Limited Company registration in Tanzania.

Registering a limited company in Tanzania is a common route for local and foreign entrepreneurs. The Business Registration and Licensing Agency (BRELA) handles company formation and issues the Certificate of Incorporation. This guide walks you through the required documents, the registration steps, expected costs, and timelines.

Types of Companies

  • Private Limited Company (Ltd) — most SMEs; typically requires at least 2 shareholders and 2 directors.
  • Public Limited Company (PLC) — for larger businesses; minimum 7 shareholders.
  • Foreign Company (Branch) — for overseas firms operating in Tanzania.

Requirements for Registering a company in Tanania

  1. Proposed company name (reserve via BRELA).
  2. Memorandum and Articles of Association (MAA).
  3. Form 14a — declaration of compliance.
  4. Details of shareholders and directors (full names, nationality, addresses, ID/passport copies).
  5. Registered office address in Tanzania.
  6. TIN application with Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA).
  7. Business licence from the relevant local authority or ministry after incorporation.

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1 — Reserve a Company Name

Apply online via BRELA’s ORS portal to reserve a name. A reservation typically costs a small fee and is held for 30 days.

Step 2 — Prepare Incorporation Documents

Draft the Memorandum and Articles of Association and complete Form 14a. Prepare ID/passport copies and contact details for all directors and shareholders.

Step 3 — Submit Application to BRELA

File your incorporation package through BRELA’s online system and pay the incorporation fees (see cost table below).

Step 4 — Receive Certificate of Incorporation

When BRELA approves your submission, you will receive the Certificate of Incorporation confirming legal registration.

Step 5 — Obtain TIN and Business Licence

Apply for a TIN at TRA and obtain the sector-specific business licence required for operations.

Step 6 — Open a Company Bank Account

Use the Certificate of Incorporation, TIN, and a board resolution to open a corporate account with a Tanzanian bank.

Costs of company registration in Tanzania(2025)

ItemEstimated Cost (TZS)
Name reservation~50,000
Incorporation filing fees~300,000 – 400,000 (varies by share capital)
Business licence100,000 – 1,000,000 (sector dependent)
TIN registrationFree
Professional/legal fees (optional)500,000 – 1,500,000
Costs are indicative and may change. Always confirm current fees on BRELA and TRA official sites.

Duration

  • Name reservation: 1–2 working days
  • BRELA processing: 5–10 working days
  • TIN & licence: 3–7 working days

Typical total: ~2–3 weeks depending on completeness and agency processing.

Benefits of Registering a Limited Company

  • Limited liability protection (separate legal entity).
  • Improved ability to raise capital and attract investors.
  • Contracts and property can be held in the company’s name.
  • Compliance with Tanzanian investment and corporate laws.

“Tanzania Company registration consultants.”

Frequently Asked Questions


Can a foreigner register a company in Tanzania?

Yes. Foreign investors may register a local subsidiary or a branch. Some sectors may require a local director — check sector-specific regulation.

How many directors are needed for a private limited company?

Typically a minimum of two directors is required.

Do I need a business licence after incorporation?

Yes. You must obtain the appropriate business licence before you start trading.

How long does registration take?

Approximately 2–3 weeks overall, depending on document readiness and agency turnaround.

Can I register online?

Yes. BRELA provides an online registration portal (ORS) for name reservation and filing.

Useful Links and Resources

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