ManyaGuide How to register a business or company in Uganda (URSB fees 2026)
Business name: UGX 35,000 (name) + 55,000 (registration) online at ursb.go.ug. Small company: 105,000 + stamp duty.
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The Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) registers business names and companies. Everything can be done online through the Online Business Registration System (OBRS) at ursb.go.ug.
Business name or company: which one do you need?
| Business name | Private limited company | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Sole traders, small shops, freelancers | Growing businesses, partners, tenders |
| Legal identity | You and the business are the same | Company is separate from owners |
| Liability | You are personally liable for debts | Owners' liability is limited |
| Cost | Low (about UGX 90,000 in total) | Higher (about UGX 263,000–500,000) |
URSB registration fees
| Item | Fee (UGX) |
|---|---|
| Name search / reservation | 35,000 |
| Business name registration | 55,000 |
| Company registration (share capital up to UGX 5m) | 105,000 |
| Company registration (share capital above UGX 5m) | 1% of share capital |
| Stamp duty on share capital (paid to URA) | 35,000 + 0.5% of capital above UGX 5m |
Source: URSB fee schedule. Payment is by PRN through a bank or mobile money.
How to register a business name
- Create an account on the URSB OBRS portal.
- Search and reserve your name (UGX 35,000). Choose a name that is not similar to an existing business.
- Fill in the business name registration form with owner details (NIN required).
- Generate a PRN and pay UGX 55,000.
- Download your certificate once approved.
How to register a private limited company
- Reserve the company name on OBRS.
- Prepare the Memorandum and Articles of Association, details of directors and shareholders and the registered office address.
- Fill in the incorporation forms online (including the statement of particulars).
- Pay registration fees and stamp duty via PRN.
- Download your Certificate of Incorporation.
- Next: register for a TIN with URA and get a trading licence from your local authority.
Filing annual returns
Companies must file annual returns with URSB within 42 days after the AGM. Late filing attracts fines, and companies that do not file for years can be struck off the register. Read: How to file annual returns with URSB.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to register a business name in Uganda?
About UGX 90,000: UGX 35,000 for name reservation plus UGX 55,000 for registration.
Can I register a company online in Uganda?
Yes, through URSB's Online Business Registration System. You pay with a PRN and download the certificate.
Do I need a lawyer to register a company?
No, but a lawyer or company secretary can help draft the Articles and file correctly.
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