NamRA Extends Tax Return Submission Deadline to 31 October 2025

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The Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA) has granted taxpayers more time to submit returns affected by changes to section 21 of the Income Tax Act, 1981. All taxpayers impacted by the amended section 21, which limits the setting-off of assessed losses carried forward from previous years. This gives qualifying taxpayers and their accountants extra time to adjust calculations, ensure compliance, and avoid late submission penalties.

What’s changed?

• The deadline for certain returns has been extended to 31 October 2025.

• This applies to returns that were originally due on:

  • 31 July 2025

  • 31 August 2025

  • 30 September 2025

• The extension is due to system readiness requirements following the law change.

What Section 21 means

Section 21 sets rules for offsetting prior-year losses against current income:

• You can only offset up to N$1 million or 80% of taxable income (whichever is greater).

• Losses can generally only be carried forward for 5 years (or 10 years for mining, petroleum, and green hydrogen businesses).

• In some cases, losses can only be offset against income from the same trade (ring-fencing rules).

The Next Steps

• Confirm if your return is affected by the amended Section 21 limits.

• Prepare and submit your return by 31 October 2025.

• Contact NamRA if you are unsure how Section 21 applies to your case.

Read more in the NAMRA Notice here.