Questions and answers

The Online Business Registration System (OBRS) is a new digital platform that enables entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners to access business registration services online from anywhere in Sierra Leone or abroad. Users can complete the registration process digitally, from business name search and reservation to registration and certificate generation.

Business registration gives your business formal recognition and credibility, enabling you to participate in the formal economy and access a wider range of business opportunities. It also helps protect your business name and brand identity and provides a recognized legal foundation for operating your business.

The OBRS platform can be accessed from your computer or mobile phone, anywhere, anytime. It replaces slower, paper-based registration processes with a simple, streamlined online process, reducing the time, travel, paperwork, and back-and-forth traditionally required to register and formalize a business.

OBRS is available to entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners in Sierra Leone and abroad. Whether you are a sole trader, part of a partnership, or operating a company, you can use the OBRS platform to access a wide range of business registration and related services online, from registering a business and submitting annual filings to paying annual fees and making other business-related requests.

Have your identification, email address, phone number, business details, and any required supporting documents ready for submission. You will also be required to make the applicable registration payment through the payment channels available on the platform.

Yes. OBRS uses modern security measures designed to protect users' information and transactions. Personal and business information is handled securely and in accordance with applicable data protection and privacy requirements.

Yes. Once you submit your application, you can track its status online and receive updates as it progresses through the registration process.

Processing time may vary depending on the type of business, the service requested, and whether all required information and supporting documents have been correctly provided. OBRS is designed to make business registration faster, more efficient, and convenient by enabling users to complete the process online.

In addition to business registration services, OBRS provides a range of post-registration services that allow business owners to manage and update their business information and complete other business-related requests online.

Each service has its own processing timeframe, which may vary depending on the nature and requirements of the service. The applicable processing time can be tracked for the relevant service on the OBRS platform.

Payments are made securely through the dedicated payment system on the OBRS platform. You pay by instant transfer from a mobile money wallet or a bank app, and the payment options available are shown when you pay. The fee is shown before you pay.

Once your registration application and supporting documents have been reviewed and approved, your Certificate of Incorporation or Registration will be generated digitally and made available to you through the OBRS platform.

If you require a hard copy of your certificate, you may visit the NIB office and request a printed copy.

Yes. During the transition period, both online and physical registration services will be available at NIB offices. However, customers are encouraged to use the OBRS digital platform as it provides a convenient and streamlined way to access registration services online without the need to visit an office.

The OBRS Customer Support Team is available to assist customers, respond to enquiries, resolve issues, and support a smooth registration experience.

Customers can get support through the official NIB website, www.nib.gov.sl, the OBRS customer support channels, by phone or email, or by visiting the NIB office. The phone number, email address and office address are on the Contact page.

The central government agency mandated to promote, coordinate and facilitate private sector investment in Sierra Leone.

Under the National Investment Board Act of 2022.

To create a competitive investment climate that drives sustainable economic development.

One-stop facilitation, aftercare, policy advocacy and support for protecting investments.

It oversees policy direction, gives strategic guidance and governs the Board's activities.

Yes. It promotes and facilitates partnerships for infrastructure and development projects.

Yes. It works closely with international investors and organisations to promote investment opportunities.

Register online through this website, or visit the Board's office in Freetown. You start by reserving a name.

Yes. Sole proprietorships are recognised and can be registered online or at the office.

Identification, an approved business name, the completed application and payment of the fee. The online form lists any further documents your type of business needs.

Yes. Fees depend on the service and the type of business. The fee for each service is shown before you pay.

You can register several business activities, but each sector may need its own licences.

Yes. Changes are submitted online or at the office with supporting documents.

Companies file an annual return, and sole proprietors file a self-assessment. The filing services in your account show what is due.

A business must register with the National Revenue Authority and meet its tax filing and payment requirements.

Yes. Transfers must be registered with the Board so the official record is updated.

Agriculture, mining, manufacturing, energy, tourism, information technology and infrastructure.

Tax holidays, customs duty exemptions, repatriation of profits and access to special economic zones, among others. See the incentives page for the conditions.

Send a formal application with your business plan and registration documents to the Board.

With permits, incentives and aftercare, and with protection under bilateral investment treaties.

Yes. It facilitates land acquisition through coordination with the government agencies concerned.

Most sectors allow 100% foreign ownership, but some require a local partner under the law.

Yes. Investors must comply with Sierra Leone's environmental laws, and some projects need an environmental impact assessment.

Yes. The Board gives investors market data, reports and economic analysis to support their decisions.

Through the legal framework, dispute resolution and advocacy for fair treatment.

The Board offers mediation and refers unresolved cases to the proper legal authorities.

Yes. It gives continuing support, including help with problems and with expansion.

Through targeted incentives, capacity building, and help to reach finance and markets.

With export permits, trade information and links to international markets.

Call +232 73 952 144, write to info@nib.gov.sl, or visit 3 Jomo Kenyatta Road, Freetown, Monday to Friday. The contact page has the details.