Private Limited Company
The most common choice. Can be 100% foreign-owned. Registered with the RJSC.
Company Registration in Bangladesh for Foreigners: A Step-by-Step Guide
Foreign investors can register a wholly owned company in Bangladesh, open a branch or liaison office, or form a joint venture with a local partner. This guide outlines the typical steps. Exact requirements depend on your sector, location (for example, inside an EPZ or economic zone) and business structure.
Common Business Structures for Foreign Investors
Branch Office
Carries out the parent company's business in Bangladesh. Requires BIDA approval.
Liaison / Representative Office
For market research and liaison only, with no commercial income. Requires BIDA approval.
Joint Venture
Shared ownership with a Bangladeshi partner, often used to access local networks and markets.
Typical Steps to Register a Company
-
Name clearance
Reserve your company name with the Registrar of Joint Stock Companies and Firms (RJSC).
-
Prepare documents
Memorandum and Articles of Association, shareholder and director details, passports and parent-company documents (notarised and attested where required).
-
Bank account and capital
Open a temporary bank account and bring in initial paid-up capital as an inward remittance through formal banking channels.
-
Incorporation
Submit the incorporation application to RJSC and receive the Certificate of Incorporation.
-
Trade licence
Obtain a trade licence from the relevant city corporation or local authority.
-
Tax and VAT registration
Obtain an e-TIN from the National Board of Revenue and a VAT Business Identification Number (BIN).
-
BIDA registration and sector permits
Register the investment with BIDA, or with BEZA/BEPZA if located in a zone, and obtain any sector-specific licences.
-
Import/export registration
Obtain an Import Registration Certificate (IRC) and/or Export Registration Certificate (ERC) if you will trade goods.
-
Work permits
Apply for visas and work permits for foreign employees through the relevant authority.
Please note: Timelines and fees vary by case and can change. Bangladesh Venture Hub coordinates each step with licensed local professionals. Contact us for a checklist tailored to your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
A private limited company generally needs at least two shareholders, who can be foreign individuals or companies. 100% foreign ownership is allowed in most sectors.
Many steps can be handled through local representatives with properly attested documents. Visiting helps for bank account opening and site selection.
Requirements differ by structure and purpose, for example where work permits are needed. Ask us for current guidance for your case.
Ready to Explore Bangladesh?
Tell us about your business objectives and we will help you identify the next steps, usually within one business day.
