Starting a Business in Namibia as a Foreigner: The 2026 Guide for International Investors

Can foreigners own 100% of a Namibian company? Yes. This guide is about starting a business in Namibia as a foreigner and explains the requirements for external companies, visas, and how to register remotely without flying to Windhoek.

Is Namibia Open for International Business?

With its political stability, strategic location as a gateway to the SADC region, and growing energy sector, Namibia has become a prime target for international investors.

But for a foreign entrepreneur sitting in Berlin, Cape Town, or London, the administrative process can seem opaque. Can you own 100% of the shares? Do you need a local partner? How do you open a bank account without a residence permit?

At Tumascho Services (BIPARegistration.com), we specialize in helping international clients navigate the Business and Intellectual Property Authority (BIPA) and NamRA systems remotely.

Here is everything you need to know about registering a company in Namibia as a non-resident.

1. Can Foreigners Own 100% of a Namibian Company?

Yes.

Under the Namibian Companies Act, there are generally no restrictions on foreign shareholding for standard Private Companies (Pty Ltd). You do not necessarily need a Namibian business partner to register a company, although having one can help with local compliance and tender requirements (NEEEF).

The Two Main Options for Foreigners:

1. New Private Company (Pty Ltd): You register a brand new Namibian legal entity where you are the shareholder. This is the most common route.
2. External Company: You register your existing foreign company (e.g., a UK Ltd) as an “External Company” in Namibia. This is more complex and usually reserved for large multinationals.

2. The “Local Address” Hurdle (Principal Place of Business)

While you don’t need a local partner, you DO need a local presence.

BIPA requires every company to have:

• A Registered Office Address: Where legal notices are served.
• A Postal Address: Where mail is sent.

The Problem: You cannot use a P.O. Box in Dubai or London. It must be a physical Namibian address.

The Solution: Our Registration Packages can assist international clients with local domicilium services during the setup phase.

3. The “Public Officer” Requirement (Tax Compliance)

Once your company is registered with BIPA, you must register for tax with NamRA.

Here is the catch: NamRA requires every company to appoint a Public Officer.

This person must be:

• A natural person (not a company).
• Resident in Namibia.
• Responsible for the company’s tax filings.

If you are 100% foreign-owned and located abroad, you will need to appoint a local representative, accountant, or attorney to act as your Public Officer.

4. Documents You Will Need

To register your Pty Ltd remotely, we will need the following from you (and all directors):

• Certified Passport Copies: These must be certified by a Notary Public in your home country.
• Police Clearance Certificate: Often required for subsequent visa applications or banking.
• Proof of Address: A utility bill from your home country.

5. Can I Open a Namibian Bank Account Remotely?

This is the hardest part of the process. Namibian banks are strict due to anti-money laundering laws.

• Registration: We can handle BIPA registration 100% remotely.
• Banking: Most banks (FNB, Bank Windhoek, Standard Bank) will eventually require the directors to visit a branch physically to verify identities.

Pro Tip: We prepare all your Bank Account Opening Documents (Resolution, Articles of Association, Shareholder Certificates) as part of our service, so when you do fly in, your appointment is quick and smooth.

How We Facilitate Remote Registration

You focus on your investment strategy; we act as your “boots on the ground” in Windhoek.

1. Name Reservation: We check and reserve your name via Form CM5.
2. Drafting: We draft your Memorandum & Articles of Association.
3. Submission: We physically lodge your documents at the BIPA head office.
4. Courier: We send your original certificates via DHL/Courier to your international office.

Ready to enter the Namibian market?

👉 View our Private Company (Pty Ltd) Registration Package

(Includes all BIPA fees, Company Seal, and Shareholder Certificates)

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Business Visa to register a company?

No. You can own a company without visiting Namibia. However, if you plan to work in the company within Namibia, you will need to apply for an Investor Visa or Work Permit through the Ministry of Home Affairs.

How long does it take?

For foreign shareholders, the process typically takes 14 working days due to the extra scrutiny on foreign documents.

Can I register a Close Corporation (CC)?

No. The Close Corporation Act prohibits “Juristic Persons” (other companies) from holding membership. While individual foreigners can be members of a CC, most international investors prefer the Pty Ltd structure because it allows for clearer shareholding structures and future investment.

Start your application today:

Get Started with Tumascho Services