Comprehensive Guide to URSB Services and Their Costs in Uganda

The Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) is a government agency that provides various registration services for businesses, legal entities, and other organizational structures. This guide, designed to empower you with a comprehensive understanding of the services URSB offers and their associated costs, underscores the importance of your role in Uganda’s business landscape.

This knowledge is beneficial and crucial, as it equips you to navigate the registration process effectively, make informed decisions, and manage your business efficiently in Uganda.

URSB Services Overview

URSB offers various services, including business registration, legal document registration, charge registration, and continuous filing. These services are not generic but are tailored to the specific needs of different entities and clients.

In this guide, we will delve into the services provided under each category and shed light on the respective costs, helping you to identify the most relevant services for your business. This tailored approach ensures that your needs are catered to, making you feel valued and important.

List of Services

Below is a detailed list of the services offered by URSB, along with brief notes and the associated costs for each service:

Understanding the services and their costs URSB provides is essential for effectively managing your business registration and compliance needs. This guide aims to empower you to make informed decisions and streamline your business operations in Uganda by simplifying the process and ensuring you have all the information required.

What is the cost of Data Updates for all businesses in Uganda?

• The cost of Data Updates for all businesses in Uganda is free.

What is the cost of Name Reservation/Business Name Registration fees in Uganda?

Name Reservation: If you’re considering a specific business name, you can reserve it with the URSB for a fee of UGX 35,000. This protects your chosen name for a limited period, allowing you to finalize incorporation or registration.

Business Name Registration: Once you’re ready to operate under your chosen name, you’ll need to register it with the URSB formally. This process also costs UGX 35,000.

What is the cost of a Change of Particulars for a Business Name in Uganda?

Should your business address, directors, or other vital details change, you must update your registration with the URSB. This process incurs a fee of UGX 35,000 to reflect the updated information in the official records.

What is the cost of Search Fees for a Business Name in Uganda?

Search Fees: Searching to see if a desired business name is available costs UGX 35,000. This helps avoid conflicts with existing registered names.

Certification Fees: There are two relevant certification fees:

• Certification of Particulars: Obtaining a certified copy of your business registration details carries a fee of UGX 35,000. This can be useful for official purposes.
• Certification of Registration: A certified copy of your business name registration certificate costs UGX 35,000. This may be required by some business partners or for specific transactions.

What is the cost of Certification fees for Particulars of a Business Name in Uganda?

Certification fees for Particulars of a Business Name in Uganda cost UGX 35,000. This fee covers the processing and certification of your business name registration with the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB).

What is the cost of Certification fees for a Certificate of Registration for a Business Name in Uganda?

The certification fee for a Certificate of Registration for a Business Name in Uganda is UGX 35,000. This fee is payable to the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) after the business name registration process is completed.

What are the fees for cancellation of an entry for a business name in Uganda?

To cancel a business name entry in Uganda, you will need to pay a fee of UGX 35,000. This fee is charged by the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), the government agency responsible for business registration.

Here’s a breakdown of the process and the relevant fee:

• Process: You must apply with the URSB to cancel your business name registration.
• Fee: The fee for cancelling a business name registration is UGX 35,000. This fee covers the administrative costs associated with processing your cancellation request.

What is the cost of Fees for a Change of Address for a Business Name in Uganda?

The fee to register a Notice of Change of Particulars with the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) is UGX 35,000. This covers the administrative costs of processing the update to their records.

What is the cost of Rectification Fees of a Register for a Business Name in Uganda?

The Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) charges a general fee of UGX 35,000 for various business registration form applications, which might apply to rectifying the register.

What is the Fee cost for a Notice of Cessation for a Business Name in Uganda?

The Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) charges a fee of UGX 35,000 to file a Notice of Cessation for a Business Name. This fee covers the processing and registration of your cessation notice with the URSB.

What is the cost of Name Reservation for Companies in Uganda?

The cost of Name Reservation for Companies in Uganda is UGX. 35,000. This fee covers the administrative process of checking the availability of your proposed company name against the URSB’s register of existing businesses and trademarks.

What is the cost of Registration fees for a Company with a Share Capital of 1m – 5m in Uganda?

Registration Fees for Companies with Share Capital (UGX 1 million – 5 million)

The Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) levies a fixed fee of UGX 105,000 for companies registering with a share capital within this range. This fee covers the core registration process with the URSB.

Important to Consider

It’s important to note that this UGX 105,000 fee only represents a part of the overall cost of business registration in Uganda. Here are some additional factors to consider:

• Stamp Duty: This applies to new companies with a share capital exceeding UGX 5 million. The stamp duty is calculated at 0.5% of the share capital.
• Professional Fees: If you engage a lawyer or other professional to assist with the registration process, additional fees will be associated with their services.
• Other Potential Fees: Depending on your business activities, you might require additional licenses or permits, which could incur further fees.

What is the cost of registration fees for a company with a share capital of more than 6 million in Uganda?

Registration Fee Calculation for Companies with Share Capital over 6 million UGX

In Uganda, the registration fee for companies is determined by the company’s declared share capital. For companies with a share capital more significant than 6 million UGX, the registration fee is calculated as 1.5% of the total share capital.

Here’s a breakdown of the fee structure:

• Share Capital Threshold: More than 6,000,000 UGX
• Registration Fee Rate: 1.5%

For instance, if your company’s share capital is 10,000,000 UGX, the registration fee would be:

Registration Fee = Share Capital * Registration Fee Rate

Registration Fee = 10,000,000 UGX * 1.5%

Registration Fee = 150,000 UGX

What is the cost of Fixed Stamp Duty for Companies in Uganda?

The Fixed Stamp Duty is a mandatory fee levied by the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) on all companies registering in the country. It’s a flat fee in Uganda at UGX. 35,000.

What is the cost of Stamp Duty (Variable) for Companies in Uganda?

In Uganda, companies are subject to a variable rate of Stamp Duty on their share capital. This tax applies specifically to the portion of a company’s share capital that exceeds UGX 5,000,000 (five million Ugandan shillings).

Here’s a breakdown of the Stamp Duty (Variable) for companies in Uganda:

• Rate: 0.5%
• Base: Share capital exceeding UGX 5,000,000

Calculation of Stamp Duty

The amount of Stamp Duty payable is calculated by multiplying the applicable rate (0.5%) by the amount of share capital that surpasses the threshold (UGX 5,000,000).

For instance, consider a company with a share capital of UGX 10,000,000. In this scenario:

• Share capital exceeding the threshold (UGX 5,000,000) = UGX 10,000,000 – UGX 5,000,000 = UGX 5,000,000
• Stamp Duty = 0.5% * UGX 5,000,000 = UGX 25,000

Therefore, the company would be liable to pay UGX 25,000 as Stamp Duty.

What is the registration fee for a company without share capital in Uganda?

It’s important to note that this UGX 105,000 only covers the statutory fees payable directly to the URSB. There might be other expenses associated with company registration, such as:

• Professional Fees: If you engage a lawyer or a company registration agent to assist with the process, you must factor in their professional fees. These fees can vary depending on the complexity of your company structure and the services provided.

What is the cost of Stamp Duty of Company Limited by Guarantee in Uganda?

The Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) charges a fixed fee of UGX 35,000 as Stamp Duty for registering a Company Limited by Guarantee (CLG). This fee is regardless of the company’s guaranteed amount.

What is the cost of Registration fees for annual returns of a Company Limited by Guarantee, including a copy of a Balance Sheet in Uganda?

UGX 35,000: This is the standard fee levied by the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) for filing annual returns of a CLG. It covers the processing and registration of your company’s annual report with the URSB.

What is the cost of Registration fees for a Certified copy of the Memorandum of Equivalent for Foreign Companies in Uganda?

The registration fee for a certified copy of a Memorandum of Equivalent (MoE) for foreign companies in Uganda is US $350.

This fee is mandated by the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), the official body overseeing business registration in the country. It’s important to note that this is just one component of the process for foreign companies seeking to operate in Uganda.

What is the registration fee for any other documents (Forms) for foreign companies in Uganda?

The registration fee for most additional documents (forms) required by foreign companies in Uganda is USD 70. This applies to forms used for ongoing corporate maintenance after the initial registration process.

What is the cost of Certification fees Per Copy for Foreign Companies in Uganda?

The certification fee per copy for foreign companies in Uganda is USD 30.

What is the cost of Registration fees for a mortgage/Charge in Uganda?

The cost of Registration fees for a mortgage/Charge in Uganda is UGX. 55,000.

What is the registration fee for a series of debentures in Uganda?

The Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) charges a fixed fee of UGX 55,000 to register a series of debentures. This fee applies regardless of the total amount secured by the debenture series.

What is the cost of Inspection fees for a Register in Uganda?

The inspection fee for registering in Uganda is UGX. 25,000.

What is the registration fee for a Receiver or Manager of Property in Uganda?

The registration fee for a Receiver or Manager of Property in Uganda is UGX 35,000. According to the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), the government agency responsible for business registration in the country, it’s important to note that this fee only covers the cost of registering the receiver or manager with the URSB. Depending on the specific circumstances, there may be other associated costs, such as legal fees for drafting the necessary documentation.

What is the cost of Company Resolution fees in Uganda?

The standard fee for filing company resolutions with the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) is UGX 35,000. This applies to various resolutions, including those concerning:

• Appointment or change of company directors or secretary
• Change of company registered office
• Allotment of shares
• Increase in share capital

Important Considerations

While UGX 35,000 is the baseline fee, it’s important to remember a few things:

• Complexity of the Resolution: In some cases, particularly intricate resolutions, there might be additional fees depending on the specific situation.
• Professional Help: Consulting a Ugandan business professional is recommended for complex resolutions or if you’re unsure about the process. They can provide guidance and ensure everything is filed correctly, potentially saving you time and frustration in the long run.

What is the cost of Registration fees for Documents in Uganda?

Their fees are typically standardized, with a base rate of UGX 35,000 for many services, including Registration of any other documents or instruments submitted to the registrar.

What is the cost of Fees for Company Forms in Uganda?

The Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) charges UGX 35,000 for the company registration forms themselves. This covers the core set of documents required to register your business.

However, it’s crucial to recognize that this is just one aspect of the overall registration cost. Here’s a breakdown of additional potential expenses:

• Legal fees: Consulting a business lawyer to ensure proper completion of the forms and navigate potential complexities can incur legal costs.
• Publication fees: Publishing a company registration notice in the national newspaper may be mandatory depending on the company type, resulting in additional costs.
• Other government fees: Depending on your business activities, you might need registrations, each with fee structures, with other government entities.

What is the cost of Stamp Duty on transfer of shares in Uganda?

In Uganda, a Stamp Duty of 1.5% is levied on the value of shares being transferred. This tax applies whenever there’s a change in ownership of shares in a Ugandan company.

Key Points to Consider:

• Base for Calculation: The 1.5% rate is applied to the entire consideration for the transfer of shares. Consideration refers to the total value the seller receives in exchange for the shares. This value can be monetary (cash) or non-monetary (assets, property, etc.).
• Importance of Compliance: Ensuring the Stamp Duty is paid correctly is crucial to avoid any penalties or delays in processing the share transfer. The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) administers and collects Stamp Duty.

Additional Considerations:

• Share Transfer Registration Fee: Besides the Stamp Duty, there’s a separate fee for registering the share transfer with the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB).
• Professional Advice: While this information provides a general overview, it’s advisable to consult with a qualified Ugandan tax professional for specific guidance on your situation. They can advise on the applicability of Stamp Duty in your particular case and ensure compliance with all relevant regulations.

What is the registration fee for transfer forms in Uganda?

Here’s a more detailed explanation of the registration fee for transfer forms in Uganda:

Registration Fee for Transfer Forms in Uganda

The registration fee for transfer forms in Uganda is comprised of two parts:

1. Base Fee: This is a fixed fee set by the Ugandan government and currently stands at UGX 35,000.
2. Share Transfer Fee: This fee is calculated as a percentage of transferred shares. It’s important to note that this is not a flat fee but 1% of the total shares involved in the transfer.

Example Calculation

Let’s say you’re transferring 1,000 shares. Here’s how to calculate the total registration fee:

• Share Transfer Fee = (1% x 1,000 shares) = UGX 10.00
• Total Registration Fee = UGX 35,000 (Base Fee) + UGX 10.00 (Share Transfer Fee) = UGX 35,010.00

What is the cost of Fees for Annual Returns in Uganda?

The standard annual return fee in Uganda is UGX 55,000. The fees are set by the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) and are subject to change. Confirming the current fee with the URSB directly before filing is always a good practice.

What is the cost of Registration fees for Powers of Attorney, Deeds, Constitution, Agreements, and Affidavits in Uganda?

In Uganda, the registration fees for essential legal documents are standardized to ensure uniformity and accessibility. Registering Powers of Attorney, Deeds, Constitutions, Agreements, and Affidavits costs UGX 55,000.

This fee structure is set to streamline the registration process, making it straightforward for individuals and entities to comply with legal requirements. Whether formalizing a business agreement, establishing a constitution, or executing a Power of Attorney, the registration fee remains consistent at UGX 55,000, ensuring all necessary legal documents are registered with the appropriate authorities.

What is the cost of Registration fees for Affidavits and Statutory Declarations in Uganda?

In Uganda, the cost associated with registering affidavits and statutory declarations is established at UGX 35,000. This fee is mandated by the relevant legal and regulatory authorities to ensure the proper processing and validation of these important legal documents.

Affidavits, written statements confirmed by oath or affirmation for use as evidence in legal proceedings, and statutory declarations, which are solemn statements made instead of an oath, require official registration to be recognized as valid and enforceable under Ugandan law. The UGX 35,000 registration fee encompasses administrative costs associated with verifying, documenting, and archiving these declarations to maintain legal integrity and accessibility within the judicial system.

What is the cost of Record Search fees in Uganda?

In Uganda, the fee for conducting a Record Search is UGX 25,000. This fee is a standard charge imposed by the relevant governmental or institutional bodies responsible for maintaining and providing access to public records.

The Record Search fee covers the administrative costs of retrieving, handling, and processing the requested records. It ensures that the infrastructure and resources necessary for efficient record-keeping and information retrieval are adequately funded. Therefore, whether one is searching for legal, personal, or professional purposes, the established fee remains UGX 25,000.

What is the cost of Certification fees for Company Documents in Uganda?

The cost associated with certifying company documents in Uganda is UGX 35,000. This fee is stipulated by the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), the statutory body responsible for registering and regulating business entities in Uganda.

The fee covers the administrative and procedural expenses incurred during the certification process, including verifying the documents’ authenticity and affixing an official seal or stamp to denote their certified status.

What is the application fee for insolvency practitioners in Uganda?

In Uganda, individuals seeking to become licensed insolvency practitioners must pay an application fee as part of the registration process. The fee set by the regulatory authorities for this application is UGX 150,000.

This fee is necessary to cover administrative costs associated with the processing and review of the application. Paying this fee is a mandatory step in ensuring that all applicants meet the required standards and qualifications to practice as insolvency practitioners in the country.

What is the Fee for filing Annual Returns (Insolvency Practitioner) in Uganda?

The fee for filing annual returns for an Insolvency Practitioner in Uganda is UGX 50,000. This fee is a mandatory payment required by the regulatory authorities to ensure compliance with the legal requirements governing insolvency practitioners.

How to Utilize URSB Services

To effectively utilize URSB services, it’s essential to follow these steps:

1. Identify Your Service Needs: Determine your required services, such as a business name, company registration, or legal documents.
2. Prepare the Necessary Documents: Gather all required documentation. This may include identification, company forms, affidavits, or other legal documents.
3. Calculate Costs: Use the fee structure provided to estimate the total cost of services required.
4. Access URSB Online Portal: Visit the URSB Online Portal to access and submit applications for various services.
5. Payment: Payments can be made online through the portal or via designated payment methods outlined by URSB.
6. Submit Applications: Complete and submit your applications through the URSB portal or at physical offices if necessary.
7. Follow-up: Monitor the status of your applications and ensure that all required processes are completed.

Importance of URSB Services

URSB services are beneficial and essential for the following reasons: They ensure legal compliance, protect your business, and enhance its credibility. This reassures you that you are taking the necessary steps to secure your business’s future by utilizing these services.

1. Legal Compliance: Ensuring your business or organization complies with national laws and regulations.
2. Protecting Business Interests: Registering names, charges, and other particulars protects your business interests and intellectual property.
3. Facilitating Business Operations: Proper registration and documentation facilitate smooth business operations and interactions with other entities.
4. Access to Legal Frameworks: Legal document registration and certification provide a solid legal framework for operations and dispute resolution.
5. Enhanced Credibility: Registered businesses and organizations enjoy enhanced credibility and trust from customers, partners, and stakeholders. This improves your business’s reputation and instills a sense of security and trustworthiness in your business relationships.

Conclusion

URSB provides a comprehensive suite of services essential for businesses, foreign companies, legal practitioners, and other entities in Uganda. Understanding the available services and associated costs ensures efficient and compliant business operations. Whether starting a new business, managing an existing one, or handling legal documents, URSB’s structured services and transparent fee schedule facilitate ease of access and administration, giving you the reassurance and confidence you need in your business operations.

For detailed information on each service, visit the URSB Online Portal and explore the resources available to assist with your registration needs.

DISCLAIMER

The content on this webpage is intended to provide general information and insights from an expert management consultant. It is thoroughly researched to ensure accuracy and relevance. However, this information should not be construed as legal advice. Readers should consult with qualified legal professionals for any legal concerns or decisions. The writer and Houston Executive Consulting bear no responsibility for any actions or decisions based on this website’s content. Always seek professional guidance for your specific circumstances.