Looking to start a business in Tanzania? You are on the right track to capitalize on the country’s growing economy and business opportunities. Thanks to government efforts, company registration in Tanzania is now easier than ever. Whether launching a startup or expanding your operations, Tanzania offers a supportive environment that helps your business thrive.
Registering a company in Tanzania involves a few essential steps, documents, and decisions. In the video below, we guide you through the procedure, from gathering the necessary paperwork to selecting the most suitable type of company for your goals. You’ll also learn about the key advantages of setting up a business in Tanzania.
Tanzania Registrar of Companies
The Business Registrations and Licensing Agency (BRELA) is the government entity responsible for overseeing company registration in Tanzania. It operates under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, and serves as the Registrar of Companies.
BRELA is responsible for:
• Registering companies and business names under the Companies Act (Cap 212) and Business Names Act (Cap 213)
• Managing intellectual property, including trademarks and patents
• Issuing industrial licenses for businesses and industries
• Maintaining official records and processing post-registration changes
• Ensuring legal compliance of registered entities
To complete business registration in Tanzania, individuals or entities must follow the procedures and regulations established by BRELA under the Companies Act.
Types of Companies in Tanzania
BRELA registers both companies and business names, but only certain structures are incorporated as companies.
The following are registered under the Companies Act and have a separate legal identity. They receive either a Certificate of Incorporation or a Certificate of Compliance:
• Private Limited Company (Ltd)– Owned by private shareholders; liability is limited to the shares held.
• Public Limited Company (PLC) – Can offer shares to the public; liability is limited.
• Company Limited by Guarantee – Usually for non-profit or charitable purposes; members’ liability is limited to a guaranteed amount.
• Unlimited Company – Rare; members have unlimited liability.
• Foreign Company (Branch) – Incorporated outside Tanzania but registered locally to operate; issued a Certificate of Compliance.
Note: For registration purposes, companies are classified as Local (incorporated in Tanzania) or Foreign (incorporated abroad but registered locally). Even if owned by Tanzanians, overseas-incorporated firms are treated as foreign.
To register a sole proprietorship in Tanzania, as well as partnerships and other business types, the business must be registered as a business name with BRELA. They receive a Certificate of Business Name Registration and do not have separate legal identity or limited liability protection.
How to Register a Company in Tanzania
Online company registration in Tanzania allows individuals and businesses to complete the process electronically through BRELA’s system. To get started, you must first register as a user on the BRELA Online Registration System (ORS) and activate your account. Once your account is activated, log in and follow the steps in the e-services section to complete your company registration.
Step 1: Choose a Business Type
Decide the legal structure that suits your business (e.g., Private Limited, Public Limited, or Foreign Branch).
Step 2: Reserve a Company Name
Submit a name reservation via BRELA’s Online Registration System (ORS). Local companies must reserve a unique name; foreign branches use the parent company’s name.
Step 3: Prepare Company Documents
Gather required incorporation documents:
• Declaration of Compliance (Form 14b) – Submit the original signed by an advocate or notary public.
• Memorandum and Articles of Association – Submit the original properly drafted and notarized document.
• Proof of Identity of All Shareholders and Directors – Submit copies of valid passports or national IDs.
Step 4: Submit Application and Pay Fees
File all documents through BRELA ORS and pay the applicable government fees. Keep proof of payment.
Step 5: Receive Certificate of Incorporation/Compliance
BRELA reviews the application and issues:
• Certificate of Incorporation for local companies
• Certificate of Compliance for foreign companies
The review and approval process of company registration in Tanzania typically takes 3 to 14 business days.
Post Registration Requirements in Tanzania
Complete these mandatory post-registration requirements:
• Register any changes to company information with BRELA via ORS
• Companies registered before 2018 must also update legacy records
• File annual returns within 28 days of the incorporation anniversary
• Obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN) from Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA)
• Register for VAT if turnover exceeds TZS 200 million per year or TZS 100 million in six months
• Obtain a general business license from BRELA (national/international) or local authorities
• Obtain sector-specific licenses required by the industry
• Register employees and company with NSSF and Workers’ Compensation Fund (WCF)
• Obtain Occupational Safety and Health Authority (OSHA) certification
• Obtain Fire Safety Certificate as required
• Open a corporate bank account with the necessary documents
Conditional / If Applicable
• Ensure foreign nationals have the correct work permits and residence permits
• Register the lease agreement with BRELA if required by property documentation
Pay any filing fees online, as invoiced by BRELA.
Requirements for Company Registration in Tanzania
The documents required for company registration in Tanzania vary slightly depending on whether the company is locally or foreign-owned, so ensure you have the correct set based on your company type:
For Local Companies:
• Memorandum and Articles of Association (MemArts) – prepared in line with ISIC classification
• Consolidated Form – filled online, downloaded, printed, and signed
• Form 14a – particulars of directors and secretary
• Form 14b – declaration of compliance
• Ethics and Integrity Pledge Form – signed and stamped
Foreign Companies / Branch Offices:
• Certified copy of the company’s regiconstitutional documents
• Certified copy of Certificate of Incorporation from the home country
• Certified copy of the latest audited financial statements (or management accounts if newly incorporated)
• Form 434, outlining the company’s foreign and Tanzanian registered addresses, directors, authorized local representatives, and a notarized declaration.
• Consolidated Form – filled online, then downloaded, printed, and signed
• Ethics and Integrity Pledge Form – signed
Declaration of Ultimate Beneficial Owner in Tanzania
In Tanzania, every company is required to declare its ultimate beneficial owner (UBO) to BRELA. Beneficial ownership refers to the real individuals who ultimately own or control a company, even if their names do not appear in the official registration documents. Beneficial owner information must be submitted at incorporation through the online system and updated within 30 days of entry or any change.
The required forms include:
• Form 14b – Filed by direct beneficial owners (also required at incorporation).
• Form 14d – Filed by registered shareholders who do not hold the beneficial interest.
• Form 14e – Filed by persons who acquire a beneficial interest not registered in their name.
• Form 14f – Filed by the company to notify BRELA of changes resulting from share transfers, capital restructuring, or changes in voting rights.
Companies must maintain an updated register of beneficial owners and file the prescribed returns with the Registrar after paying the applicable fees required for company egistration in Tanzania.
Company Registration Fees in Tanzania
Business registration in Tanzania involves multiple statutory payments managed by BRELA and vary depending on whether the company is local or foreign-owned, the type of company, and its share capital or number of members.
Local companies pay fees based on their share capital, while companies without share capital are charged based on the number of members. Foreign-owned companies or branches typically face higher flat fees in USD and additional certification and notarization expenses.
Additional costs for company registration in Tanzania include filing and signing of documents, stamp duties, name reservation, sector-specific licenses, annual return filing, and potential penalties for late submissions. Fees are subject to change, so it is important to confirm current rates with BRELA.
Note: This does not include professional or consultancy fees.
Why Register a Company in Tanzania?
Registering a company in Tanzania offers several advantages for both local and foreign investors. Here are the key benefits:
• Legal recognition and protection
• Limited liability for shareholders
• Increased business credibility
• Access to banking, funding, and contracts
• Eligibility for tax incentives in selected sectors
With the introduction of online company registration in Tanzania through BRELA, starting a business is now faster, more transparent, and more accessible than ever.
Tips for a Smooth Registration Process
To make company registration in Tanzania smoother, ensure all documents are prepared accurately before submission, use BRELA’s online system to track progress, understand any tax or sector-specific licensing requirements, and respond promptly if authorities request additional information. For foreign investors or more complex registrations, consulting a local agent like Afrisetup can help navigate BRELA, TRA, and regulatory requirements efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes. Tanzanian law allows the formation of a Single Shareholder Company with limited liability.
Yes, it is possible to register a company in Tanzania remotely. We assist with the entire process, including paperwork, incorporation, and bank account setup.
Individuals can register their business names with the Business Registration and Licensing Authority (BRELA), an agency appointed by the Ministry of Trade and Industry. The registered name can be obtained before or after applying for a Tax Identification Number (TIN).
Typically, the process takes around 2 weeks, depending on application completeness and workload at BRELA.
The most efficient method is through the BRELA ORS platform, with the assistance of a registration consultant, to ensure that all documents and steps are correctly handled.
Foreign investors looking to do business in Tanzania can choose from several types of legal entities. These include a limited liability company (where members’ liability is limited to their shares), a partnership, a sole proprietorship, or establishing a branch of an existing foreign company.
Tanzania offers significant business potential, supported by key sectors like agriculture, mining, tourism, and renewable energy. Companies seeking access to an expanding market and a stable economic environment will find promising opportunities in the country.
Conclusion
Company Registration in Tanzania unlocks the country’s thriving business opportunities while providing legal protection, credibility, and funding access. To ensure success, understand the different company types, complete post-registration requirements, and leverage available tax incentives.
Partner with experts like Afrisetup to navigate regulations efficiently for a smooth process. Contact us today to get started!
