Foreign Company Registration in Bangladesh

Foreign company registration in Bangladesh allows overseas businesses to legally establish a presence in one of South Asia’s fastest-growing economies. With competitive labor costs, a strong manufacturing and export base, and government support for foreign direct investment (FDI), Bangladesh is an attractive destination for international companies seeking regional expansion.

Foreign companies can register in Bangladesh through approved structures such as branch offices, liaison (representative) offices, or project offices. Each structure comes with specific regulatory approvals, compliance obligations, and operational permissions. This guide explains the process, eligibility, documents, timelines, compliance requirements, and benefits of foreign company registration in Bangladesh.

What is Foreign Company Registration in Bangladesh?

Foreign company registration in Bangladesh refers to the legal process through which a company incorporated outside Bangladesh obtains approval to operate within the country. Such registration is governed by the Companies Act, 1994, and regulated by authorities including:

• Registrar of Joint Stock Companies and Firms (RJSC)

• Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA)

• Bangladesh Bank (in applicable cases)

Foreign companies do not form a separate Bangladeshi legal entity but operate as an extension of the parent company.

Types of Foreign Company Registration in Bangladesh

Branch Office

• Permitted to conduct commercial activities

• Can generate revenue in Bangladesh

• Requires BIDA approval

• Registered with RJSC

Liaison / Representative Office

• Non-commercial activities only

• Market research, promotion, coordination

• No income-generating activities allowed

Project Office

• Set up for executing a specific project

• Valid for project duration only

• Requires government approval

Benefits of Foreign Company Registration in Bangladesh

• Entry into a rapidly growing economy

• No requirement to incorporate a local company

• 100% foreign ownership

• Access to local workforce and suppliers

• Ability to test the market before full incorporation

• Repatriation of profits 

Who Should Opt for Foreign Company Registration?

Foreign company registration in Bangladesh is suitable for:

• Multinational corporations

• Export-oriented businesses

• Infrastructure and project-based companies

• Trading and sourcing companies

• IT and consulting firms

• Businesses exploring market entry without long-term commitment

Eligibility Criteria for Foreign Company Registration in Bangladesh

To register a foreign company in Bangladesh, the following conditions must be met:

• Company must be incorporated outside Bangladesh

• Valid parent company documents

• Approval from BIDA

• Appointment of authorized local representative

• Registered office address in Bangladesh

Documents Required for Foreign Company Registration in Bangladesh

• Certificate of Incorporation of parent company

• Memorandum & Articles of Association

• Board resolution approving Bangladesh registration

• Details of authorized representative

• Passport copy of authorized signatory

• Office address documents in Bangladesh

• Power of Attorney

• Financial statements of parent company

All foreign documents must be notarized and, where required, apostilled or consularized.

Step-by-Step Foreign Company Registration Process in Bangladesh

• Obtain board approval from parent company

• Apply for approval from BIDA

• Secure name clearance from RJSC

• Prepare and submit incorporation documents

• Register branch/liaison/project office with RJSC

• Open local bank account

• Register for Tax Identification Number (TIN)

• VAT registration (if applicable)

• Obtain work permits for foreign employees (if required)

Timeline for Foreign Company Registration in Bangladesh

• BIDA approval: 3–6 weeks

• RJSC registration: 7–10 working days

• Post-registration compliance: 1–2 weeks

Timelines depend on document readiness and regulatory approvals.

Post-Registration Compliance for Foreign Companies

Foreign companies operating in Bangladesh must comply with:

• Annual activity reporting to BIDA

• Income tax filings

• VAT compliance (if applicable)

• Maintenance of books and records

• Renewal of BIDA approval

• Work permit and visa compliance for expatriates

Why Choose YKG Global for Foreign Company Registration in Bangladesh

YKG Global provides complete foreign company registration services in Bangladesh, handling regulatory approvals, RJSC filings, and ongoing compliance. Our team ensures correct structuring, timely approvals, and adherence to local regulations, allowing foreign businesses to operate confidently and compliantly.

With global expertise and deep regulatory understanding, YKG Global acts as a trusted partner for international market entry.

Call us or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation today.

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