How to register a company in Tanzania
To register a company in Tanzania, incorporate it with BRELA: reserve a company name, file the incorporation documents and appoint directors. Once registered, register the company for tax with Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), and register as an employer and for VAT if those apply.
The steps
- 1 Reserve a company name with BRELA.
- 2 File the incorporation documents and appoint directors.
- 3 Register the company for tax with Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) to get a taxpayer number.
- 4 Register as an employer (with the NSSF (national social-security fund)) if you will hire staff.
- 5 Register for VAT once turnover passes TZS 200 million (mainland).
Frequently asked questions
Which body registers companies in Tanzania?
Companies in Tanzania are registered with BRELA.
Do I register for tax separately in Tanzania?
Yes — after incorporation you register the company for tax with Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA).
More on Tanzania
- Company tax — Tanzania
- VAT / sales tax — Tanzania
- Hiring staff — Tanzania
- Start a business — Tanzania
- Data protection — Tanzania
- Tax clearance — Tanzania
- Empowerment / B-BBEE — Tanzania
- Licences & permits — Tanzania
- Payroll & employee tax — Tanzania
- Importing & customs — Tanzania
- Annual returns — Tanzania
- Full Tanzania compliance guide
Register a company elsewhere in SADC
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Reviewed June 2026 from official sources. General information only — confirm with Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) or a registered professional.