Tanzania Business License Fee Calculator
Estimate business license fees in Tanzania by city and sector. Dar, Arusha, Mwanza, Dodoma, Mbeya, Tanga.
How to estimate business license fees
How Tanzanian business license fees actually work
The business license (leseni ya biashara) is paid annually to the local council (halmashauri) where your business operates — separate from your TIN (TRA, national) and BRELA registration (national). Each council sets its own fee schedule based on city/town, sector and class.
How fees are determined
- Council: Dar es Salaam is highest, upcountry councils lower.
- Sector: hospitality, hardware, manufacturing typically higher than retail.
- Class: small / medium / large — based on premises size, turnover or asset value.
- Sub-licenses: some sectors (alcohol, pharmacy, security) need additional sectoral licenses.
Renewal & penalties
Renewal is due by 31st March every year. Late renewal attracts a 25% penalty and the council can close the business after 60 days of expiry.
Online businesses
Online-only businesses register at the council where the office or owner resides. Address verification (utility bill, lease) is normally required.
Combine with the BRELA Registration Cost tool, the EFD/VFD Eligibility Checker, and the Tax Calendar to plan first-year compliance.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I pay business license fees?
Are fees the same in every city?
When is renewal due?
Do online businesses need a license?
Is the license the same as TIN?
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