Legal Framework for Foreign Business Registration
The Union of the Comoros operates under the OHADA (Organisation pour l'Harmonisation en Afrique du Droit des Affaires) legal framework, which standardizes business law across member states. Foreign investors enjoy equal treatment with local entrepreneurs under Article 23 of the Investment Code, allowing 100% foreign ownership in most sectors. Restricted sectors include telecommunications, banking, and certain natural resource extraction activities that require government partnerships.
Required Documents and Legal Prerequisites
Foreign entrepreneurs must submit a valid passport with at least 12 months validity, certified copies of educational qualifications relevant to the business sector, and a clean criminal background check from their home country. Additionally, you need proof of Comorian address (rental agreement or property deed), a detailed business plan in French or Arabic, and bank statements showing sufficient funds for the minimum capital requirement. All foreign documents must be apostilled and translated by certified translators in Moroni or Mutsamudu.
Business Structure Options and Capital Requirements
The most popular structure for foreigners is the Société à Responsabilité Limitée (SARL), requiring minimum capital of KMF 200,000 (approximately $450 USD) with at least 25% paid upon registration. Sole proprietorships (Entreprise Individuelle) require only KMF 50,000 but offer no liability protection. Joint-stock companies (SA) need KMF 10,000,000 minimum capital, making them suitable only for large-scale operations in sectors like tourism or export agriculture.
Registration Process Through CNDCI
Begin registration at the CNDCI office in Moroni (Boulevard de la Corniche) or the satellite office in Mutsamudu, Anjouan. Submit your complete dossier with registration fees of KMF 25,000 for SARL or KMF 15,000 for sole proprietorships, plus KMF 5,000 for the commercial register inscription. The CNDCI conducts name availability searches within 3-5 business days and issues provisional certificates allowing you to open business bank accounts while final registration processes.
Tax Registration and Compliance Requirements
Register for tax obligations at the Direction Générale des Impôts within 30 days of business registration, obtaining your Numéro d'Identification Fiscale (NIF). Corporate tax rates stand at 35% for companies with annual turnover exceeding KMF 50 million, while smaller businesses benefit from simplified tax regimes with rates as low as 2% of turnover. Foreign-owned businesses must also register for VAT if annual turnover exceeds KMF 30 million, with standard rates of 10% on most goods and services.
Timeline and Associated Costs Breakdown
Complete business registration typically takes 15-30 days from submission of complete documentation, though complex cases involving multiple foreign shareholders may extend to 45 days. Total costs range from KMF 95,000-150,000 including registration fees, legal translation services, and mandatory publication in the official gazette. Additional costs include business license fees varying by sector (KMF 50,000-500,000), office lease deposits typically requiring 3-6 months advance payment, and professional service fees for legal assistance averaging KMF 200,000-400,000.
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