EZULWINI – The Eswatini Revenue Service has issued a public notice bringing into effect the Income Tax Compliance Certificate Regulations of 2022, requiring individuals and companies to obtain a Tax Compliance Certificate for a wide range of transactions across the Kingdom.
The notice, signed by Commissioner General Brightwell S. Nkambule, states that the regulations take effect immediately and apply to specific transactions listed in an official schedule. The move affects business operators, property owners, company directors, importers, entertainers and ordinary citizens involved in financial transfers.
The Commissioner General therefore calls upon all the persons as mentioned below to comply with these regulations by applying for a Tax Compliance Certificate whenever a need arises. This is effective immediately.
Under the regulations, anyone seeking the renewal or transfer of any licence, other than a motor vehicle licence, permit or similar document relating to any trade, business, profession or vocation for business or trade must first secure a Tax Compliance Certificate. The requirement falls on the person applying for the renewal or transfer.
Property transactions are also covered. The transfer of immovable property or any endorsement to a title deed that results in the transfer of property now requires a Tax Compliance Certificate from the transferer, transferee or the person in whose name the endorsement is to be made.
Company processes have not been spared. The registration or deregistration of a company requires compliance. For registration, individuals whose names are to appear as directors or subscribers must provide the certificate. For deregistration, the obligation rests with the company being removed from the register.
Motorists will need to take note. The first registration of a motor vehicle in Eswatini requires a Tax Compliance Certificate from the person in whose name the vehicle will be registered. The same applies to the registration of a second hand motor vehicle purchased from a dealer or an individual seller.
Businesses tendering for opportunities will also be affected. Any person bidding to provide goods or services to Government, a government institution, local authority, parastatal body, company or other entity for contracts exceeding E20 000.00 must produce a Tax Compliance Certificate.
Shareholders involved in the purchase, sale or transfer of shares in companies must also comply, with the purchaser, seller or transferer required to furnish the certificate.
The regulations extend to immigration related matters. The renewal of a temporary residence permit requires the person seeking renewal to obtain the certificate.
Foreign entertainers and sports personalities planning performances in the Kingdom are included. The local agent, promoter, non resident entertainer or sportsperson seeking to stage any theatrical, musical, sporting or other entertainment activity in Eswatini must present a Tax Compliance Certificate.
Importers registering to bring goods into the country under Customs procedures are required to comply. The obligation falls on the person applying for registration for the importation of goods.
Financial transactions are also under scrutiny. All persons intending to transfer funds from financial institutions, building societies or co operatives in Eswatini to offshore banks and investments must first secure the certificate.
In addition, individuals required by law or organisational policy to furnish proof of tax compliance must present a valid certificate. Executors responsible for distributing a deceased estate are equally required to obtain the document before proceeding with distribution.
The revenue body has made access to the online TCC system available through a QR code published with the notice. For assistance, taxpayers may contact the ERS Service Centre on 2406 4050, email info@ers.org.sz or call 7606 3735.
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