Company registration in Tanzania is becoming increasingly straightforward, making it easier for entrepreneurs and investors to establish businesses in one of East Africa’s growing economies. Whether you are starting a new venture or expanding an existing company, Tanzania offers a business-friendly environment supported by ongoing government reforms and investment opportunities designed to encourage growth and long-term success.
In the video below, we guide you through the procedure for registering a company in Tanzania, 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 business registration 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.
Tanzania Registered Companies
BRELA registers both companies and business names, but only certain structures are incorporated as companies.The following are companies registered in Tanzania 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 the Business Registrations and Licensing Agency (BRELA) Online Registration System (ORS). To get started, you must first create a user account on the BRELA ORS platform and activate it through email verification. Once your account is active, log in and follow the e-services section to begin the company registration process.
Step 1: Choose a Business Type
Decide on the legal structure that best suits your business activities. Common business structures in Tanzania include:
- Private Limited Company
- Public Limited Company
- Company Limited by Guarantee
- Foreign Branch Office
The structure you choose will determine the registration requirements, management structure, and legal obligations of the business.
Step 2: Conduct a Company Name Search and Reservation
Carry out a company name search through BRELA’s Online Registration System to confirm that your preferred business name is available and not already registered by another entity. Once approved, reserve the company name before proceeding with incorporation.
For foreign companies opening a branch in Tanzania, the branch normally operates using the parent company’s registered name.
Step 3: Prepare the Required Company Documents
After reserving the company name, prepare the incorporation documents required by BRELA. These typically include:
- Memorandum and Articles of Association – A properly drafted document outlining the company’s objectives, internal rules, and management structure.
- Form 14A – Application for registration containing details of directors, shareholders, company secretary, and registered office address.
- Declaration of Compliance (Form 14b) – Signed by an advocate, notary public, or authorized legal professional confirming that all legal requirements have been met.
- Copies of Identification Documents – Valid passports, national IDs, or other accepted identification documents for all shareholders and directors.
- Registered Office Address Details – The official physical address of the company in Tanzania.
Step 4: Notarization and Authentication of Documents
Certain incorporation documents may need to be notarized and authenticated by a notary public or Commissioner for Oaths to confirm their legality and authenticity, especially for foreign shareholders or directors.
Step 5: Submit the Application and Pay Registration Fees
Upload and submit all required documents through BRELA ORS and pay the prescribed government registration fees. The registration fees are usually calculated based on the company’s authorized share capital. Keep copies of payment receipts and application confirmations for future reference.
Step 6: Verification and Approval by BRELA
BRELA reviews and verifies the submitted application and supporting documents. If the application satisfies all legal requirements, the Registrar will approve the registration and issue:
- A Certificate of Incorporation for local companies, or
- A Certificate of Compliance for foreign companies.
The review and approval process of company registration in Tanzania typically takes 3 to 14 business days depending on the completeness of the application and the workload at BRELA.
Step 7: Register for Tax Identification Number (TIN)
After incorporation, the company must register with the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) to obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN). The TIN is required for tax compliance, opening a business bank account, and conducting commercial activities in Tanzania.
Step 8: Obtain Business Licenses and Sector Permits
Depending on the nature of your business activities, you may need to apply for additional business licenses, permits, or regulatory approvals from relevant government authorities. Requirements vary across industries such as finance, tourism, construction, import/export, telecommunications, and healthcare.
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. For foreign companies, here are the requirements:
- A certified copy of the parent company’s Certificate of Incorporation.
- A certified copy of the parent company’s constitutional documents, such as the Memorandum and Articles of Association or equivalent statutes.
- Details of the company’s directors and shareholders, including their full names, nationalities, and residential addresses.
- Form 14b showing the registered office address in Tanzania.
- Form 434 containing information on directors, company secretary, local representatives, registered office details, and a compliance declaration. This form must be notarized.
- A Power of Attorney authorizing the appointment of local representative(s) in Tanzania.
- Recent audited financial statements of the parent company, where applicable or requested by the authorities.
- Copies of passports or national identification documents for directors, shareholders, and local representatives.
- Certified English translations for documents prepared in another language, together with legalization or apostille certification for foreign-issued documents where necessary.
Company Registration Fees in Tanzania
The cost of registering a company in Tanzania depends on several factors, including the type of business, share capital, and whether professional assistance is required. Below is an overview of the common expenses businesses may incur during the registration process.
Estimated Officials Cost (TZS)
| Registration Item | Estimated Officials Cost (TZS) | Description |
| Company Name Reservation | Around 50,000 | Fee paid to reserve and secure a unique business name before incorporation. |
| Company Incorporation Fees | Approximately 300,000 – 400,000 | Registration charges paid to incorporate the company. The amount may vary depending on the company’s share capital. |
| Business Licence Fees | Roughly 100,000 – 1,000,000 | Licensing costs differ based on the type of business activity and industry sector. |
| TIN Registration | No official fee | Registration for a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) with the Tanzania Revenue Authority is generally free of charge. |
| Professional or Legal Assistance | Contact Afrisetup for an official quote. | Optional costs for lawyers, consultants, or company registration agents assisting with the incorporation process. |
The fees for company registration in Tanzania change over time.Kindly contact us to get the latest charges.
Why Register a Company in Tanzania?
Registering a company in Tanzania offers several advantages for both local and foreign investors. A formally registered business gains legal recognition, improves its professional image, and creates better opportunities for growth and expansion in the Tanzanian market.
Some of the major benefits of company registration in Tanzania include:
- Limited Liability Protection: Incorporating as a Private Limited Company (LLC) shields your personal assets from business debts and legal claims.
- Market Credibility & Financing: Registered businesses appear more professional and are trusted by banks, partners, and angel investors for loans and financing.
- Government Tenders: Legal registration is mandatory to bid on lucrative government and NGO contracts.
- Investment Incentives: Formal registration allows you to apply for strategic investment certificates through the Tanzania Investment Centre (TIC), which offer various fiscal and non-fiscal benefits.
- Brand Protection: Your business name and identity are officially protected from unauthorized use by competitors.
FAQs About Registering a Company in Tanzania
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!