How to register a business name or company in Uganda with URSB
A business name costs UGX 35,000 to reserve and UGX 55,000 to register; a small private company UGX 105,000. Here are the URSB steps and fees.
The Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) registers business names and companies in Uganda. Most of the process is now online through URSB's business registration system, so you do not need to visit an office. Registering your business gives it legal recognition, lets you open a business bank account, and makes it easier to win contracts and get a loan. This guide explains how to register a business name or company in Uganda with URSB, the fees, and what to do after registration.
Business name or company?
A business name is designed for sole traders and partnerships. It is simple and cheap to register, but the business is not legally separate from you, so you are personally responsible for its debts. If the business cannot pay a supplier or a loan, your personal property can be at risk.
A private company limited by shares is a separate legal person. It can own property, sign contracts and borrow in its own name, and it protects the owners' personal assets because shareholders are only liable up to the value of their shares. In return, a company has more paperwork, including annual returns and keeping company records. Many entrepreneurs start with a business name and convert to a company as the business grows, takes on investors or bids for larger tenders.
URSB registration fees
URSB publishes its fees, which include:
- Business name reservation: UGX 35,000
- Business name registration: UGX 55,000
- Company name reservation: UGX 35,000
- Company registration with nominal share capital up to UGX 5 million: UGX 105,000
- Company registration with share capital above UGX 5 million: 1.5% of the nominal share capital
- Annual return for a private company: UGX 55,000
Choosing a modest nominal share capital keeps registration costs down, since anything above UGX 5 million is charged at 1.5%. Confirm fees on the URSB website before paying, as they can change.
How to register a business in Uganda with URSB
1. Search and reserve a name. Use URSB's online business registration system to check that your proposed name is available and reserve it. Have two or three options ready in case your first choice is taken or too similar to an existing name.
2. Fill in the registration form. Enter the owners' or directors' details, identification, the business address and the nature of the business. Companies also provide details of shareholders and share capital, and adopt articles of association.
3. Pay the fees. Generate a payment reference through the system and pay through a bank or mobile money, then submit the application.
4. Download your certificate. Once URSB approves the application, you can download the certificate of registration or incorporation.
What to do after registration
Register with the Uganda Revenue Authority. Get a TIN for the business, or use your personal TIN for a business name, and register for the taxes that apply to you. Good records from the start make filing easier.
Get a trading licence. Apply to your local authority, such as the Kampala Capital City Authority or your district, for a trading licence. Fees depend on the location and type of business.
Separate your money. Open a business bank account and a mobile money merchant number, so business and personal money stay separate. This helps you see whether the business is profitable and supports loan applications; our loan calculator shows what repayments would cost.
Keep company filings up to date. Companies must file an annual return with URSB every year, and must keep records of who ultimately owns and controls the company. Late filing can attract penalties.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to register a business name in Uganda?
Reservation is UGX 35,000 and registration UGX 55,000, according to URSB's published fees.
Can I register a company in Uganda online?
Yes. URSB's online business registration system handles name searches, registration and payments.
Do I need a TIN to run a business in Uganda?
Yes. You need a TIN from the Uganda Revenue Authority to file taxes and for many official dealings.
Sources
This article is general information, not financial advice.