How to Register a Company Online in Malawi: Step-by-Step Guide
How to Register a Company Online in Malawi
Registering a company in Malawi has become much simpler with the Malawi Business Registration System (MBRS). Whether you’re a local entrepreneur or a foreign investor, this guide walks you through the online company registration process, fees, required documents, tax obligations, and post-registration steps.
Process of Online Company Registration in Malawi
Company registration in Malawi is currently done entirely online through the MBRS portal. Here’s how to get started:
Step 1: Create an Account
Visit the official MBRS website: https://mbrs.gov.mw
Click on “CREATE ACCOUNT”
Choose between “Citizen” (requires National ID) or “Non-Citizen” (requires Passport number)
Complete the registration form with your personal details
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
Before starting the registration process, make sure you have:
A digital copy of your ID (National ID or Passport)
Access to a printer
Access to a scanner
Company details including:
Proposed company name
Details of directors
Details of shareholders
Business activities
Step 3: Company Incorporation
Log in to your MBRS account
Select “Company Incorporation” from the services menu
Fill in all required fields in the application form
The system will auto-generate the following documents as PDFs:
Consent and Certificate of Directors
Consent of Shareholders
Memorandum of Association
Articles of Association
Print these documents, sign them, and scan them
Upload the signed documents back to the system
Step 4: Name Reservation
If you’re not ready to register immediately, you can reserve your company name to prevent others from using it. Note that names containing “MALAWI” require approval from the Office of President and Cabinet.
Step 5: Payment and Certification
After completing the application, you’ll receive an Application Number
Take this number to FDH Bank at the registration office
Pay the registration fee
Once payment is processed, your status will change to “Registered”
Download your Certificate of Incorporation
The entire registration process typically takes about 36 hours to complete.
Registration Fees
The following fees apply for business registration in Malawi (effective from August 13, 2020):
Business Type
Fee
Sole Proprietorship
MK10,000
Partnership
MK10,000
Limited Company
MK75,000
Trustees
MK50,000
Foreign Companies
MK250,000
Renewal (before 30 days from expiry)
MK10,000
Renewal (after 30 days from expiry)
MK30,000
Tax Obligations
After company registration, you’ll need to register for various taxes:
1. Value Added Tax (VAT)
Standard rate: 16.5%
Applies to most goods and services
Some items are exempt or zero-rated
2. Pay As You Earn (PAYE)
Employers must deduct income tax from employee earnings
Rates vary based on income brackets
Must be remitted to Malawi Revenue Authority
3. Withholding Tax
An advance payment of income tax deducted from certain payments
The payer is responsible for withholding and remitting to MRA
Post Registration Steps
Once your company is registered:
Open a business bank account
Register with the Malawi Revenue Authority for tax purposes
Apply for any necessary licenses or permits specific to your industry
Consider registering for TPIN (Tax Payer Identification Number)
For more detailed information on tax obligations and business operations in Malawi, visit the Malawi Revenue Authority website.
Frequently Asked Questions on How to Register a Company Online in Malawi
What is the registration process?
Log in to the MBRS account.
Select “Company Incorporation.”
Fill in the form and auto-generate PDF documents.
Print, sign, scan, and upload the documents.
Pay at FDH Bank.
How long does it take to register?
The process typically takes about 36 hours.
What are the fees for registration?
The registration fee for a Limited Company is approximately MK75,000.
How do I check if a company name is available?
You can check availability through the MBRS system before starting the registration. Names containing “Malawi” require special approval from the Office of President and Cabinet.
What documents are required?
The system generates the necessary documentation, including Consent of Directors, Consent of Shareholders, Memorandum of Association, and Articles of Association.
Is it mandatory to use an agent?
While it is not mandatory, engaging a qualified agent or lawyer familiar with Malawian law is recommended to ensure all documentation is accurate, according
Conclusion
Online company registration in Malawi is conducted through the Malawi Business Registry System (MBRS), managed by the Registrar General’s Department. The process is fully digital, allowing users to create an account, fill forms, pay fees instantly. Should you need any assistance, do not hesitate to contact our team.
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