How to Register a Company in Zambia in 2026
The seven registrations most new companies in Zambia need, in order, and which regulator handles each one.
Rayema Enterprise Compliance Hub
Start with the right order
Most delays we see happen when a business tries to register with ZRA, NAPSA or NHIMA before PACRA incorporation is complete - those bodies need your Certificate of Incorporation and TPIN first. Working through the steps in order avoids repeat trips and rejected applications.
1. Reserve your business name
Search and reserve your proposed company name with PACRA before incorporation.
2. Incorporate with PACRA
File your incorporation documents (Ltd, sole proprietorship, or partnership) and receive your Certificate of Incorporation.
3. Register for tax with ZRA
Obtain your TPIN and register for the tax types relevant to your business (VAT/turnover tax, PAYE, income tax).
4. Register with NAPSA and NHIMA
Enrol as an employer for pension and national health insurance contributions once you have staff.
5. Register with the Workers' Compensation Fund
Cover your employees against workplace injury as required by law.
6. Sector licensing (if applicable)
Register with ZPPA if you intend to supply government, or obtain any sector-specific licence your industry requires.
7. Stay compliant
File annual returns with PACRA and keep tax, NAPSA, NHIMA and Workers' Compensation contributions up to date to avoid penalties.
Who regulates what
- • PACRA (Patents and Companies Registration Agency) - Business registration, company incorporation, and intellectual property (patents, trademarks, business names). Typical timeline: 3-5 working days for incorporation.
- • ZRA (Zambia Revenue Authority) - Tax administration - income tax, VAT/turnover tax, PAYE, and customs duty. Typical timeline: 1-2 working days for TPIN.
- • NAPSA (National Pension Scheme Authority) - Mandatory pension contributions for employees. Typical timeline: 1-2 working days.
- • NHIMA (National Health Insurance Management Authority) - National health insurance scheme contributions. Typical timeline: 1-2 working days.
- • ZPPA (Zambia Public Procurement Authority) - Supplier registration required to bid on government tenders and contracts. Typical timeline: 5-10 working days.
- • Workers' Compensation Fund (Workers' Compensation Fund Control Board) - Compensation cover for employees injured or disabled in the course of employment. Typical timeline: 3-5 working days.
Getting help
Rayema Enterprise handles this full sequence end to end for new and existing businesses - see our Business Registration & Compliance service for current timelines, or get in touch for a free consultation on exactly which registrations your business needs.