Your comprehensive guide to starting a business in Rwanda
Rwanda has emerged as one of Africa's most business-friendly destinations, ranking 2nd in Africa for ease of doing business. This guide provides foreign entrepreneurs and investors with everything needed to establish and operate a business in Rwanda.
Why Rwanda?
6-Hour Registration
Register your company in just 6 hours through Rwanda's streamlined online portal - one of the fastest processes in the world.
Strategic Location
Gateway to East African Community (EAC) market of 300+ million people with preferential trade access across the continent.
Political Stability
Ranked as one of Africa's safest and most stable countries with strong governance, low corruption, and investor protection.
Choose Your Business Structure
Rwanda offers several business structures for foreign investors. Select the one that best fits your business goals and investment size.
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
Minimum Capital
No minimum capital requirement
Shareholders
1-50 shareholders
Liability
Limited to share capital
Best For:
Most common for foreign investors, SMEs, and startups
Tax Rate: 30% corporate income tax
Public Limited Company (PLC)
Minimum Capital
RWF 2,000,000 (~$1,500 USD)
Shareholders
Minimum 7 shareholders
Liability
Limited to share capital
Best For:
Large enterprises planning to go public
Tax Rate: 30% corporate income tax
Branch Office
Minimum Capital
No minimum capital
Shareholders
Parent company
Liability
Parent company liable
Best For:
Foreign companies testing the market
Tax Rate: 30% corporate income tax
Representative Office
Minimum Capital
No minimum capital
Shareholders
Parent company
Liability
Cannot conduct business activities
Best For:
Market research and liaison only
Tax Rate: Not applicable (no business activities)
Step-by-Step Registration Process
Follow this comprehensive guide to register your business in Rwanda. The entire process can be completed in as little as 2 weeks.
Company Name Reservation
1-2 days
RWF 2,000 (~$1.50 USD)
Reserve your company name through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) online portal.
Required Documents/Information:
Proposed company name (3 alternatives recommended)
Business activity description
Platform:
RDB Online Portal
Prepare Required Documents
3-5 days
Variable (notarization fees)
Gather and prepare all necessary documentation for company registration.
Required Documents/Information:
Articles of Association
Memorandum of Association
Passport copies of all shareholders/directors
Proof of registered office address
Shareholder resolution
Notarized documents (if required)
Platform:
Legal advisor or notary
Company Registration
6 hours (same day)
RWF 52,000 (~$40 USD) for LLC
Submit your application through the RDB online portal. Rwanda offers one of the fastest registration processes in Africa.
Required Documents/Information:
Completed registration form
Reserved company name certificate
Articles and Memorandum of Association
Identification documents
Proof of address
Platform:
RDB Online Portal
Tax Registration (TIN)
Automatic with company registration
Free
Tax Identification Number (TIN) is automatically issued upon company registration.
Required Documents/Information:
Company registration certificate
Platform:
Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA)
Social Security Registration (RSSB)
1-2 days
Free
Register with Rwanda Social Security Board for employee social security contributions.
Required Documents/Information:
Company registration certificate
TIN certificate
List of employees
Platform:
RSSB Online Portal
Business License
1-2 days
RWF 30,000 - 100,000 (~$23-$75 USD) depending on business type
Obtain trading license from the City of Kigali or respective district.
Required Documents/Information:
Company registration certificate
TIN certificate
Lease agreement or proof of premises
Platform:
Irembo Platform (online government services)
Work Permits (if applicable)
5-10 working days
USD $100 - $5,000 depending on permit type
Foreign nationals need work permits. Categories include investor, employee, and self-employed permits.
Required Documents/Information:
Valid passport
Employment contract or proof of investment
Company registration documents
Academic/professional qualifications
Medical certificate
Police clearance certificate
Platform:
Rwanda Directorate General of Immigration
Key Considerations for Foreign Investors
Essential information about operating a business in Rwanda, from taxation to employment regulations.
Investment Incentives
Banking & Finance
Employment & Labor
Taxation Overview
Important Notes
- Legal Advice:This guide offers a strong foundation, but to apply this information to your specific business needs and gain a competitive edge, we recommend reaching out to our specialized consultants for a personalized strategy session.
- Regulations:Business regulations and fees are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with official government sources.
- Sector-Specific:Some sectors (banking, insurance, telecommunications, mining) require additional licenses and regulatory approvals.
- Language:While English is an official language, having documents translated to Kinyarwanda or French may be helpful for certain processes.
Ready to start your business in Rwanda?
Our team specializes in helping foreign investors navigate the Rwanda business landscape. From company registration to ongoing compliance, we provide end-to-end support.