How do I register a company in Tanzania?

Reserve a name on BRELA ORS, prepare and sign MEMARTS and Form 14b, file incorporation on ORS, obtain TINs, then complete business licence and post-registration compliance.

How long does company registration take?

Typically 1–5 working days for incorporation once documents are in order, and 6–14 working days for full setup including tax, licences and bank account.

What documents are required for foreign shareholders?

Certified passports, recent photos, addresses, and—if the shareholder is a company—certified incorporation documents and a board resolution authorizing investment.

Do I need a physical office address?

Yes. A physical address is required for BRELA, TRA, and licensing. Virtual addresses are generally accepted for registration only.

What is the VAT registration threshold in Tanzania?

Businesses with annual taxable supplies meeting the TRA threshold must register for VAT. Many professional and cross-border services may require earlier registration; confirm with TRA based on your activity and projections.

What is the difference between TIC and TISEZA (SEZ/EPZ)?

TIC grants investment facilitation and incentives to qualifying projects across sectors, while TISEZA administers Special/Export Processing Zones with location-based incentives for export-oriented industries.

How do investors obtain Work and Residence Permits (Class A)?

Apply for Class A work permit through Labour authorities and a corresponding Residence Permit from Immigration, supported by incorporation documents, business plan and capital evidence.

What are typical costs for company setup?

Costs vary by share capital, sector licences, and whether foreign shareholders are involved. Budget for BRELA fees, notarization, TRA registrations, business licence, and service fees.

Can Zatra Consultants act as nominee shareholder or director?

Yes, where permitted by law and subject to KYC, escrow and service agreements that protect ownership, control and compliance.

What minimum capital is required for regulated sectors (e.g., microfinance)?

Minimum capital depends on licence class and regulator. For some microfinance categories, at least TZS 20 million may apply; always confirm current BoT rules for your specific licence.

Who needs a Work Permit in Tanzania?

Foreign investors and employees require a Work Permit (Class A for investors; Class B for professionals) and a corresponding Residence Permit.

What are the basic requirements for Class A (investor) permits?

Company incorporation documents, business plan, capital evidence, passport, photos, and supporting letters as required by authorities.

How long does Work/Residence Permit processing take?

Timelines vary by completeness and sector; most complete filings are processed within several weeks subject to approvals.

Can family members obtain dependent permits?

Yes. Spouses and dependents can apply for dependent Residence Permits with supporting documents.

Can permits be renewed?

Yes, subject to continued compliance, valid contracts, and timely filing before expiry.

Does Zatra handle end-to-end permits?

Yes—eligibility checks, document preparation, filings, follow-ups, and renewals.

What tax registrations are needed after incorporation?

Register for TIN (entity and directors). Depending on turnover and activities, register for VAT. Industry-specific taxes may also apply.

When should a company register for VAT?

Registration depends on taxable supplies thresholds and activity type. Many professional and cross-border services may require earlier registration—confirm with TRA based on projections.

What are typical ongoing tax filings?

Monthly/quarterly VAT where applicable, withholding taxes, provisional taxes, and annual corporate income tax returns with financial statements.

Are audited accounts required?

Yes for most companies; audited financial statements are filed and may be requested by regulators.

Does Zatra provide bookkeeping and compliance support?

Yes—bookkeeping, VAT and tax filings, payroll, annual returns, and audit coordination.

Can foreign companies claim tax incentives?

Eligible projects may access incentives under TIC or TISEZA depending on sector and location; Zatra assesses eligibility and manages applications.

Which licences are required for mineral trading or exports?

Depending on minerals and activities: Dealer Licences (e.g., gold, gemstones), export permits per shipment, and sector-specific approvals. EPZ/SEZ options may apply for processing.

What are the typical steps to obtain a Dealer Licence?

Company setup, compliance readiness, application submission to the Mining Commission, inspections, fee payments, and issuance upon approval.

Are royalties and government levies applicable on exports?

Yes. Royalties, inspection and regulatory levies apply by mineral type and transaction; official valuation and assays are typically required.

How does Kimberley Process Certification work for diamonds?

Diamond exports require KP certification following valuation, sealing and documentation as per the regulator’s procedures.

Can Zatra arrange compliance and logistics for shipments?

Yes—licensing, valuation coordination, assays, escrow frameworks and export clearances can be managed end-to-end.

Do SEZ/EPZ incentives apply to mineral processing projects?

Projects meeting export-orientation and location criteria may qualify for SEZ/EPZ incentives via TISEZA; Zatra assesses eligibility and manages applications.

Zatra Consultants – Expert Support for Business Licenses & Sector Permits in Tanzania

Tanzania Business Licence & Dealership Services

Obtain, Renew, and Manage All Types of Business Licences and Dealerships with Ease. From import/export and industrial licences to trade, petroleum, and minerals dealership permits — Zatra Consultants handles it all.

Overview

Every business in Tanzania requires a licence or permit issued by the relevant authority before commencing operations. Zatra Consultants offers complete licensing and dealership solutions that enable you to operate legally, meet all statutory conditions, and renew annually without stress.

Whether you’re opening a café, starting a mining dealership, importing lubricants, or establishing a manufacturing plant, we handle the entire process — from documentation and inspection scheduling to payment and follow-up with authorities.

Our Licensing & Dealership Categories

General Business Licences

Issued by: Local Government Authorities (Municipal or City Council)
Applies to: Dealership licenses, Retail, wholesale, consulting, and service businesses
Requirements:
- Company registration certificate
- TIN number
- Tax Clearance Certificate
- Lease agreement or physical address proof
- Some needs: Permits from respective authorities
Renewal: Annual

Industrial & Manufacturing Licences

Issued by: Ministry of Industry and Trade (MITI)
Applies to: Manufacturing, packaging, assembly, and processing industries
Requirements:
- Environmental Impact Assessment (NEMC) report
- Factory layout and safety inspection (OSHA)
- Business registration documents
- TIC/EPZA certificate for foreign investors
Renewal: Annual
Notice: Investors seeking tax incentives should apply for TIC or TISEZA registration simultaneously.

Import & Export Dealer Licences

Issued by: Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment (MITI) and TRA (Customs)
Applies to: Importers and exporters of goods including machinery, textiles, or food products.
Types:
- Import Licence (Industrial or Retail goods)
- Export Licence (Commodities, Raw Materials, or Finished Goods)
Conditions:
- Valid TIN, TAX Clearance and VAT registration
- Compliance with TBS standards
- Declaration of imported/exported goods
Renewal: Annual

Mineral Dealership Licences

Issued by: Tanzania Mining Commission (Dodoma)
Applies to: Dealers in gold, gemstones, copper, and other minerals.
Licence Categories:
- Metallic Minerals Dealer Licence (Gold, Copper, Iron, Aluminum, etc.)
- Gemstones Dealer Licence (Coloured stones, Spinel, Ruby, Sapphire, etc.)
- Diamond Dealer Licence (Special category under KP certification)
Government Fees (Approx.):
- Metallic minerals (Gold, Copper, Aluminium, Iron etc): $1,200
- Gemstones: $1,200
- Diamond: First grant: $2200, Renewal: $1,700
- Industrial Materials (Coal etc): $500
Zatra Service Fee: $1,000–$1,500 depending on category
Conditions:
- Must have registered office in Tanzania
- Local Partner or nominee shareholder/director with 25% and above shares
- Tax compliance certificate
- Bank guarantee or proof of capital
Renewal: Before new government calendar which is 1st of July each year
Notice: Exporters require a separate Export Permit for each shipment and must pay 6% royalty and 1% inspection fee.

Petroleum & Lubricant Dealership Licences

Issued by: Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA)
Applies to: Importation, storage, or retail of petroleum products, lubricants, and LPG.
Categories:
- Petroleum Importer Licence
- Lubricant Dealer Licence
- LPG Filling & Retail Licence
Conditions:
- Company registered under Tanzanian law
- Valid storage facilities inspection (EWURA + OSHA)
- Fire safety compliance certificate
- Technical manager approval
Renewal: Annual
Notice: Importers must comply with EWURA bulk import regulations and monthly reporting obligations.

Food, Health & Hospitality Permits

Issued by: TFDA (now TMDA), Municipal Health, and Fire & Rescue Department
Applies to: Restaurants, hotels, food processors, bakeries, and beverage producers.
Requirements:
- Premise inspection report
- Fire safety certificate
- Environmental Health clearance
- TMDA Food Handling Permit
Renewal: Annual or biannual depending on sector

Agriculture & Livestock Licences

Issued by: Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock & Fisheries
Types:
- Agricultural Input Dealer Licence (fertilizers, seeds, pesticides)
- Livestock Trading & Abattoir Permit
- Food Crops Trading Licence
Conditions:
- TBS quality standards
- Warehouse inspection report
- Agricultural registration certificate
Renewal: Annual

Transport, Logistics & Import Licences

Issued by: SUMATRA (now LATRA) and TRA Customs Division
Applies to: Logistics, transport, freight forwarding, and clearing companies.
Requirements:
- Vehicle inspection certificate
- Transport permit
- Customs licence (if clearing/forwarding)
Renewal: Annual
Notice: Cross-border operators must comply with EAC trade protocols and insurance requirements.

Real Estate, Construction & Engineering Licences

Issued by: Contractors Registration Board (CRB) and Architects and Quantity Surveyors Registration Board (AQRB)
Applies to: Developers, contractors, and design professionals.
Categories:
- Building, Civil, Mechanical, or Electrical Contractor Licence
- Real Estate Developer/Agency Licence
Conditions:
- Proof of technical qualifications
- Registered engineers/architects
- Financial capacity statement
Renewal: Annual

Education, Training & Institutional Permits

Issued by: National Council for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (NACTVET) and Ministry of Education
Applies to: Colleges, training centers, academies, and skill programs.
Requirements:
- Facility inspection
- Fire & Health clearance
- Curriculum approval by NACTVET
Renewal: Every 1–3 years depending on program type.

Common Licensing Notices & Compliance Tips

Renewal Period: Licences must be renewed annually before expiration to avoid penalties.
Display Requirement: All licences must be publicly displayed on the business premises.
Change Notifications: Any change of ownership, address, or nature of business must be reported to the issuing authority within 30 days.
Multiple Licences: Some businesses (e.g., restaurants or fuel dealers) require multiple permits — Zatra coordinates all under one application.
Inspections: Regulatory inspections may occur prior to or after licence issuance; Zatra assists with preparation and documentation.

Why Choose Zatra Consultants

End-to-end processing — from document preparation to physical inspection
Expert and strong experience with ministries and regulators (TRA, EWURA, TIC, MITI, TMDA, Mining Commission, etc.)
Transparent cost breakdowns and realistic timelines
Renewal reminders and compliance monitoring service

Ready to Begin?

📞 Call / WhatsApp: +255 747 912 965
✉️ Email: sales@zatra.co
🌐 Website: www.zatra.co

Call Us Now

+255 788 466 212

Mwenge Tower, Opposite Mlimani City

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