The process to set up a Free Zone Enterprise in Itana is as follows:
It typically takes between two to four weeks upon submission of the application package. We are in the process of digitizing the application, reviewing, and registration process to reduce the time required to process the application.
The application package includes the application form, registration documents, feasibility study, and registration fees, which will be submitted as a completed package to NEPZA by the Itana team.
In order to access the required documentation, please fill out this interest form or reach out to our team directly at support@itana.africa.
To process your business license to operate in Itana, we’d need details of your enterprise including:
These details are important for the Nigerian Export Processing Zone Authority (NEPZA), the agency directed to manage free zones in Nigeria to confidently issue a certificate of registration recognizing your business as a Free Zone Enterprise.
No, it is possible to have 100% foreign ownership in the Itana Digital Free Zone.
However, there are select industries, such as oil and gas which require majority Nigerian equity ownership. There are also industries generally prohibited e.g. production of arms and ammunition; production of and dealing in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances; production of military and para-military wears and accoutrement etc.
Yes, NEPZA is the body in charge of regulating Free Zone operations in Nigeria, and Itana is registered as a Free Zone Developer with NEPZA
Yes, when you set up your business in the Itana Digital Free Zone, we’ll assign an address to your business which can be used for all correspondence.
When you successfully incorporate your business in the Itana Digital Free Zone, you get a certificate of registration and an operating license.
The certificate of registration, presented by NEPZA, is a one-time certificate that doesn’t expire. You’ll be required to renew your operating license annually, in order to ensure that your business is compliant with the regulations for operating in the free zone.
Typically, companies incorporated with CAC are subject to Expatriate Quota requirements and must obtain an Expatriate Quota before employing foreign nationals, whereas FZEs have no Expatriate Quota requirements.
Yes, we have our legal support that we work with through the process.
Yes, being registered as an FZE allows you to operate in Nigeria (both within and outside the Free Zone). However, operations outside the Free Zone may be subject to specific customs territory ('mainland Nigeria') tax liabilities and obligations.
