How To Start A Business in Botswana

---

How to Start a Business in Botswana - Step by Step Guidelines

Starting a business in Botswana is straightforward and investor-friendly. The country offers a digital platform and physical one-stop service centers to assist both locals and foreign investors. Below is a step-by-step guide to help navigate the business setup process.

Step 1: Choose a Business Structure

Decide on a legal form of your business. Common types include:

• Sole Proprietorship
• Partnership
• Private Company (Pty) Ltd – most popular
• Public Company (PLC)
• Branch of a Foreign Company

Step 2: Register the Business Name

Reserve a business name through the Companies and Intellectual Property Authority (CIPA) online portal.

• Estimated Cost: BWP 20–100
• Estimated Time: 1–2 working days

Step 3: Register the Company

Register your business with CIPA via the Online Business Registration System. You will need:

• Company name reservation confirmation
• Details of shareholders and directors
• Registered office address
• Company constitution (optional)

Fees: Approx. BWP 360 for company registration

Timeline: 2–5 working days

Step 4: Obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN)

Register with the Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS) for tax purposes and get your TIN.

Step 5: Open a Corporate Bank Account

Open a business bank account in Botswana. Banks may require your certificate of incorporation, company documents, and proof of address for the business.

Step 6: Apply for a Trade or Business License

Apply for an appropriate trade or business license from the local authorities or the Botswana Investment and Trade Centre (BITC) depending on the nature of your business.

• Licenses vary by sector (retail, manufacturing, tourism, etc.)
• Fees: BWP 100 – 1,000+ depending on business type

Step 7: Register for Social Security and PAYE

If you plan to employ staff, register for Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) and the Botswana Public Officers Pension Fund (BPOPF) if applicable.

Step 8: Apply for Sector-Specific Permits (If Required)

Certain sectors such as health, agriculture, and education may require additional permits from relevant ministries or regulatory bodies.

Step 9: For Foreign Investors – Apply for Investment Certificate (Optional but Beneficial)

Foreign investors can apply for an Investment Certificate through the BITC to gain incentives and fast-track support.

Estimated Total Costs and Duration

• Company Registration: BWP 360
• Business Name Reservation: BWP 20–100
• Trade License: BWP 100–1,000+
• Timeframe: 7–14 business days (can be faster if online)

Useful Resources

• CIPA – Business Registration and Name Reservation
• BURS – Tax Registration and TIN
• BITC – Trade and Investment Support
• Government of Botswana – General Public Services