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How to Check if Your Business Name is Available at BIPA (2026 Guide)
Thinking of a business name? Learn how to check name availability on the BIPA Namibia portal and more importantly, how to officially reserve it (Form CC8/CM5) before someone else does.
Is your perfect business name actually available?
One of the most frustrating parts of starting a business in Namibia is coming up with a brilliant name, only to find out later that someone else has already registered it.
Every day, hundreds of entrepreneurs visit the Business and Intellectual Property Authority (BIPA) offices in Windhoek to reserve names. But did you know you can do a preliminary check from the comfort of your home?
In this guide, we will walk you through exactly how to check name availability using the BIPA online portal, and crucially why seeing “Available” on a screen isn’t enough to protect your brand.
Step 1: Access the BIPA Enterprise Search
You do not need to log in or create an account just to search for a name. The BIPA public search is open to everyone.
- Go to the official BIPA Website.
- Look for the “Search” tab.
Step 2: The “Wildcard” Search Trick
Many people make the mistake of searching for their exact name. If you search for “Windhoek Logistics,” the system might say “No results,” making you think it’s free. But if “Windhoek Logistics & Transport” exists, your name will be rejected later for being “confusingly similar.”
Pro Tip: Use the percentage sign (%) as a wildcard.
- Instead of searching for:
Namibia Solar Solutions - Search for:
Namibia Solar %
This will show you everything that starts with “Namibia Solar,” helping you avoid a rejection letter later.
Step 3: Understanding the Status
When the search results appear, look at the “Status” column. This tells you if the name is truly taken.
- Business / Active: The name is taken. You cannot use it.
- Reserved: Someone has booked this name (Form CC8/CM5) but hasn’t registered the company yet. You still cannot use it.
- Dereferenced / Final Deregistration: The company is closed. You might be able to take this name, but it requires a special application.
- No Results Found: Good news! This usually means the name is available.
Search for a business name using the tool below:
⚠️ The “Online Search” Trap (Read This Before You Celebrate)
Here is the part most entrepreneurs miss: Searching online does NOT reserve the name.
The BIPA portal is just a database. Seeing “No Results” means the name is free right this second. It does not stop someone else (or a competitor) from walking into the BIPA office 10 minutes later and registering it.
To legally own the name, you must file an official Application for Reservation of Name.
- For Close Corporations (CC): You must file Form CC8.
- For Companies (Pty Ltd): You must file Form CM5.
This reservation costs N$75 and is valid for 60 days. If you don’t file these forms, your online search means nothing.
Skip the Queue: Let Us Reserve It For You
Don’t want to risk losing your name while figuring out the paperwork?
At Tumascho Services, we are at the BIPA offices in Windhoek every single morning. We can manually lodge your Name Reservation application (CC8 or CM5) to ensure your brand is locked in immediately.
What we handle for you:
- ✅ We conduct a professional “Conflict Search” to ensure your name won’t be rejected.
- ✅ We draft and submit the CC8/CM5 forms physically at BIPA.
- ✅ We deliver your approved Name Reservation Certificate (Form CC9/CM6) directly to your inbox.
Don’t let your business idea stay just an idea. Secure your name today.
👉 Click here to view our Registration Packages (Includes Name Reservation)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much does a Name Reservation cost at BIPA?
The statutory government fee is N$75. However, if you hire an agent to handle the queuing and paperwork, there will be a service fee added.
How long is a reserved name valid?
A name reservation is valid for 60 days. If you do not register your business within that time, you can apply for an extension, but you must pay the fee again.
Can I trade with just a Reserved Name?
No. A Name Reservation Certificate is not a trading license. It simply prevents others from using that name while you prepare your Founding Statement (CC1) or Memorandum of Association.
Do I need a lawyer to reserve a name?
No, you can do it yourself or use a registered agent like BIPARegistration.com. Using an agent is often faster because we know exactly which names get rejected (e.g., names that are “offensive,” “misleading,” or implied government affiliation).
Ready to start?