Cost of Starting a Business in Zambia
Starting a business in Zambia is straightforward. Register with PACRA, get a TPIN from ZRA, and obtain your local council trading license.
Company Registration (PACRA)
Private company limited by shares
ZMK 525 – 750
2-5 business days
Business Name Registration
Sole proprietorship or partnership
ZMK 150 – 250
1-2 business days
Tax Registration (ZRA)
TPIN registration required for all businesses
Free
1-3 business days
Local Council Trading License
Varies by council and business type
ZMK 500 – 3,000
5-10 business days
NAPSA Registration
Social security — mandatory for employers
Free
1-2 business days
Business Bank Account
Minimum deposit varies by bank
ZMK 500 – 2,000
Same day
Office Rent (Lusaka CBD)
Per room/office — location dependent
ZMK 3,000 – 15,000/mo
Variable
Business Insurance (Basic)
Public liability + property
ZMK 2,000 – 8,000/yr
Annual premium
Steps to Register a Company
- Reserve a company name at PACRA (ZMK 50)
- Register the company — file articles and Form 3 (ZMK 525)
- Get TPIN from Zambia Revenue Authority (free)
- Register for NAPSA if you will have employees (free)
- Obtain trading license from local council (ZMK 500+)
- Open a business bank account (ZMK 500+ minimum deposit)