If you want to bid on government tenders in Zambia, the ZRA Tax Clearance Certificate is non-negotiable. Without it, your bid will be disqualified — no exceptions. This guide explains exactly what it is, how to get one, and how to make sure yours never lapses.
ZamBiz tracks expiry dates on all your compliance documents and alerts you 30 days before they expire — so you never miss a renewal. Upload your certificates →
What is a ZRA Tax Clearance Certificate?
A Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC) is issued by the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) and confirms that your business or individual tax affairs are in good standing — meaning you have filed your returns and paid any taxes owed.
It is valid for one year from the date of issue. After that, it must be renewed. For most businesses bidding on ZPPA tenders, renewing the TCC annually is a routine compliance requirement.
Who Needs a Tax Clearance Certificate?
- Any business bidding on ZPPA government tenders
- Companies applying for government licenses and permits
- Businesses tendering for services with parastatals and local authorities
- Companies applying for certain bank facilities
- Individuals or companies receiving payments from government
In short — if you do any business with the Zambian government, you need one.
Requirements Before You Apply
ZRA will only issue a Tax Clearance Certificate if your tax affairs are in order. Before applying, make sure:
- You have a valid ZRA TPIN (Tax Payer Identification Number)
- All your tax returns are filed and up to date (Income Tax, VAT if registered, PAYE if you have employees)
- Any outstanding tax balances are paid, or you have an approved payment plan with ZRA
- Your NAPSA contributions are up to date (ZRA cross-checks this)
Common reason for rejection: outstanding PAYE (employee tax) or unfiled returns. Ensure all returns are submitted before applying — even nil returns.
How to Apply — Step by Step
Option 1: Apply Online via ZRA e-Services (Recommended)
- Go to eservices.zra.org.zm
- Log in with your TPIN and password
- Navigate to Tax Clearance → Apply for Tax Clearance
- Complete the application form online
- Submit and wait for ZRA to review your tax position
- If approved, download your certificate directly from the portal
Option 2: Apply at a ZRA Office
- Visit your nearest ZRA office (main offices in Lusaka, Ndola, Kitwe, Livingstone)
- Bring your TPIN certificate and company registration documents
- Complete Form TCC 1 at the counter
- Submit and collect your certificate when ready
How Long Does It Take?
If your tax affairs are fully in order, the online process can be almost instant — sometimes the certificate is generated within minutes. If there are outstanding issues, ZRA will put the application on hold until they are resolved.
Walk-in applications typically take 1–3 business days.
What Does It Cost?
The ZRA Tax Clearance Certificate is free if you apply directly through ZRA. You only pay if you use an agent to handle the application on your behalf.
ZamBiz charges K550 to handle the full Tax Clearance application — verifying your tax position, resolving any outstanding issues, submitting the application, and delivering the certificate to your Document Vault.
Common Reasons for Rejection
- Unfiled tax returns (even nil returns must be submitted)
- Outstanding tax balances with no payment plan
- PAYE not remitted for employees
- VAT returns not filed (if VAT registered)
- TPIN not matching company name on PACRA records
If your application is rejected, ZRA will usually tell you exactly what the issue is. Resolving it and reapplying typically adds 3–5 business days.
How to Renew Your Tax Clearance Certificate
The TCC expires exactly one year after issue. The renewal process is identical to the initial application — you apply through the same ZRA e-Services portal or at a ZRA office.
Do not wait until expiry to renew. If your TCC lapses while a tender is in progress, you risk disqualification. ZamBiz tracks expiry dates and sends you a WhatsApp reminder 30 days before it expires.
Let ZamBiz Handle Your Tax Clearance
We verify your tax position, handle the application and deliver the certificate to your ZamBiz Document Vault. K550 — pay via mobile money.
Order Tax Clearance — K550 →Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an expired Tax Clearance Certificate for a tender?
No. Procurement officers check the validity date on the certificate. An expired TCC will result in disqualification of your bid.
Does a sole trader need a Tax Clearance Certificate?
Yes. Whether you are registered as a Business Name or a Private Limited Company, you need a valid TCC to bid on government tenders.
How long is a Tax Clearance Certificate valid?
12 months from the date of issue. After that, it must be renewed.
What is a TPIN and do I need one first?
A TPIN (Tax Payer Identification Number) is your unique ZRA tax registration number. You must have one before you can apply for a Tax Clearance Certificate. ZamBiz can register you for a TPIN for K450.