Running a business in Botswana requires more than just managing daily operations—it also involves staying compliant with tax laws. Understanding and meeting tax filing deadlines is crucial for every entrepreneur to avoid penalties, maintain good standing with the Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS), and keep business finances in order. Whether you operate a small start-up or a growing company, knowing these key tax deadlines will help you stay ahead.
For most businesses in Botswana, Value Added Tax (VAT) is one of the most frequently filed taxes. If your business is VAT-registered, you are required to submit VAT returns either monthly or every two months, depending on your registration status. These returns are due 25 days after the end of each tax period. For example, if your VAT period ends in March, the deadline to file and pay is April 25th.
Another critical tax obligation is Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE), which applies if you have employees. Employers are responsible for deducting PAYE from salaries and remitting it to BURS. PAYE returns and payments are due by the 15th of every month following the month in which the salaries were paid. Timely submission is important to avoid interest charges and penalties for late payments.
Botswana entrepreneurs must also take note of the Corporate Income Tax (CIT) deadlines. Companies with a financial year ending in June are required to submit their self-assessment return (ITAS 1) by September 30th of the same year. For companies with other year-ends, the return must be submitted within four months after the end of the financial year. It’s important to note that Part I tax payments are usually due in advance installments—typically in September and March—depending on your estimated income.
For individual entrepreneurs and sole proprietors, the individual income tax return (ITW 10) is another important requirement. The deadline for submitting this annual return is September 30th following the end of the tax year on June 30th. This applies to those who are self-employed or who earn income outside of regular employment.
Late submissions or payments can result in fines, interest charges, or even legal action from BURS. Entrepreneurs are therefore advised to keep proper financial records, seek assistance from qualified accountants, and use the BURS e-services platform to simplify the filing process. The platform allows for the online submission of returns, real-time tracking, and instant confirmations.
Staying informed about tax filing deadlines every Botswana entrepreneur must know is not just about avoiding penalties—it’s also a vital step toward building a sustainable and trustworthy business. By staying compliant, you improve your eligibility for government tenders, investor funding, and long-term growth opportunities.
