How To Start A Business in Guinea-Bissau
Step-by-Step Guide to Starting a Business in Guinea-Bissau
1. Reserve and Register the Business Name
Business name reservation and registration are handled through the Agência de Promoção de Investimento Privado (APIP Guinea-Bissau).
- Fee: XOF 25,000–50,000 (depending on the business type)
- Duration: 3–5 working days
2. Draft and Notarize the Articles of Association
The company’s legal documents must be drafted and notarized by a public notary.
- Fee: Varies (usually XOF 50,000+ depending on complexity)
- Duration: 1–3 working days
3. Register with the Commercial Registry
Submit the notarized documents to the Commercial Registry (Registo Comercial) to formally incorporate the business.
- Fee: XOF 30,000–70,000
- Duration: 2–5 working days
4. Obtain a Tax Identification Number (NIF)
Register with the Direcção Geral de Contribuições e Impostos to obtain a NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal).
- Fee: Free
- Duration: 1–2 working days
5. Open a Business Bank Account
Use your company registration documents and NIF to open a business bank account in a local bank.
- Minimum Capital: Required for some types (e.g., LLCs: XOF 1,000,000)
6. Register with the Social Security Institute
Employers must register their business and employees with the National Social Security Institute (Instituto Nacional de Previdência Social - INPS).
- Employer Contribution: Typically 14–16% of gross salary
- Employee Contribution: Around 8% of gross salary
7. Obtain Sector-Specific Licenses (if applicable)
For businesses in regulated sectors (e.g., telecommunications, healthcare, education), obtain relevant permits from the supervising ministry or authority.
- Fee: Varies by sector
- Duration: Depends on sector and authority
8. Register with APIP Guinea-Bissau (Foreign Investors)
Foreign investors are encouraged to register with APIP Guinea-Bissau for assistance, incentives, and investment protection support.
- Minimum Capital: Often required for foreign-owned businesses (e.g., USD 50,000+)
Useful Resources
Disclaimer: This guide is intended for general informational purposes only. Procedures, fees, and requirements may change. It is advisable to consult official sources or legal professionals in Guinea-Bissau before proceeding with company registration.