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Starting a Company in Uganda. Are you looking to register a company in Uganda? Congratulations! We offer expert advice and support to both local and foreign investors across various industries. Our mission is to help you start and grow your business effectively.

Company registration in Uganda involves formally establishing a legal entity to conduct business. This process grants your company legal recognition, protection, and access to numerous opportunities and benefits in the country.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about company registration in Uganda. We’ll walk you through the URSB Name Search, the process for registering a foreign company, and the different types of companies you can establish. You’ll also learn about registration costs and corporate tax regulations. Additionally, we’ll assist you with obtaining the necessary permits, navigating tax registration, opening a bank account, and securing your certificate of incorporation.

Whether you’re a local entrepreneur or an international investor, this step-by-step guide will ensure a smooth registration process, setting a strong foundation for your company’s success in Uganda.

Steps for Registering a Company with the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB)

1. Create a URSB Profile: Start by creating an account on the URSB platform using your ID number or passport number. This is the official online system for new company registrations in Uganda.
2. Conduct a Name Reservation: Submit at least three proposed company names and make a payment to reserve your preferred name. Name reservation typically takes up to 3 days.
3. Add Company Particulars: Provide details such as the company’s physical address, proposed share capital, and the shareholders.
4. Enter Memorandum and Articles of Association: Choose whether to adopt the standard Memorandum and Articles of Association provided by URSB or upload your own customized version.
5. Enter Directors’ Details: Input the directors’ full names, phone numbers, ID or passport numbers, email addresses, and residential addresses.
6. Enter Official Company Contacts: Provide the company’s official email address and phone number.
7. Download, Sign, and Upload Registration Forms: Sign the registration forms clearly and upload them back to the URSB platform.
8. Make Payment and Submit Application: Pay the required statutory fees and submit your application. If everything is in order, the company will be approved within approximately 7 days.

After registration, additional steps are required to fully establish your company in Uganda.

Steps for Registering a Company with the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB)

1. Create a URSB Profile: Start by creating an account on the URSB platform using your ID number or passport number. This is the official online system for new company registrations in Uganda.
2. Conduct a Name Reservation: Submit at least three proposed company names and make a payment to reserve your preferred name. Name reservation typically takes up to 3 days.
3. Add Company Particulars: Provide details such as the company’s physical address, proposed share capital, and the shareholders.
4. Enter Memorandum and Articles of Association: Choose whether to adopt the standard Memorandum and Articles of Association provided by URSB or upload your own customized version.
5. Enter Directors’ Details: Input the directors’ full names, phone numbers, ID or passport numbers, email addresses, and residential addresses.
6. Enter Official Company Contacts: Provide the company’s official email address and phone number.
7. Download, Sign, and Upload Registration Forms: Sign the registration forms clearly and upload them back to the URSB platform.
8. Make Payment and Submit Application: Pay the required statutory fees and submit your application. If everything is in order, the company will be approved within approximately 7 days.

After registration, additional steps are required to fully establish your company in Uganda.

Requirements for Registering a Company in Uganda

Before registering a company in Uganda, you need to meet the following requirements:

1. Company Names: Provide three preferred names for your proposed company.
2. Business Description: Describe the activities and nature of your business or company.
3. Identification Documents: Submit copies of the travel passports of all directors and shareholders. Note that a Limited Liability Company (LLC) must have at least two shareholders.
4. Photographs: Provide passport-sized photographs of all directors and shareholders.
5. Contact Information: Include postal and physical addresses, email addresses, telephone numbers, and occupations of all shareholders and directors.
6. Share Apportionment: Specify the percentage of shares allocated to each shareholder.

For over a decade, we have streamlined the company registration process for both local and foreign investors. Trust us to make your company registration in Uganda seamless and efficient.

Types of Companies in Uganda

In Uganda, companies are categorized into the following types:

1. Sole Proprietorship: The simplest form of business where an individual operates alone without a formal legal structure. The owner is personally responsible for all business liabilities and debts.
2. Partnership: Involves two or more people sharing ownership of a business. Partnerships can be:
   • General Partnerships: All partners share equal responsibility for the business.
   • Limited Partnerships: At least one general partner manages day-to-day operations, while one or more limited partners contribute capital but have a limited role in management.
3. Limited Liability Company (LLC): Combines the benefits of a corporation with the flexibility of a partnership. Owners have limited liability, meaning they are only responsible for their investment in the business. LLCs do not pay corporate taxes; profits and losses pass directly to the owners for tax purposes.
4. Public Limited Company (PLC): Suitable for businesses looking to raise funds from the public by issuing shares. PLCs have shares traded on a stock exchange and must have at least seven shareholders and a board of directors. Owners have limited liability.
5. Non-Profit Company: Designed for organizations that do not aim to make a profit. These entities are often established for charitable or social causes, and any profits must be reinvested into the organization.

Note: At Webtech Uganda, we simplify the process of registering any type of company in Uganda. Contact us for a seamless registration experience.

Company Registration Fees in Uganda

1. Local Companies: For a company with a share capital of up to UGX 5 million, the registration fee is a minimum of $20. If the share capital exceeds UGX 5 million, the registration fee is 1% of the share capital, plus a stamp duty of 0.5% of the share capital.
2. Foreign Companies: The fees for registering a foreign company in Uganda may vary based on specific requirements and share capital, so it is advisable to check the URSB guidelines for precise information.

Corporate Taxation in Uganda

Registered companies in Uganda are subject to the following taxes:

• Corporate Tax: 30%
• Value Added Tax (VAT): 18%
• Payroll Taxes: Graduated scale ranging from 10% to 40%
• Withholding Taxes: Between 6% and 20%

Benefits of Registering a Company in Uganda

Registering a company in Uganda provides several advantages:

1. Legal Recognition: Legal registration protects your brand and assets, providing formal acknowledgment of your business.
2. Access to Funding: Registered companies are eligible for loans and investment opportunities from financial institutions and investors.
3. Reduced Personal Liability: Incorporation limits your personal liability for business debts and obligations by establishing your company as a separate legal entity.
4. Credibility: A registered company enhances trust with customers, suppliers, and partners, showcasing your commitment to your business.
5. Tax Benefits: Registered companies may qualify for various tax incentives, potentially reducing your tax liability and improving profitability.
6. Expansion Opportunities: Registration opens doors to both local and regional markets, facilitating growth and business development.

Why You Need a Website for Your Business

In today’s digital age, having a website is crucial for the success of any business. Here’s why:

1. Online Presence and Credibility: A website establishes your business’s online presence and boosts credibility. Customers often research companies online before making purchasing decisions. A well-designed, professional website reassures them that your business is legitimate and trustworthy.
2. 24/7 Accessibility: Unlike physical stores, a website operates around the clock. This allows potential customers to learn about your products or services, make inquiries, or even make purchases at any time, increasing your reach and convenience for customers.
3. Marketing and SEO: A website enhances your marketing efforts through search engine optimization (SEO). By optimizing your site with relevant keywords, you can improve your visibility on search engines like Google, attracting more traffic and potential customers.
4. Showcase Products and Services: Your website acts as a dynamic portfolio where you can showcase your products or services, including detailed descriptions, images, and pricing. This not only helps in informing customers but also in differentiating your business from competitors.
5. Customer Engagement: Websites offer various tools for engaging with customers, such as contact forms, live chat, and newsletters. These features help in building a relationship with your audience, addressing their concerns promptly, and encouraging repeat business.
6. Competitive Advantage: In a competitive market, having a website gives you an edge over businesses without one. It allows you to stand out, present your unique value proposition, and attract a broader audience.
7. Analytics and Insights: Websites provide valuable data through analytics tools, helping you understand customer behavior, track website performance, and make informed business decisions based on real-time data.

In summary, a website is an essential tool for building credibility, expanding your reach, and engaging with customers. It enhances your marketing efforts, supports your business growth, and provides insights to drive your business strategy.

You need a website?

Talk to us:

Tel: +256 789 210 067 / 200 955 001

Email: webtechug@gmail.com