The Business Registration and Licensing Agency is the government agency responsible for registering and licensing businesses in Tanzania. It was established in 1999 under the Companies Act and has since been the primary regulatory body for companies in the country. BRELA’s mission is to promote economic growth by providing efficient and effective business licensing services.
It has made significant strides in improving its services over the years. It has introduced an online registration system, making it easier for businesses to register and obtain licenses. Additionally, BRELA has established a one-stop center for company registration, which has greatly reduced the time and cost required to register a business. As such, the agency has played a crucial role in promoting business growth and development in Tanzania.
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Registering a business with BRELA
It is a simple procedure that demands close attention to detail to register a firm with the Business Registration and Licensing Agency in Tanzania. Your journey will be aided by the steps listed below:
- Choose a business name and ensure it is available for registering.
- Obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) from the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA).
- Obtain a Business License from the relevant local authority.
- Prepare and submit the Memorandum and Articles of Association.
- Obtain a notarized declaration of compliance.
- Pay the fee and stamp duty.
- Obtain a certificate of incorporation.
- Register for Value Added Tax (VAT) with the TRA.
- Register for Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) with the TRA.
- Register for the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) and the Workers Compensation Fund (WCF).
By following these ten steps, you will be able to register your business with the authority and begin operating legally in Tanzania. It is important to note that failure to comply with any of these steps may result in delays or even rejection of your application.
Obtaining a license through BRELA
Another service provided by the division is the issuance of licenses. This service is required for productions that operate in certain industries, such as food and beverage, tourism, and transportation. To obtain business licenses through the Business registration and Licensing agency in Tanzania, follow these steps:
- Obtain a name reservation by submitting a completed Form 14A and paying the required fee.
- Register your business with the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) by submitting a completed TRA form
- Obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN).
- Obtain a license application form from the office or website.
- Complete the application form and attach all required documents.
- Submit the completed application form.
- Wait for your application to be processed and approved by BRELA.
- Once your application is approved, collect your license from the office.
Trademark registration via BRELA
Registering a trademark through the Registration and Licensing Agency in Tanzania is a necessary step for any business looking to protect its brand. By following the steps outlined below, applicants can ensure a smooth and successful process.
- Gather the necessary documents required for registration of the trademark.
- Submit the documents to the Registration and Licensing Agency in Tanzania.
- Pay the required fees for registration.
- Receive approval from the Agency for the registration of the trademark.
- Receive the certificate of registration from the Agency.
Other services
Here are the other few services offered by BRELA.
Company search
The agency offers company search services, which enable businesses to check the status of other companies. This service is useful for productions that want to verify the legitimacy of potential partners or competitors.
Incorporation
It provides company incorporation services, which involve setting up a company and issuing shares. This service is necessary for businesses that want to raise capital and operate as separate legal entities.
Company dissolution
It offers company dissolution services, which involve winding up a company and terminating its legal existence. This service is necessary for businesses that want to close down their operations.
Consultancy
The division provides advisory services, which offer guidance and support to businesses on various issues, such as legal compliance, tax, and accounting. This service is helpful for businesses that want to ensure that they are operating per the law.
Training
It also provides training and capacity-building services, which aim to enhance the skills and knowledge of owners and employees. This service is essential for businesses that want to improve their performance and competitiveness.
Important cooperation
BRELA, the Business Registration and Licensing Agency, has been working closely with several businesses and government agencies. These entities have been instrumental in ensuring that the unit’s mission of promoting and facilitating licensing is achieved.
One of the notable businesses that have been cooperating with BRELA is Vodacom Tanzania. Through their partnership, Vodacom Tanzania has been providing a platform for businesses to register and pay for licenses through their mobile money service, M-Pesa. This has made it easier for businesses to comply with the licensing requirements, ultimately contributing to the growth of the Tanzanian economy.
In addition to businesses, it has also been working with government agencies such as the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA). The TRA has been providing support to BRELA in terms of tax recording and compliance. This partnership has been crucial in ensuring that businesses are aware of their tax obligations and can comply with the tax laws of Tanzania.
