Businesses change their registered name for many reasons — a rebrand, a merger, a new direction or simply a name that no longer fits. Under the Companies and Other Business Entities Act [Chapter 24:31] a company can change its name, but it is a formal process with the Registrar, not just a new logo.
Step 1: Check the new name is available
The new name goes through the same name search as a new company. It will be refused if it is identical or too close to an existing name, misleading, offensive, or suggests government patronage without consent. Have two or three options ready.
Step 2: Approve the change internally
The owners must approve the change. A public company passes a special resolution and files it with the Registrar. A private company’s members approve the change by resolution, and the company then needs the Registrar’s written approval.
Step 3: File with the Registrar
The resolution and supporting documents are lodged with the Registrar of Companies. Once approved, the Registrar enters the new name in the register and the change becomes official.
Step 4: Publish the change
The Act requires notice of the change of name to be published in the Government Gazette and in newspapers. Budget for this cost and time.
Let us handle the name change
Name search, resolutions, Registrar filing and publication — managed for you, with a checklist of everything to update afterwards.
What the change does — and doesn’t — affect
A change of name does not create a new company. The company keeps the same registration, rights and obligations, and any legal proceedings by or against it carry on under the new name. Contracts remain valid.
Your after-change checklist
- ZIMRA — update your TaRMS master data so tax documents, including your tax clearance, show the new name
- Bank — update account names, cheque books and card details
- NSSA — update your employer record
- PRAZ — update your supplier registration so tenders match your certificate
- Contracts and invoices — notify customers and suppliers in writing
- Licences and permits — local authority and sector licences
- Branding — signage, letterheads, website, email signatures, vehicles and uniforms
- Online profiles — Google Business Profile, Facebook, LinkedIn and directories
Common mistakes
- Rebranding before approval. Print nothing until the Registrar has approved the name.
- Forgetting ZIMRA. A mismatch between your company name and ZIMRA records can delay your tax clearance.
- Using only a trading name. A trading name on signage does not change the registered name — invoices and contracts must show the registered name.
Frequently asked questions
Does a name change affect my registration number?
No. The company keeps its registration and history; only the name changes.
Can I keep using the old name for a while?
Once the change is registered, use the new name on official documents. Telling clients that you were ‘formerly known as’ the old name for a period is fine.
How long does it take?
It depends on the name search, the Registrar’s approval and publication. Starting with a strong, clearly available name avoids the most common delay.
This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Rules and fees change — confirm the current position with the relevant authority or ask us before you act.