🔢 TIN Registration Guide

Tax Identification Numbers in Africa — What You Need to Know

A TIN (Tax Identification Number) is a unique identifier issued by the national revenue authority. It is required to open a business bank account, file tax returns, pay employees, and in many countries, to complete government procurement contracts.

• Most African countries now offer online TIN registration through the tax authority's web portal
• TIN is typically free of charge — be wary of agents charging excessive fees
• Corporate TIN is different from individual/personal TIN — businesses need both in some countries
• TIN is linked to VAT registration in countries where turnover thresholds are met
• Some countries (Kenya PIN, Nigeria TIN) integrate TIN with broader e-government platforms
• Mauritius uses a Business Registration Number (BRN) which doubles as the tax identifier
• OHADA countries have a RCCM number (Registre du Commerce et du Crédit Mobilier) which is used alongside the fiscal identifier (NIF/IFU)