Did you want to know how to Process Tax Clearance for a New Company in Nigeria? If yes, this guide is for you.

Starting a new company in Nigeria is exciting — but before you can fully operate or bid for contracts, one crucial compliance step awaits you: obtaining a Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC).

In 2025, with Nigeria’s evolving tax laws and digital compliance systems, having a valid TCC is more important than ever. Whether you plan to open a corporate bank account, secure a government contract, or apply for a loan, your TCC is proof that your company is tax compliant.

This guide by Skypro Professional Services, a leading tax consulting firm in Nigeria, explains how to process tax clearance for a new company step-by-step, the documents you’ll need, and how to avoid common pitfalls.

Check out: A Guide to Tax Compliance for Small Businesses in Nigeria: Deadlines, Penalties, and Effective Management

What Is a Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC)?

A Tax Clearance Certificate is an official document issued by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) confirming that a company has fulfilled all tax obligations for a given period — usually the past three years.

For newly registered businesses, a Provisional Tax Clearance is issued, confirming that your company has no outstanding liabilities since incorporation.

In simple terms:

Your TCC is your company’s clean bill of tax health.

Why a New Company Needs a Tax Clearance Certificate

Even as a newly registered company, obtaining your TCC is vital for several reasons:

• ✅ To open or maintain a corporate bank account
• ✅ To bid for government or private contracts
• ✅ To register with regulatory bodies (like CAC or SON)
• ✅ To apply for business loans or grants
• ✅ To demonstrate compliance and avoid penalties

Without a valid TCC, your company may face delays in transactions or risk being flagged for non-compliance.

Requirements for Obtaining a Tax Clearance Certificate in Nigeria

Before applying, ensure you have the following documents ready:

1. Certificate of Incorporation (CAC)
2. Tax Identification Number (TIN) — obtainable from FIRS or through Skypro’s support
3. Business Address and Contact Details
4. Directors’ Information (valid IDs and BVN)
5. Audited Accounts or Financial Statements (if available)
6. Evidence of Tax Payments or Returns (for older companies)
7. Completed TCC Application Form

Tip: If your company was registered less than one year ago, you can apply for a Provisional TCC using incorporation details and a zero-liability declaration.

Step-by-Step Process for Getting a TCC in 2025

Here’s the latest simplified process to obtain your Tax Clearance Certificate:

Step 1: Register with FIRS and Obtain Your TIN

Every company must first have a Tax Identification Number (TIN). If you don’t have one yet, Skypro can assist with your TIN registration and verification.

Step 2: File Your Annual Returns

Even if you haven’t started trading, you must file a nil tax return showing that the business has not earned income yet.

Step 3: Apply for TCC via the FIRS Office or Online Portal

Visit the nearest FIRS tax office or apply through the FIRS TaxPro Max portal. Complete the TCC form and attach supporting documents.

Step 4: FIRS Review and Verification

The FIRS will review your documents, verify your TIN, and check for any unpaid taxes.

Step 5: Approval and Collection

Once approved, your TCC will be issued electronically. You can print it from the FIRS portal or collect it at your tax office.

How Long Does It Take to Get a TCC?

The processing time typically takes 1–2 weeks, depending on how complete your documentation is and the responsiveness of your assigned FIRS office.

However, errors like mismatched TIN details or missing documents can delay approval, which is why professional support from a firm like Skypro Professional Services can make the process faster and stress-free.

Common Reasons for Tax Clearance Delay or Rejection

• ❌ Incomplete or incorrect documentation
• ❌ Unpaid company income tax or VAT liabilities
• ❌ Inactive TIN or inconsistent company address
• ❌ Late filing of annual returns
• ❌ Lack of proof of payment for previous taxes

Skypro helps clients resolve pending issues with FIRS and ensures all your filings align with current compliance rules before submission.

How Skypro Professional Services Can Help

At Skypro Professional Services, we understand the challenges businesses face in meeting Nigeria’s complex tax compliance requirements.

Our tax experts help clients:

• Process TCC applications and renewals
• Resolve tax queries with FIRS
• File company income tax and VAT returns
• Obtain TIN and handle post-incorporation filings
• Maintain compliance to avoid penalties

With over 15 years of combined experience in tax consulting, accounting, and compliance, Skypro simplifies the entire process — so you can focus on running your business.

Conclusion: How to Process Tax Clearance for a New Company in Nigeria

Obtaining a Tax Clearance Certificate is not just a legal obligation — it’s a key business asset that enhances your credibility and unlocks opportunities.

By following the steps above and partnering with experts like Skypro Professional Services, you can complete your tax clearance process quickly, accurately, and without unnecessary stress.

✅ Need help obtaining your Tax Clearance Certificate in Nigeria?
Let Skypro Professional Services handle it for you — fast, compliant, and hassle-free.

info@skyproservices.com.ng or +2349064646156