How to apply for the Establishment of a Branch (Church/Mosque)

This allows faith-based organizations (FBOs) that wish to establish a branch and obtain an official certificate of establishment. A branch refers to a location where a registered organization—such as a church/Mosque—extends its religious and administrative activities beyond its primary premises.

To qualify, applicants must comply with the legal provisions outlined in Law No. 72/2018 of 31/08/2018 governing faith-based organizations and related regulations. The Certificate of Establishment serves as formal recognition by the Government of Rwanda, authorizing the organization to operate at the specified branch location.

This service is provided by the Ministry of Local Government (MINALOC) through IremboGov

1. What do you need to have before you start applying?

Prepare the following documents:

• A certified copy of the legal personality certificate issued by the Rwanda Governance Board

• A collaboration letter for the 1st time establishment of branch in District or City of Kigali

• A notarized copy of the minutes of the meeting of the supreme governing body of the organization approving the establishment of the branch and its representative

• A valid tax clearance certificate issued by the tax administration

• Proof of payment of social security contributions issued by the organ in charge of social security

• The organizational structure of the branch

• A personal profile of the branch representative (Signed CV)

• A criminal record certificate of the branch representative

• A notarized letter of commitment affirming your acceptance of the responsibilities of the role

• An application letter to establish a branch addressed to the administration of the District or City of Kigali, with a copy to Rwanda Governance Board (written by the legal representative of the mother church)

Conditional attachments:

• A notarized copy of a degree in theology obtained from a recognized higher learning institution or university of a branch representative

• Degree certificate (any degree) + certificate proving the completion of at least 1,200 hours of religious studies from a recognized higher learning institution or university

2. Steps to apply for this service

1. Visit new.irembo.gov.rw and log in to the account

2. Under the “Governance category. Select “Establishment of a branch (church/mosque).”

3. Click apply to start your application.

4. Fill in the applicant details such as identification documents, national ID or passport, contact address, email, and phone number.

5. Enter parent and branch details as prompted

6. Upload the requested attachments in the correct format and size, and click continue to proceed

7. Verify that the information is true, enter a phone number and/or email address, check the verification box, and click Submit. 

8. An application number (c2…..) to track your application status.

4. What to expect after submitting the application

• Step 1: The application is submitted; it will undergo a review by the Rwanda Governance Board in coordination with the district where you intend to establish your church branch. This collaborative review ensures compliance with both national and local requirements.

• Step 2: Once reviewed and approved, the certificate will be attached to this email. You can also download it anytime from IremboGov using your application number.

Important Tips:

• Make sure to provide a valid email address and phone number to track your application.

• Attachments must not exceed 10 MB. If necessary, compress your files before uploading.