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In Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, all businesses require to be registered as dictated by the Companies Act No.12 of 2002. The Business Registration and Licensing Agency (BRELA) is mandated to oversee all business registration processes. The body is responsible for operations related to the registration, management and administration of laws regarding companies, business names, industrial licensing, patents, trademarks and copyrights.
Navigating legal procedures for business registration in Tanzania can be complex and time-consuming. You may need a lawyer to help interpret the laws, prepare necessary legal documents, help ensure regulatory compliance, and represent your interests in case of any legal conflicts. A legal expert can also provide essential advice regarding the legal structure of your business, tax obligations, and other legal matters related to operating a business.
Business registration laws in Dar es Salaam insist on the need for businesses to register with BRELA, either as a Limited Liability Company, a Public Limited Company, or a Business Name. It is also mandatory for businesses to hold a tax identification number issued by the Tanzania Revenue Authority. Moreover, all companies are required to submit annual returns as per local laws. Those failing to abide by these laws can face stringent penalties including fines or business dissolution.
You will need to fill in the appropriate form and submit it to BRELA, with information about your business like the proposed business name, type of business, intended structured, and key stakeholders. Some verification documents may also be required to verify identity and address.
The time taken to register a business can vary depending upon several factors, but it typically takes between 2 to 3 weeks.
Yes, foreign nationals can register a business in Dar es Salaam, provided they meet certain specific requirements set by the Tanzania Investment Centre.
For Limited Liability Companies, it is compulsory to have at least two shareholders, but there's no requirement for them to be Tanzanian nationals or residents.
Failure to register a business can attract penalties varying between fines, imprisonment terms, or in certain extreme cases, the business might be ordered for dissolution.
For more complete information and guidance,BRELA (Business Registration and Licensing Agency) and TRA (Tanzania Revenue Authority) websites are valuable resources. The Tanzania Investment Centre (TIC) can provide guidance for foreign investors.
If you need legal assistance with business registration, consider consulting with a local lawyer familiar with business registration laws and processes in Tanzania. They will guide you through the process, help you to prepare the necessary documents, ensure compliance to local laws and advise you on the most suitable business structure according to your needs and circumstances.
