Services

Company Limited by Guarantee

A Company Limited by Guarantee is a type of company formed primarily for non-profit purposes such as charities, associations, NGOs, clubs, and professional bodies.

Unlike profit-making companies, this type of company does not have shareholders or share capital. Instead, it has members (guarantors) who agree to contribute a fixed amount (guarantee) toward the company’s debts if it is wound up.

Key characteristics:

  • Operates for non-profit objectives
  • Profits are reinvested into the organization, not distributed
  • Has a separate legal identity from its members
  • Members have limited liability (only up to the guaranteed amount)

This structure is ideal for organizations focused on social impact, community development, education, religion, or advocacy.

MWK 75,000
Register
1

Pre-Registration Requirements

Before registering a Company Limited by Guarantee on MBRS, the following are required:

A. MBRS Account Creation

All applicants must first create an account on MBRS using:

  • National ID (for Malawian citizens)
  • Foreign Resident Permit (for foreign residents)
  • Passport (for visitor applicants)
  • A valid and active email address

B. Member Requirements

  • At least one or more members (guarantors)
  • Each member must provide identification details
  • Details of Directors [TIN for one is Mandatory ]
  • Company Secretary Details
  • Beneficial ownership information
  • Members agree on a guarantee amount (e.g., MWK 1,000)

C. Company Name Requirements

The name must:

  • Be unique and approved by MBRS
  • Not be misleading or similar to existing entities

D. Required Documents

  • Memorandum of Association (including guarantee clause)
  • Articles of Association
  • Details of members, directors and company secretary
  • Physical address of the organization
  • Description of objectives (must be non-profit in nature)

E. Key Information Needed

  • Company objectives (clear non-profit purpose)
  • Registered office address
  • Details of directors and members

2

Post-Registration Steps

  • Change of company name
  • Change of directors and particulars of directors and company secretary
  • Change of Registered Office or Address For Service
  • Notice to Record a Company as Dormant
  • Remove A Company from the Register
  • Adoption, Alteration or Revocation of Constitution
  • Update beneficial owner
3

Ongoing Compliance

To remain compliant:

  • File annual returns with the Registrar
  • Maintain proper financial and organizational records
  • Ensure activities remain non-profit oriented
  • Notify MBRS of any changes in structure or leadership by making amendments
  • Comply with relevant sector regulations (e.g., NGO requirements if applicable)

Useful Resources

View more
COMPANIES REGULATION 2017
PDF 143 KB Download
Business Registration Act 2012
PDF 283 KB Download
Insolvency Rules 2017
PDF 14.6 MB Download
Insolvency Act 2016
PDF 7.6 MB Download
Trustees Incorporation Act
PDF 604 KB Download
Trademarks Act 2018
PDF 268 KB Download
Protected Names Act
PDF 549 KB Download
PPSR Regulations Supplement
PDF 735 KB Download
Patents
PDF 358 KB Download
PPSR Regulations Final
PDF 426 KB Download
Copyright Act 1989
PDF 403 KB Download
FORM TM 1
DOC 67 KB Download
FORM TM 2
DOCX 82 KB Download
Patents Act 1958
PDF 542 KB Download
Registered Designs Act 1958
PDF 356 KB Download