
Company Formation in Bahrain | Setting up a company in Bahrain
10.Dec.2024Establishing a company in Bahrain is the perfect opportunity for entrepreneurs and investors to expand in the Middle East. With 100% foreign ownership, no corporation or income tax, and a streamlined registration process, Bahrain provides a business-friendly environment supported by robust infrastructure.
At Levant BMS, we specialize in comprehensive solutions for company formation, guiding you from initial free expert legal advice consultation to full-fledged operations. Whether you're setting up a limited liability company, joint stock company, investment company, industrial,medical, crypto company or branch office, our expert team ensures a seamless experience tailored to your business needs. Let us help you build a strong foothold in the Gulf region - get started today!
Why Bahrain for Business Setup?
1. 100% Foreign Ownership
Enjoy complete control of your business, with no ownership restrictions in most sectors. Bahrain is a gateway to lucrative markets in the GCC and beyond.
2. Tax Advantages
Bahrain boasts zero corporate tax, no personal income tax, and exemptions on VAT in certain zones, allowing your business to maximize profits.
3. Strategic Gulf Location
Situated at the heart of the Gulf, Bahrain connects you to major trade routes and provides access to neighbouring GCC markets.
4. Robust Business Infrastructure
Bahrain offers robust legal- framework, advanced communication networks, world-class transportation, and financial systems to support businesses of all sizes.
5. Free Trade Agreements
With FTAs with countries like the USA, Bahrain simplifies international trade, making it easier to expand your global reach.
Our Comprehensive Services
At Levant BMS, we offer a complete suite of business formation services designed to meet your unique needs.LevantBMS is uniquely position to offer you free expert legal advice being led by an expert legal professional who has more than 30 years of transactional legal experience in KSA,UK and Bahrain.
1. Company Formation and Registration
We assist with every step of the registration process, including:
- Reserving your trade name.
- Preparing and notarizing the Memorandum of Association (MOA).
- Submitting applications to the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Tourism (MOICT).
- Submitting applications to the Central Bank of Bahrain (the CBB) and obtaining approvals for your regulated company
2. Business Setup Support
Our team helps you navigate regulatory requirements such as:
- Security Clearance: Documentation and approvals.
- Registered Office: Assistance in finding a compliant office space.
- Capital Deposit: Guidance for opening a corporate bank account.
3. Legal and Compliance Assistance
We ensure your business adheres to all local regulations, including:
- VAT registration with the National Taxation Authority.
- Compliance with the General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI).
4. Licensing and Permits
Support in acquiring the necessary licenses for your business activities:
- Commercial, industrial, financial or professional licenses.
- Special permits for specific industries like industrial, medical, investment firms, crypto and manufacturing.
5. Investor Residency and Visas
Facilitate residency permits for investors, directors, and employees to simplify your operational setup.
Types of Companies You Can Register in Bahrain
- Limited Liability Company (WWL)
- Ideal for SMEs, can be owned by one person or more up to 50 shareholders and offers limited liability.
- No minimum capital requirements
- Joint Stock Company
- Designed for large-scale enterprises and can issue public shares.
- Minimum Capital: BD 250,000
Specialized companies
- Investment company Category 1,2, 3 and 4
- Crypto companies Category 1,2,3,4
- Branch Office
A branch of a foreign company is ideal for international expansion without creating a new entity.
- Holding Company
Created to manage assets or subsidiaries, ensuring a strategic investment approach.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up a Company in Bahrain
Step 1: Obtain Security Clearance
Required documents include:
- Clear copies of passports
- Signed KYC forms
- Authorization letters
The Ministry of Interior processes these applications, ensuring compliance with national regulations.
Step 2: Reserve a Commercial Name
The business name must be unique, comply with Bahrain's regulations, and reflect the nature of the business. Avoid political, religious, or generic terms.
Step 3: Register the Company Headquarters
Every company needs a physical or virtual office. Requirements:
- Pre-approval office/shop photos
- Lease agreement
- EWA (Electricity and Water Authority) approval
Step 4: Draft and Notarize the Memorandum of Association (MOA)
The MOA (the Deed of Association) outlines the company's structure, including objectives, capital, and shareholders. The Ministry of Justice must notarize it.
Step 5: Open a Corporate Bank Account
Deposit company capital into a Bahraini bank. Key documents:
- Bank statement for owners
- Financial projections
- Supporting business documents
Step 6: Obtain Approval from MOICT
The Ministry of Industry and Commerce reviews and approves all legal and financial documents for company registration.
Step 7: Finalize Registration with Government Authorities
Register with:
- The Labor Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) for visas
- The General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI) for employee welfare
Common FAQs About Company Formation in Bahrain
1. What is the minimum capital requirement for company registration in Bahrain?
There are no minimum capital requirements for most legal entities such as limited liability company whether owned by one person or more. There is, however, a minimum capital requirement for certain entities such as shareholding companies, investment companies and crypto companies.
2. Can a foreigner own 100% of a company in Bahrain?
Yes, 100% foreign ownership is allowed in most sectors.
3. How long does it take to register a company in Bahrain?
The process typically takes three to four weeks, depending on the business structure and approvals required.
4. Do I need a physical office in Bahrain?
Yes, a registered office address is mandatory, either as a separate office or as shared place in a Business Centre.
5. Are there tax benefits for businesses in Bahrain?
Bahrain offers a tax-free environment, with no corporate or personal income taxes.
6. Can I open a corporate bank account remotely?
No, all banks require the physical presence of company shareholders.
7. What are the key documents required for registration?
- Memorandum of Association
- Shareholder and director IDs
- Registered office address proof
- Capital deposit certificate
Key Features of Business Support in Bahrain
- Streamlined Approvals: The Sijilat portal is used to submit and track documents efficiently.
- Investor Residency: Special visas for business owners and their families.
- Free Trade Agreements: Access to global markets like the USA and GCC nations.
Benefits of Choosing Levant BMS
Expert Guidance: Years of experience in business setup across Bahrain.
Time Efficiency: We streamline processes to minimize delays.
Compliance Focused: Ensure full adherence to Bahrain's legal and regulatory framework.
End-to-End Support: From initial consultation to post-setup assistance.
Free expert legal advice
Get Started Today!
Take the first step towards establishing your business in Bahrain with Levant Business Management Services. Our expert team ensures a smooth and hassle-free company formation process.
Contact Us Today