Obtaining a SACCO licence in Uganda is a legal requirement for any Savings and Credit Cooperative Society offering financial services. The process is regulated by the Uganda Microfinance Regulatory Authority (UMRA) under the Tier 4 Microfinance and Money Lenders Act 2016. Before applying, a SACCO must first be registered as a cooperative under the Cooperative Societies Act.
A licensed SACCO gains government recognition, legal protection, and public trust—key factors that support long-term sustainability.
Procedure for Obtaining a SACCO Licence in Uganda
- Confirm Registration:
Ensure your SACCO is officially registered under the Cooperative Societies Act. - Prepare Documentation:
Gather all background information, financial data, and operational plans required by UMRA. - Complete the Application Form:
Obtain and fill the prescribed application form from UMRA. - Attach Supporting Documents:
Include the following:- Certified certificate of registration
- Business plan
- Credit and lending policies
- Organizational structure and management details
- Pay Prescribed Fees:
Submit the non-refundable UGX 50,000 application fee and keep your payment receipt. - Submit Application:
Deliver the completed form, supporting documents, and payment slip to the Finance Officer in charge of SACCO Registration. - Processing & Collection:
Applications are reviewed within 21 days. If approved, the SACCO licence certificate is issued by UMRA.
Required Documents
Applicants must attach:
- Certified copy of registration under the Cooperative Societies Act
- Certified TIN certificate
- Certified Memorandum and Articles of Association showing a minimum core capital of UGX 5 million
- Official notification of registered office and branches
- Certified national IDs and certificates of good conduct for all directors and the company secretary
- Business plan, lending policies, and interest-rate structure
- Proof of payment of the licence application fee
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a SACCO licence in Uganda, a society must:
- Operate according to cooperative principles
- Promote economic and social interests of its members
- Demonstrate financial capacity and sound governance
Fees Structure
| Fee Type | Amount (UGX) |
|---|---|
| Licence Fee | 2,000,000 |
| Renewal Fee | 2,000,000 |
| Registration Fee | 50,000 |
| Bye-laws (Savings & Credit) | 15,000 |
| Bye-laws (Multi-purpose) | 10,000 |
| Business Name Search | 2,200 |
| Name Reservation | 20,000 |
Payment Account: 6000010330 – Barclays Bank IPS Branch
Validity and Processing Time
A SACCO licence is valid for one year and expires on 31 December annually.
Processing time: Maximum 21 days from submission.
Key Instructions
- A SACCO may only provide financial services to its members.
- The SACCO name must include “Savings and Credit Cooperative Society” or “SACCO.”
- Annual fees must be paid promptly to avoid licence cancellation.
- Providing false or misleading information is an offence punishable by fine or imprisonment.
Office Contacts
Uganda Microfinance Regulatory Authority (UMRA)
Rwenzori Towers – Block B, Ground Floor, Plot 6 Nakasero Road, Kampala
P.O. Box 11545, Kampala
📞 +256 417 799 700 | Toll-Free 0800 111 449
✉️ [email protected] / [email protected]
Uganda Cooperative Savings and Credit Union (UCSCU)
Plot 239 Maganjo, Bombo Road, Kampala
📞 +256 414 233 601 | ✉️ [email protected]
Registrar of Cooperative Societies
Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives
Farmers House, Parliament Avenue, Kampala
📞 +256 312 324 000 / +256 414 230 916
Why the SACCO Licence Matters
Holding a SACCO licence in Uganda:
- Ensures legal recognition and compliance with national financial laws
- Boosts member confidence and eligibility for partnerships
- Provides liability protection and continuity even after founders’ exit
- Creates employment and community development opportunities
In summary, obtaining a SACCO licence in Uganda legitimizes your cooperative, builds trust among members, and allows it to safely deliver financial services within regulatory limits.
