How To Start A Business in Togo

How to Start a Business in Togo - Step by Step Guide

Starting a business in Togo is a straightforward process for both local and foreign investors. Below is a detailed step-by-step guide that includes the necessary procedures, fees, taxes, and expected processing times.

Step-by-Step Guide for Locals

1. Choose Your Business Structure: You can opt for a Sole Proprietorship, Limited Liability Company (SARL), or Joint Stock Company (SA).
2. Register Your Business: The first step is registering your business with the Togolese Business Registration and Trade Office (Centre de Formalités des Entreprises - CFE).
   Centre de Formalités des Entreprises (CFE)
   Fees: TZS 50,000 to TZS 200,000 (approximately USD 22 to USD 90) depending on the business type.
3. Obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN): Obtain a TIN from the Togolese Revenue Office (Direction Générale des Impôts).
   Togolese Revenue Office
   Fees: Free.
4. Register for VAT: If your business’s annual turnover exceeds CFA 50 million, you are required to register for VAT.
   Fees: Free, but you will need to file monthly VAT returns.
5. Register with the National Social Security Fund (CNSS): If you have employees, you must register with the National Social Security Fund.
   National Social Security Fund (CNSS)
   Fees: Employer contribution: 5.8%, Employee contribution: 3.4%.
6. Open a Business Bank Account: After registering your business, open a business account with any local bank.
   Fees: Initial deposit fees range from TZS 50,000 to TZS 200,000 (approximately USD 22 to USD 90).
7. Obtain Required Permits and Licenses: Depending on your business activities, you may need to obtain special permits or licenses.
   Fees: Varies depending on the type of business.

Step-by-Step Guide for Foreign Investors

1. Choose Your Business Structure: Foreign investors may set up a Limited Liability Company (SARL), a Joint Stock Company (SA), or a representative office.
2. Register Your Business: Foreign investors must register their business with the Centre de Formalités des Entreprises (CFE).
   Centre de Formalités des Entreprises (CFE)
   Fees: Registration fees for an LLC or SA: CFA 50,000 to CFA 200,000 (approximately USD 22 to USD 90).
3. Obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN): Apply for a TIN from the Togolese Revenue Office.
   Togolese Revenue Office
   Fees: Free.
4. Register for VAT: If your business has an annual turnover greater than CFA 50 million, register for VAT with the Togolese Revenue Office.
   Fees: Free, but monthly VAT returns are required.
5. Register with the National Social Security Fund (CNSS): If you employ staff, foreign businesses must register with CNSS.
   National Social Security Fund (CNSS)
   Fees: Employer contribution: 5.8%, Employee contribution: 3.4%.
6. Apply for a Work Permit: Foreigners wishing to work in Togo must apply for a work permit through the Ministry of Labour.
   Ministry of Labour, Togo
   Fees: TZS 50,000 to TZS 150,000 (approximately USD 22 to USD 65).
7. Open a Business Bank Account: Foreign investors must open a business bank account in a local bank.
   Fees: Initial deposit ranges from TZS 50,000 to TZS 200,000 (approximately USD 22 to USD 90).
8. Obtain Permits and Licenses: Foreign investors may need to apply for additional permits and licenses depending on the business type.
   Fees: Varies depending on the business type.

Estimated Duration

• For Locals: 1-2 weeks
• For Foreign Investors: 3-4 weeks (including obtaining work permits)

Useful Resources

• Centre de Formalités des Entreprises (CFE)
• Togolese Revenue Office (DGI)
• National Social Security Fund (CNSS)
• Ministry of Labour, Togo