How to Register with BRELA| Jinsi ya kujisajili BRELA

How to Register with BRELA| Jinsi ya kujisajili BRELA, How to Register with BRELA,namna ya kujisajili na BLERA

Registering your business with the Business Registrations and Licensing Agency (BRELA) is a crucial process for anyone looking to establish a legal business entity in Tanzania. BRELA oversees the registration of companies, business names, patents, trademarks, and other intellectual properties. The registration process is now entirely online, facilitated by the BRELA Online Registration System (ORS), making it easier and more accessible for business owners. This article provides a detailed guide on how to register with BRELA, ensuring that your business is compliant with Tanzanian laws.

Why Register with BRELA?

Before delving into the registration process, it is important to understand the benefits of registering with BRELA:

Legal Recognition: Registration gives your business a legal identity, making it easier to engage in formal contracts, open business bank accounts, and access financial services.
Intellectual Property Protection: Registering with BRELA also allows you to protect your business’s name, logo, and other intellectual properties, ensuring that they are legally protected from unauthorized use.
Credibility: A registered business is more likely to gain the trust of customers, suppliers, and partners, as it is recognized by the government.
Compliance: Registration ensures that your business is compliant with Tanzanian laws, avoiding legal complications and penalties.

Step 1: Create an Online Account

The first step in registering with BRELA is to create an account on the BRELA Online Registration System (ORS).

Visit the BRELA Website: Go to the BRELA ORS portal at https://ors.brela.go.tz.
Sign Up: If you don’t already have an account, you need to sign up by providing your personal details. This includes your National Identification Number (NIN) for Tanzanian citizens or your passport number for foreign nationals.
Verification: Once your account is created, you will receive a verification email. Follow the instructions to verify your account and gain access to the ORS platform.

Step 2: Prepare the Necessary Documents

Depending on whether you are registering a business name or a company, you will need to prepare different sets of documents.

For Business Name Registration:
- Identification: A copy of your NIN or passport.
- Proof of Address: This could be a utility bill or lease agreement.
For Company Registration:
- Memorandum of Association: A legal document that defines the company’s structure and its relationship with shareholders.
- Articles of Association: This document outlines the rules for the company’s operations, including the duties and responsibilities of directors and shareholders.
- Declaration of Compliance (Form 14b): A document signed by the company founders and a legal professional, confirming that all legal requirements have been met.

These documents should be scanned and saved in a digital format ready for upload.

Step 3: Complete the Online Registration Forms

Once you have all your documents ready, the next step is to fill out the online registration forms on the ORS platform.

Login to ORS: Use your credentials to log in to the BRELA ORS system.
Choose the Type of Registration: Select whether you are registering a business name, a company, or any other entity that requires registration.
Enter Business Details: You will be required to provide detailed information about your business, including:
- Business Name: Ensure that the name is unique and complies with the naming rules set by BRELA.
- Physical Address: Provide the physical location of your business.
- Nature of Business: Describe the type of business you intend to carry out.
- Owner/Directors Information: Enter details about the owners or directors, including their identification numbers and contact information.
Review and Confirm: Before submitting, review all the information carefully to ensure accuracy. Any errors could delay the registration process.

Step 4: Upload the Required Documents

After filling out the forms, you will need to upload the prepared documents.

Scan and Upload: Ensure that the documents are clearly scanned and in the correct format (PDF, JPEG, or PNG). Upload them to the respective sections on the ORS platform.
Check Completeness: Verify that all required documents have been uploaded. Missing documents could result in the rejection of your application.

Step 5: Make the Payment

Once your forms and documents are submitted, you will need to pay the registration fees.

Payment Methods: BRELA offers several payment options including mobile money (M-Pesa, Tigo Pesa), bank transfers, and direct bank deposits. Choose the method that is most convenient for you.
Control Number: After submitting your registration application, BRELA will generate a control number that you will use to make the payment. This number is crucial for tracking your payment.
Fee Structure: The fees vary depending on the type of registration. For example, registering a business name costs TZS 15,000 for the application and an additional TZS 5,000 annually for maintenance.

Step 6: Wait for Confirmation

Once the payment is made, BRELA will begin processing your application.

Processing Time: The typical processing time is up to 8 working hours. However, this could be longer if there are issues with your application or if additional information is required.
Email Notification: You will receive an email notification once your application has been reviewed. If approved, the email will include instructions on how to download your registration certificate. If your application is rejected, the email will outline the reasons and the steps you need to take to correct the issues.

Step 7: Download Your Registration Certificate

If your application is approved, you can download your registration certificate directly from the ORS platform.

Accessing the Certificate: Log in to the ORS platform, navigate to your dashboard, and download your certificate. This document serves as official proof of your business’s registration.
Keep a Copy: Ensure that you keep both a digital and a printed copy of your certificate in a safe place. You may need to present it for various business transactions, such as opening a bank account or applying for licenses.

Final Thoughts

Registering with BRELA is just the beginning. To keep your business in good standing, you need to maintain compliance with all ongoing requirements:

Annual Fees: Pay your annual maintenance fees on time to avoid penalties or deregistration.
Update Information: If there are any changes to your business, such as a change in address, ownership, or directors, you must update this information with BRELA through the ORS platform.
Stay Informed: Regularly check the BRELA website and your ORS account for updates and notifications to ensure you are aware of any changes in the registration process or legal requirements.

Conclusion

Registering with BRELA is a critical step for any business operating in Tanzania. It not only grants your business legal recognition but also opens up opportunities for growth and formal engagement in the marketplace. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully navigate the registration process and lay a solid foundation for your business. Remember, compliance is key to maintaining your registration and ensuring that your business remains in good legal standing. Stay proactive, stay compliant, and your business will thrive in Tanzania’s growing economy.