Starting a business in Botswana is a relatively straightforward process, supported by a stable economy, investor-friendly policies, and an efficient regulatory environment. Whether you’re a local entrepreneur or a foreign investor, understanding the steps involved in business registration is key to launching a compliant and successful enterprise. This 2025 guide breaks down the essential procedures for registering a business in Botswana.
Step 1: Choose a Business Structure
Botswana offers several types of business entities, including:
- Sole Proprietorship
- Partnership
- Private Company (Pty Ltd)
- Public Company (Ltd)
- Close Company (no longer available for new registration)
- Foreign Company Branch
The most common and recommended structure for most small to medium businesses is the Private Company (Pty Ltd), which allows for up to 25 shareholders.
Step 2: Reserve a Company Name
The first step in registering your business is name reservation through the Companies and Intellectual Property Authority (CIPA) online portal.
- Visit: www.cipa.co.bw
- Create an account
- Search for your preferred company name
- Submit the reservation request
- Pay the fee (currently BWP 20)
If approved, the name is reserved for 30 days, during which you must complete the business registration.
Step 3: Register the Company with CIPA
Once your name is reserved, you can proceed to register your company online:
- Upload scanned copies of directors’ and shareholders’ identification documents (Omang for citizens, passports for foreigners)
- Provide the company’s physical and postal address
- Specify shareholding structure and directors’ roles
- Complete the declaration of compliance
As of 2025, all company registrations in Botswana are done exclusively online via the CIPA portal.
Step 4: Obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN)
After registering with CIPA, you need to register your business with the Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS).
- Visit the nearest BURS office or register online
- Provide your CIPA documents, director IDs, and proof of address
- You will be issued a TIN, which is required for tax compliance and opening a business bank account
Step 5: Open a Business Bank Account
To open a corporate bank account in Botswana, visit a local bank with the following:
- Certificate of Incorporation from CIPA
- Memorandum & Articles of Association
- Directors’ and shareholders’ IDs
- Tax Identification Number (TIN)
- Proof of business address
Most banks in Botswana require that directors be physically present to sign the necessary forms.
Step 6: Register for Other Licenses (If Applicable)
Depending on your business sector, you may need additional permits or licenses. For example:
- Tourism license from the Department of Tourism
- Trading license from the local council
- Health and safety compliance for food-related businesses
- Import/export license from the Ministry of Trade
Always check with the relevant authority to ensure full compliance with industry regulations.
Step 7: Register for the Value Added Tax (VAT) (if applicable)
If your business expects an annual turnover above BWP 1 million, you must register for VAT with BURS. Voluntary VAT registration is also allowed for businesses under the threshold.
Additional Considerations for Foreign Investors
Foreigners can own 100% of a business in Botswana, except in specific sectors reserved for citizens. These include small-scale retail, hair salons, and certain transportation services. Foreign-owned companies may also need to:
- Apply for an Investment Permit through the Ministry of Trade
- Obtain work and residence permits for foreign directors or employees
- Partner with a local citizen in sectors that promote citizen economic empowerment
Registering a business in Botswana is a transparent and efficient process thanks to the fully digitalized CIPA platform and supportive government institutions. With the right structure, documentation, and compliance, entrepreneurs can swiftly establish their ventures and tap into Botswana’s growing economy. Whether you’re starting a mobile safari company in the Okavango or launching a tech startup in Gaborone, Botswana provides a welcoming environment for business growth in 2025 and beyond.
