Somaliland
Corporate Guide

If there is no requirement to have a local director or shareholder in Somaliland, what is a foreigner required to do to register a company for tax purposes and other similar post-incorporation registrations?

Once a company is incorporated, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Tourism will provide the company with a referral letter which it should use for purposes of obtaining a tax identification number (TIN) and the relevant licences. 

Tax: The Ministry of Finance Development assigns TINs to all companies and individuals, and issues them with a tax registration certificate confirming that they are registered taxpayers in Somaliland. New businesses that commence taxable activities are required to register within 21 days of their incorporation. 

To apply for a TIN, a company needs to provide a copy of the applicant’s national ID or passport, its trade/business licence, and the company’s articles of association. 

Business licences: The process for business licences has been simplified, with companies now being able to create online profiles and register their businesses directly through the BRLS.