A SACCO Licence Uganda is a mandatory authorization issued by the Uganda Microfinance Regulatory Authority (UMRA) that allows a registered cooperative society to provide financial services legally. No SACCO may operate without being both registered under the Cooperative Societies Act and licensed under the Tier 4 Microfinance and Money Lenders Act, 2016.
Application Procedure
To obtain a SACCO Licence Uganda, follow these steps:
- Confirm Registration:
Ensure your SACCO is officially registered under the Cooperative Societies Act. - Prepare Documentation:
Gather essential documents, including registration certificates, business plans, and management details. - Fill Out Application Form:
Obtain and complete the UMRA SACCO licence application form accurately. - Attach Required Documents:
Attach certified copies of:- Certificate of registration
- Organizational structure and management details
- Business plan
- Credit and lending policies
- Pay Application Fee:
Pay the prescribed non-refundable UGX 50,000 fee and keep the payment receipt. - Submit Application:
Submit your completed form, attachments, and payment slip to the Finance Officer in charge of SACCO Registration at UMRA. - Collect Licence:
Within 21 days, if approved, collect your SACCO licence certificate from UMRA.
Required Documents
Applicants must provide the following certified documents:
- Certificate of Registration (under the Cooperative Societies Act)
- Tax Identification Number (TIN) certificate
- Memorandum and Articles of Association with minimum core capital of UGX 5 million
- Notification of registered business address (head office, branches, or outlets)
- Payment proof of the application fee
- Particulars of directors and company secretary, with IDs and certificates of good conduct
- Credit policies, loan interest structure, and business plan
- Objective statement relating to offering financial services
Eligibility
To qualify for a SACCO Licence Uganda, the society must:
- Operate to promote economic and social welfare of members
- Follow cooperative principles
- Demonstrate capacity to offer financial services effectively
Fees
| Type | Amount (UGX) |
|---|---|
| Licence Fee | 2,000,000 |
| Renewal Fee | 2,000,000 |
| Registration Fee | 50,000 |
| Cooperative Bye-laws | 10,000–15,000 |
| Name Search | 2,200 |
| Name Reservation | 20,000 |
Payment Account: 6000010330, Barclays Bank IPS Branch
Validity and Processing Time
A SACCO Licence Uganda is valid for one year and expires on 31 December each year.
Failure to renew or pay annual fees may result in licence cancellation.
Processing Time: Maximum of 21 working days.
Office Contacts
Uganda Microfinance Regulatory Authority (UMRA)
Rwenzori Towers, Block B, Ground Floor, Plot 6 Nakasero Road, Kampala
P.O. Box 11545, Kampala
Tel: +256 417 799 700 | Toll-free: 0800 111 449
Email: [email protected] / [email protected]
Uganda Cooperative Savings and Credit Union (UCSCU)
Plot 239 Maganjo, Bombo Road, Kampala
P.O. Box 7103, Kampala
Tel: +256 414 233 601
Email: [email protected]
Registrar of Cooperative Societies
Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives
Farmers House, Parliament Avenue, Kampala
Tel: +256 312 324 000 / +256 414 230 916
Key Instructions
- SACCOs may only provide financial services to their members.
- The SACCO name must include “Savings and Credit Cooperative Society” or “SACCO.”
- Borrowing limits must comply with UMRA regulations.
- Submitting false or misleading information is a punishable offence by law.
Why This Licence Matters
Obtaining a SACCO Licence Uganda provides:
- Legal recognition and protection from government authorities
- Enhanced credibility and investor confidence
- Job creation within local communities
- Operational continuity, even after the founders’ exit
