How to Register a Sole Proprietorship in Senegal

Senegal is located in the very west of Africa, facing the Atlantic Ocean, which gives it an excellent position for trading. The capital is Dakar, with a population of just over a million; Senegal has a total population of about 16.5 million. The main business activities in Senegal are mining, tourism, fishing, and agriculture. Senegal's GDP has been growing steadily since 2003 and will continue to grow in the coming years. 

Disclaimer: This article is not a substitute for legal advice. Please always check official websites or seek legal advice before you take action.

The sole proprietorship registration process in Senegal

The registration process depends on whether you are a Senegalese citizen or a foreigner. The process is not complicated and consists of several steps.

You submit the complete documentation to the BCE. 

Registration process

To register your sole proprietorship, you will be asked for the following documentation:

• Two copies of a passport (for foreign residents)
• A certificate of residency (issued by the Police Department)
• Criminal records from the country of origin, not older than three months
• 2000 FCFA tax stamp
• Registration fee of 10,000 FCAF (independent company without a name)
• Registration fee of 20,000 (in case the name is included)
• 10,000 FCAF registration fee for a commercial name for a reservation with an intellectual property body (OAPI)

Keep in mind that the websites are in French. When registering, make sure you bring a French-speaking person with you if you don't speak the language.

Tax Identification Number in Senegal

VAT in Senegal is 18%. To enter the taxation system, you need to obtain a TIN.

The documents you need to obtain a TIN are:

•  A written application
• A photocopy of the national identity card
• A photocopy of the certificate of registration in the commercial register
• Proof of physical location of the business

The whole process is carried out in person within the Center Tax Service Board (Au Center des services fiscaux - CSF). The process of obtaining a TIN takes about three working days.