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beginner business 2 weeks

Malawi Business Registration System (MBRS)

D
Dzaleka Online Services
• November 22, 2025
Table of Contents

Course Overview

Welcome to the Malawi Business Registration System (MBRS) course. This guide is designed to help entrepreneurs and business owners navigate the digital registration process in Malawi. Whether you are starting a sole proprietorship, a partnership, or a limited company, this course will walk you through every step of using the MBRS portal.

By the end of this course, you will:

  • Understand the different types of business entities in Malawi.
  • Know exactly what documents you need before starting.
  • Be able to create an account and navigate the MBRS portal.
  • Successfully register your business or company online.
  • Understand your post-registration obligations like tax registration.

Table of Contents

Module 1: Introduction to MBRS

1.1 What is MBRS?

The Malawi Business Registration System (MBRS) is a digital platform operated by the Department of Registrar General (under the Ministry of Justice). It replaces the old manual paper-based system, allowing you to register your business from anywhere.

Official Website: mbrs.gov.mw

1.2 Types of Registration

Before you begin, decide what you are registering:

  1. Business Name: For Sole Proprietorships (one owner) or Partnerships. Simpler and cheaper.
  2. Limited Company: A separate legal entity from its owners. Requires Directors and Shareholders.

1.3 Required Documents Checklist

Gather these before you start:

  • National ID (for citizens) or Passport/Resident Permit (for non-citizens).
  • Digital Passport Photo (for your profile).
  • Proposed Business Names (have 3 options in case your first choice is taken).
  • Contact Details: Email address and phone number.
  • Physical Address: Plot number or clear physical location description.

Module 2: Creating Your MBRS Account

2.1 Registration Steps

  1. Go to mbrs.gov.mw.
  2. Click “CREATE ACCOUNT”.
  3. Select “Citizen” or “Non-Citizen”.
    • Note: Citizens must use their National ID number.
  4. Fill in your personal details exactly as they appear on your ID.
  5. Create a strong password and submit.

2.2 Verification

  • You may need to verify your email address.
  • Once verified, log in to access your dashboard.

Module 3: Registering a Business Name

Best for: Small businesses, freelancers, and sole traders.

3.1 The Application Process

  1. Log in and select “Business Name Registration”.
  2. Name Search: Enter your proposed business name to check availability.
  3. Business Details: Enter the nature of business (what you do) and principal place of business.
  4. Ownership: Enter details of the owner(s).

3.2 Fees

  • Application Fee: Approximately MWK 2,000 (subject to change).
  • Payment is made via bank or mobile money (see Module 5).

Module 4: Incorporating a Limited Company

Best for: Growing businesses, startups seeking investment, and formal organizations.

4.1 The Incorporation Process

  1. Log in and select “Company Incorporation”.
  2. Company Details:
    • Company Type (Private Limited, Public, etc.).
    • Share Capital (e.g., 100,000 shares).
  3. Directors & Shareholders:
    • Add at least 2 Directors (for private companies).
    • Add Shareholders and allocate shares.
  4. Company Secretary: Required for companies.

4.2 Generated Documents

The system will auto-generate these PDF documents for you:

  • Memorandum of Association
  • Articles of Association
  • Consent of Directors & Shareholders

Action Required: You must PRINT these documents, SIGN them, and SCAN them back into the system.

4.3 Beneficial Ownership

You must declare who the ultimate owners of the company are (the “Beneficial Owners”). This is a mandatory legal requirement.

Module 5: Payments and Certification

5.1 Making Payments

After submitting your application, you will get an Application Number.

  • Bank Payment: Visit FDH Bank (or other designated banks) with your application number.
  • Online Payment: Use the integrated payment gateway if available (Visa/Mastercard/Mobile Money).

Estimated Fees (Company): ~MWK 75,000 (check official site for latest fees).

5.2 Getting Your Certificate

  • Once payment is confirmed, the Registrar General reviews your application.
  • Approval Time: Typically 3-5 working days.
  • Download: Log in to your dashboard to download your Certificate of Incorporation or Business Registration Certificate.

Module 6: Post-Registration Obligations

Registration is just the beginning!

6.1 Tax Registration (MRA)

You must register with the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA).

  • Get your TPIN (Taxpayer Identification Number).
  • Register for VAT (if turnover > MWK 25m/year) and PAYE (if you have employees).
  • MRA Website

6.2 Business Bank Account

Take your Certificate of Incorporation and TPIN to a bank to open a corporate account. Do not use your personal account for business!

6.3 Annual Returns

  • Business Names: Renew every 3 years.
  • Companies: File Annual Returns every year with the Registrar General to keep your company active.

Resources

Support & Guides

Important Contacts

  • Registrar General Support: Check the MBRS website for the latest helpdesk numbers.

Conclusion

Congratulations! By following this course, you are on your way to operating a formal, legal business in Malawi. Formalization opens doors to loans, government contracts, and growth.

Next Step: Log in to MBRS and start your application today!