Galle, a major commercial and tourism hub in Sri Lanka, is an ideal location to start a business. Whether you’re opening a hotel, restaurant, retail store, export business, or service company, registering your business is the first step to operating legally in Galle.

This guide will walk you through the business registration process in Galle, ensuring that you meet all legal requirements and establish a successful business.

Why Register Your Business in Galle?

✅ Legal Compliance – Ensures your business is legally recognized and avoids penalties.
✅ Credibility – A registered business is more trusted by customers, suppliers, and investors.
✅ Tax Compliance – Helps you obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) for tax purposes.
✅ Access to Financial Services – Banks require business registration documents to provide loans and business accounts.

Let’s go through the step-by-step process of business registration in Galle.

Step 1: Choose Your Business Structure

The first step in registering a business is selecting the right business structure. The main types of business structures in Sri Lanka are:

1. Sole Proprietorship

  • Owned and operated by a single individual.
  • Simple and cost-effective to set up.
  • The owner is personally responsible for all business liabilities.

2. Partnership

  • A business owned by two or more individuals.
  • Profits and liabilities are shared.
  • A partnership agreement is required to define responsibilities and profit-sharing.

3. Private Limited Company (Pvt Ltd)

  • A separate legal entity from its owners.
  • Provides limited liability protection to shareholders.
  • Requires at least one director and one shareholder.
  • Involves more documentation than sole proprietorships and partnerships.

Your business structure will determine taxation, liability, and management processes.

Step 2: Reserve Your Business Name

Once you have chosen your business structure, the next step is reserving a unique business name.

How to Reserve Your Business Name in Galle?

  • Check for Name Availability → Search the Registrar of Companies (ROC) website or visit the Galle District Secretariat.
  • Submit Name Reservation Application → Once approved, you will receive a Business Name Reservation Certificate, which is valid for three months.

Having a unique business name enhances branding and helps avoid legal disputes.

Step 3: Register Your Business

After securing your business name, you must officially register your business. The process depends on your chosen business structure.

Where to Register?

🔹 Sole Proprietorships & Partnerships → Register at the Galle Divisional Secretariat.
🔹 Private Limited Companies (Pvt Ltd) → Register with the Registrar of Companies in Colombo.

Required Documents for Business Registration in Galle

🔹 For Sole Proprietorships & Partnerships:

  • Business Name Reservation Certificate
  • National Identity Card (NIC) or Passport Copy
  • Proof of Business Address
  • Partnership Agreement (if applicable)

🔹 For Private Limited Companies (Pvt Ltd):

  • Business Name Reservation Certificate
  • Articles of Association
  • Company Registration Form (Form 1)
  • Details of Directors and Shareholders
  • Proof of Business Address

Once submitted, your application will be processed, and upon approval, you will receive a Certificate of Registration.

Step 4: Obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN)

After business registration, the next step is applying for a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) from the Inland Revenue Department (IRD).

Steps to Obtain TIN in Galle:

1️⃣ Visit the Inland Revenue Department in Galle or apply online.
2️⃣ Provide the following documents:

  • Business Registration Certificate
  • National ID or Passport Copy
  • Proof of Business Address
  • Completed Tax Registration Form

After processing, you will receive your TIN, which is required for tax filings.

Step 5: Obtain Business Licenses and Permits

Depending on the type of business, you may need licenses or permits from local authorities in Galle.

Common Licenses and Permits:

  • Retail Business → Trade License from the Galle Municipal Council.
  • Food Business → Health and Hygiene Certificate from the local health department.
  • Tourism Business → Approval from the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA).
  • Manufacturing Business → Environmental permits if using chemicals or producing waste.

Visit the Galle Divisional Secretariat to confirm the permits required for your business.

Step 6: Open a Business Bank Account

Once your business is registered, the next step is opening a business bank account to manage transactions professionally.

Documents Required to Open a Business Bank Account in Galle:

  • Business Registration Certificate
  • Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN)
  • Proof of Business Address
  • National ID or Passport Copy

Several banks in Galle, including Bank of Ceylon, People’s Bank, Commercial Bank, and Sampath Bank, offer business banking services.

Step 7: Stay Compliant with Local Laws

Once your business is operational, it’s crucial to stay compliant with Sri Lankan regulations.

✅ Tax Filing → File annual taxes with the Inland Revenue Department.
✅ Business License Renewal → Ensure business licenses and permits are renewed as required.
✅ Labor Laws → If you hire employees, comply with labor laws regarding wages, working hours, and benefits.
✅ Financial Records → Maintain proper accounting records for audits and tax filing.

Staying compliant ensures the smooth operation of your business.

Conclusion

Registering a business in Galle is an essential step in establishing a legally compliant and successful business. By following this step-by-step guide, you will meet Sri Lanka’s regulatory requirements while laying the groundwork for growth.

From choosing a business structure to obtaining licenses, permits, and a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), each step is critical to your business success.

🚀 Take the first step today and register your business in Galle to become part of Sri Lanka’s thriving economy!