How to Register with ZIMRA — Step-by-Step Guide

Why You Must Register with ZIMRA

Every business operating in Zimbabwe is legally required to register with the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) within 30 days of commencing business operations. This applies to Private Limited Companies, sole traders, partnerships, trusts, and non-profit organisations.

ZIMRA registration is essential for:

• Obtaining your Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN)
• Filing and paying taxes (corporate tax, income tax, VAT, PAYE)
• Getting a tax clearance certificate (ITF263) for tenders and contracts
• Opening corporate bank accounts (most banks require your TIN)
• Importing and exporting goods through customs

Documents Required for ZIMRA Registration

Before starting your registration, gather the following documents:

For Companies (Private Limited / PBC)

• CR14 Certificate — Certificate of Incorporation from CIPC/Registrar of Companies
• Company Memorandum & Articles of Association
• National IDs of all directors and shareholders
• Proof of Business Address — Utility bill, lease agreement, or affidavit
• Bank confirmation letter (if available)
• REV1 Form — ZIMRA registration application form

For Sole Traders / Individuals

• National ID (original and certified copy)
• Proof of Address — Utility bill or affidavit
• Business description — Nature and type of activities
• REV1 Form

Step-by-Step ZIMRA Registration Process

Option 1: Online Registration via TARMS

The TARMS (Tax Administration Revenue Management System) portal is the fastest way to register:

1. Visit efiling.zimra.co.zw and click “Register New User”
2. Create your account with a valid email address and mobile number
3. Select the registration type (Company, Individual, Partnership, Trust)
4. Complete the REV1 form with:
   • Business name and trading name
   • Physical and postal address
   • Nature of business activities (ISIC code)
   • Estimated annual turnover
   • Director/shareholder details
   • Banking details
5. Upload supporting documents (scanned copies of CR14, IDs, proof of address)
6. Submit the application and note your reference number
7. Wait for processing — ZIMRA will review within 1-5 working days
8. Receive your TIN via email or SMS once approved

Option 2: In-Person at a ZIMRA Office

1. Visit any ZIMRA regional office (Harare, Bulawayo, Mutare, Gweru, Masvingo)
2. Collect and complete the REV1 form at the office
3. Submit with all original documents for verification
4. Your TIN may be issued on the same day

What Taxes to Register For

When completing the REV1 form, you must indicate which taxes you are registering for. Common options include:

Tax Type	Who Must Register	Threshold
Income Tax	All businesses and individuals earning income	Above $12,000/year tax-free threshold
Corporate Tax	All registered companies	All taxable income at 24.72%
VAT	Businesses above turnover threshold	$40,000 annual turnover
PAYE	All employers with employees	Any employment income
Withholding Tax	Anyone making payments subject to WHT	As applicable

After Registration: Next Steps

1. Keep your TIN safe — You will need it for all tax filings and official dealings
2. Set up your accounting system — Maintain proper books and records
3. Note filing deadlines — Tax returns must be filed by the prescribed dates
4. Register for additional taxes as your business grows (e.g., VAT when you exceed the $40,000 threshold)
5. Apply for tax clearance when needed for tenders or government contracts