A customs agent license Uganda authorizes a person or company to act on behalf of importers and exporters in clearing goods through customs. Licensing is mandatory under the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), ensuring that only qualified agents handle international trade documentation and tax obligations.
Procedure
To become a licensed customs agent in Uganda, applicants must apply directly to the Commissioner of Customs. The process begins with submission of Form C24, which serves as the official application form for licensing consideration.
Once the application is received, the Commissioner verifies the applicant’s credentials, supporting documents, and compliance with customs regulations. Only individuals or companies with established offices, operational equipment, and knowledge of customs clearance are considered for approval.
Upon successful evaluation, the applicant is notified to pay the prescribed license and application fees. After payment confirmation, the Customs Agent License is issued, authorizing the applicant to conduct clearing and forwarding activities legally in Uganda.
Required Documents
Applicants seeking a customs agent license Uganda must provide the following documents:
- Tenancy agreement or proof of office premises
- Certificate of registration and Company Form 20
- Company letter bearing official stamp or seal
- Evidence of an established physical office location
- Proof of banking relationship from a recognized financial institution
- Memorandum and Articles of Association of the company
- Certificate of registration from Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB)
- Tax Identification Numbers (TINs) for both company and directors
- Certified copies of national IDs, passports, or other identification for directors and staff handling customs documents
- Recent passport-sized photographs of directors and customs staff certified by a Notary Public or Commissioner for Oaths
Eligibility
Applicants for a customs agent license Uganda must meet the following requirements:
- Be a registered individual or company in Uganda.
- Possess adequate knowledge of customs clearance procedures.
- Maintain a functional office equipped with necessary tools such as computers and internet connectivity.
- Have no record of criminal or dishonest activities.
Fees
- Application Fee: USD 50
- License Fee: USD 400
- Renewal Fee: USD 400
All fees are payable to the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) through approved bank channels.
Validity
A customs agent license remains valid for one calendar year, expiring on 31st December annually, regardless of the issuance date. Renewal applications must be submitted before expiry to maintain continuous operation.
Processing Time
Processing typically takes two to four weeks, depending on document verification, internal reviews, and payment confirmation by the Commissioner’s office.
Office Location and Contact
Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) – Head Office
Plot M193/M194, Nakawa Industrial Area, Kampala, Uganda
P.O. Box 7279, Kampala
Toll-Free Number: +256 800 117000
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.ura.go.ug
Instructions
- Renewals are subject to the Commissioner’s approval based on compliance history.
- Both the agent and the importer/exporter share legal responsibility for all transactions conducted during the validity of the license.
- Any unlawful acts by the agent will result in joint prosecution under the Customs Act.
- Ensure all tax obligations are up to date before renewal to avoid rejection.
Required Information
To complete the customs agent license Uganda application, the following details are required:
- Applicant’s name or company name
- Registered business address and contact details
- Type of business (individual, partnership, or limited company)
- Director/partner names, nationalities, and shareholding percentages
- Bankers’ details
- Office location and proof of equipment
- Company registration and TIN numbers
Need for the Document
The customs agent license Uganda is required to legalize the operations of clearing and forwarding firms. It allows agents to transact import and export business on behalf of taxpayers while ensuring customs compliance, accurate duty assessment, and smooth border operations.
Without this license, no individual or firm can legally represent clients in customs matters within Uganda.
Information Which Might Help
A licensed customs agent is authorized to:
- Prepare and present customs declarations on behalf of clients.
- Sign all import/export documentation as required by the Customs Act.
- Ensure all applicable taxes and duties are paid accurately.
The importer or exporter remains responsible for the agent’s actions while the license is valid. Both parties are liable for any fraudulent declarations or unpaid customs dues.
