How to get a KCCA trading licence in Kampala (online via eCitie)

If you sell goods or services from a shop, office or other premises in Kampala, you need a trading licence from the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA). Since KCCA's "Trade Order" enforcement started in February 2026, officers are checking shops, and businesses without licences risk closure.

Who needs a trading licence?

Any business listed under the Trade Licensing Act that trades from premises, for example shops, salons, pharmacies, garages, restaurants, hardware stores and offices.

Usually exempt: traders inside gazetted markets, people selling agricultural produce, and handicraft businesses run from home.

How to apply online (KCCA eCitie)

Go to the KCCA eCitie portal (ecitie2.kcca.go.ug).
Register for a COIN (your KCCA customer number) as an individual or a company.
Fill in the Trading Licence application: business type, location and premises details.
Submit. You get an application reference number.
A PRN (payment reference number) is generated for the fee.
Pay the PRN at a KCCA partner bank or by mobile money (see below).
Log in again, open Trading License Application List and print your licence.

KCCA may ask you to take the printed form and attachments (e.g. a business registration certificate or National ID) to your KCCA division office. KCCA's guide says to do this within 10 days.

How much is a trading licence?

The fee depends on two things:

Business type. A pharmacy pays more than a repair garage.
Location grade. Kampala is divided into 4 grades; central, busy areas (Grade I) pay the most.

Fees come from the national schedule (Statutory Instrument No. 1 of 2017). Examples reported for that schedule:

Business	Grade I	Grade IV
Motorcycle/generator repair garage	UGX 112,500	UGX 24,000
Pharmacy	UGX 600,000	UGX 126,000

These are indicative. Your exact fee appears on your PRN, so check it there.

How to pay with mobile money

MTN: dial *165# → Payments → Fees & Taxes → KCCA → enter the PRN → confirm with your PIN.
Or pay at any KCCA-designated bank with the PRN.

When to renew and penalties

The licence is valid for 12 months from the date it is issued. Renew before it expires.
Trading without a licence can lead to closure of your premises and prosecution under the Trade Licensing Act.

Outside Kampala? Trading licences are issued by your municipal council, town council or district/sub-county using the same national grades. Visit the council's revenue office.

KCCA call centre: 0800 299 000 (toll-free).

Frequently asked questions

Can I apply for a KCCA trading licence online?

Yes, on the KCCA eCitie portal. Register for a COIN, apply, pay the PRN and print your licence.

Do market vendors need a trading licence?

Traders inside gazetted markets are generally exempt. They pay market dues instead.

How long is a trading licence valid?

Twelve months from the date of issue.