registration procedures in the country. Setting up a company is a legal right for individuals and businesses looking to form a recognized entity under Tanzania’s company laws.
For foreign investors, specific regulations govern the registration process, ensuring compliance with the country’s laws.
How to Register a Company in Tanzania: Key Steps
- Select Your Business Structure: Determine the type of company you wish to establish.
- Register Your Business Name: Submit your chosen name for registration through BRELA.
- Prepare and Submit Your Memorandum and Articles of Association: These foundational documents outline your company’s structure and operations.
- Register with the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA): Obtain your company’s Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN).
- Acquire Your Business License: Ensure you have the proper licensing to legally operate in Tanzania.
Required Documents for Company Registration in Tanzania
- Certified Memorandum and Articles of Association
- Certified office lease agreement with stamp duty and withholding tax proof
- Passport copies of shareholders and directors
- TIN application forms
- VAT registration forms
- Employer registration forms
Business Structures Available in Tanzania
- Limited Liability Company (LLC): The most common structure for both locals and foreign investors, offering limited liability to shareholders with no minimum capital requirement.
- Public Company: Suitable for businesses looking to raise capital or list on the stock exchange, requiring a minimum of two directors and seven shareholders, including a Tanzanian national holding at least 40% of shares.
- Branch Office: A foreign company can establish a branch office in Tanzania to conduct business directly.
- Representative Office: Ideal for foreign businesses aiming to establish a presence in Tanzania without engaging in direct business activities.
Benefits of Registering a Company in Tanzania
Freedom to repatriate capital and profits with no foreign exchange restrictions.
Cost-effective business environment with one of the lowest consumer cost indices in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Access to Special Economic Zones offering tax incentives such as VAT exemptions and corporate tax holidays.
Legal Framework for Different Company Types
Tanzania’s legal framework accommodates various company structures, including private and public companies, each with specific rules and regulations regarding ownership, share transfer, and compliance. Private companies, for instance, have limited shareholder numbers and are not permitted to list shares publicly.
Post-Registration Compliance
Once your company is registered, it’s important to stay compliant with regulatory requirements. This includes filing annual returns, updating any changes in company details with the Registrar, and maintaining accurate financial records. Failure to comply may result in penalties or other legal consequences.
Streamlined Online Registration Process
BRELA has introduced a modern Online Registration System (ORS) that simplifies the registration process. Through this system, you can register your business, manage post-registration activities, and access other essential services remotely. The system also integrates with the TRA, ensuring that your company’s registration number aligns with your TIN ID.
