What Is BIPA Namibia? The Complete Beginner's Guide
BIPA stands for Business and Intellectual Property Authority of Namibia. It's the government body that registers companies, CCs, and NGOs. Here's everything you need to know in plain language.
What Is BIPA?
BIPA — the Business and Intellectual Property Authority of Namibia — is a government-owned entity established under the Business and Intellectual Property Authority Act No. 8 of 2016. BIPA is responsible for:
- Registering all businesses in Namibia (Close Corporations, Private Companies, NGOs, Foreign Companies).
- Managing annual returns and company records.
- Protecting intellectual property including patents, trademarks, and copyrights.
- Maintaining deregistration and restoration of companies.
Where Is BIPA Located?
BIPA's head office is in Windhoek at Frans Indongo Gardens, Independence Avenue. This is where physical document submissions and collections take place. BIPA does not yet offer full online registration — applications must be submitted in person or through a registered agent like Chrimson Consultants.
What Does BIPA Register?
- Close Corporation (CC): Up to 10 members, simpler compliance, suited for small businesses.
- Private Company (Pty Ltd): Up to 50 shareholders, preferred for tenders and growth.
- NGO / Section 21 Company: Non-profit associations and welfare organisations.
- Foreign Company (External Company): Overseas entities conducting business in Namibia.
What Are BIPA Annual Returns?
All registered entities must file annual returns with BIPA each year and pay an annual duty. Failure to file for two consecutive years can result in deregistration. Chrimson Consultants handles annual return compliance for registered clients on a retainer basis.
BIPA vs NamRA vs SSC
These three are often confused:
- BIPA — Registers your company and maintains corporate records.
- NamRA — Registers you for tax (TIN, income tax, VAT, PAYE).
- SSC — Registers you as an employer for Social Security contributions.
All three are required for a fully operational, tender-ready Namibian business.
Do I Need to Visit BIPA in Person?
Not if you use Chrimson Consultants. We act as your registered agent — we prepare documents, submit applications, collect your certificates, and update you throughout. Many of our clients register from South Africa, Europe, and other Namibian towns without ever visiting Windhoek. Start your registration online →
Need help registering your business in Namibia?
Chrimson Consultants handles company registration, BIPA compliance, NAMRA tax registration, and tender-readiness for Namibian businesses. Contact us today.