Zimbabwe Business Registration Checklist

ZIMBABWE BUSINESS REGISTRATION CHECKLIST

Complete Guide for New Business Registration – 2025

1. Business Name Registration

Conduct name search at Deeds Registry
– Check for name availability (3 options recommended)
– Verify name meets naming guidelines
Submit BN1 Form (Name Reservation)
Pay name reservation fee (ZWG 1,500)
Processing Time: 2-3 working days for name reservation
Validity: Reserved name valid for 30 days (can be extended)

2. Business Structure Selection

Business Type Registration Requirements
Sole Proprietor BN5 Form, ID Copy, Proof of Address
Private Company CR1 Form, CR6, CR14, Memorandum
Partnership BN9 Form, Partnership Agreement

3. Company Registration Documents

Completed CR1 Form (Incorporation)
CR6 (List of Directors)
CR14 (Registered Office)
Memorandum & Articles of Association
ID Copies for all directors/shareholders
Proof of Registered Office Address

4. Tax Registration

Register with ZIMRA for Income Tax
– Complete ITF1 Form
– Submit within 30 days of registration
VAT Registration (if applicable)
PAYE Registration (if employing staff)
Import/Export License (if applicable)

5. Sector-Specific Licenses

Health Services: MCAZ Registration
Financial Services: RBZ Approval
Tourism: ZTA License
Mining: Mining Commissioner Certificate
Manufacturing: Standards Association Certification

6. Local Authority Requirements

Municipal Business License
– Submit building plans (if applicable)
– Health inspection (for food businesses)
Fire Department Certificate
Environmental Impact Assessment (if required)

7. Banking & Financial Setup

Open business bank account
– Certificate of Incorporation required
– CR6 and CR14 required
Register for ZIMSWITCH (if accepting cards)
Set up accounting system

8. Post-Registration Compliance

Display company name at business premises
Register with NEC (if employing staff)
Workmen’s Compensation Insurance
Prepare company seal (optional)
First board meeting within 30 days

Key Registration Offices

Deeds Registry: Samora Machel Ave, Harare | +263 242 793 771

ZIMRA: Kwame Nkrumah Ave | +263 242 758 891

Registrar of Companies: 1st Floor, Block C, Century House | +263 242 774 731

Disclaimer: Requirements may vary based on business type and location. Fees subject to change.

Checklist Version: 2025.1 | Last Updated:

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