Register a Company in Bahrain
Registering a company in Bahrain is hassle-free with Block3 Finance. We ensure that the registration process is smooth, allowing you to focus on more critical aspects of your business.
Bahrain, with its limited natural resources, heavily relies on foreign investment and tourism, making it a welcoming destination for international entrepreneurs and start-ups. The government’s commitment to fostering a pro-business environment creates an attractive landscape for foreign companies.
With our streamlined approach, Block3 Finance provides a seamless experience for your company registration in Bahrain, ensuring that your new business is operational within the expected time frame.
Our Bahrain Company Registration Service Package Includes
Company Registration with the Bahrain Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Tourism (MoICT)
Local Company Secretary and Registered Address
Corporate Bank Account Opening
Annual Accounting and Tax Services
How Long Does It Take to Register a Company in Bahrain and Open a Corporate Bank Account?
At Block3 Finance, we complete your Bahrain company registration within 10 weeks. After receiving the required documents from directors and shareholders, we’ll proceed with checking the availability of your preferred company name and prepare the incorporation documents.
We provide non-travel solutions throughout the registration process, ensuring it is convenient for you. After the setup is completed, we will courier your company’s legal documents, including the Certificate of Incorporation and Memorandum of Association.
Once the company is registered, Block3 Finance will open a corporate bank account for your business within 4 weeks, and you can expect your company to be fully operational within 14 weeks of engaging us.
Can Foreigners Start a Business in Bahrain?
Yes, Bahrain allows 100% foreign ownership of businesses across most sectors, and it permits the establishment of representative offices or branches without requiring a local sponsor or partner.
In 2017, Bahrain expanded its foreign ownership allowances to several new sectors, including tourism, mining, and real estate. By 2019, the government even relaxed ownership restrictions in the oil and gas sector, allowing 100% foreign ownership in specific extraction projects.
Types of Companies in Bahrain
Bahrain offers several types of business structures with distinct features in terms of tax obligations, personal liability protection, ownership, and compliance requirements.
1. Bahrain Shareholding Company (B.S.C.) – Public: This company type is ideal for businesses wishing to be publicly listed on the stock exchange. It offers limited liability protection to shareholders and is subject to stricter compliance regulations. Requirements include:
5 Directors
7 Shareholders
Minimum Share Capital: BHD 1,000,000
Secretary and Local Registered Office
2. Bahrain Shareholding Company (B.S.C.) – Closed: A closed joint-stock company involves a minimum of 2 shareholders and a maximum of 50 shareholders, all responsible for liabilities only to the extent of their shareholding. This structure is suitable for businesses seeking 100% foreign ownership, with a minimum share capital of BHD 250,000.
3. Limited Liability Company (W.L.L.): A W.L.L. can be 100% foreign-owned, with 2 to 50 partners. It requires a minimum share capital of BHD 20,000, and there’s no requirement for a local director.
4. Partnership: Partnerships can be General Partnerships (GP), where partners are personally liable for debts, or Limited Partnerships (LP), where liability is limited to the partner’s contribution.
5. Single Person Company (S.P.C.): An S.P.C. is a fully-owned company with a minimum share capital of BHD 50,000. The owner’s liability is limited to the value of their investment, and there is no requirement for an annual general meeting.
6. Branch of a Foreign Company: A foreign branch of a parent company must comply with Bahrain’s laws but is not a separate legal entity. It is required to have a local registered agent and provide parent company documentation to ASIC annually.
Steps to Register a Company in Bahrain
1. Choose a Suitable Corporate Entity: Our consultants will help you choose the best corporate structure that aligns with your business goals and activities, ensuring compliance with Bahrain’s laws.
2. Reserve a Company Name: We will verify the availability of your preferred company name and reserve it with the Bahrain Commercial Registry.
3. Submit Application for Commercial Registration: The application is submitted to the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Tourism (MoICT) through the SIJILAT portal.
4. Acquire Other Licenses and Approvals: Certain business sectors require additional permits. Block3 Finance will assist in obtaining any necessary approvals based on your business type.
5. Prepare Required Documents for Final Approval: This includes renting a local office address and preparing legal documents such as articles of association and business plans.
6. Open a Corporate Bank Account: We’ll assist with opening a corporate bank account and facilitate KYC procedures remotely.
7. Final Approval from MoICT: Once all documents are submitted, we will secure final approval from the MoICT. You will receive your Certificate of Incorporation and other documents.
8. Tax Registration: We will assist you in registering for a Tax Identification Number (TIN) and VAT registration (if applicable).
Documents Required to Register a Company in Bahrain
Proposed company name
Notarized passport copies of directors and shareholders
Articles and memorandum of association
Description of the business activities
Registered office address details;
Why Register a Company in Bahrain?
Political: Bahrain ranks as the 4th freest economy in the MENA region. It offers a stable political environment and is open to foreign investment.
Economic: Bahrain is ranked highly for ease of doing business and offers a diversified economy, including the finance, tourism, and manufacturing sectors.
Legal: Bahrain permits 100% foreign ownership and has favorable laws for foreign investors, with no corporate income tax in most sectors.
Social: Bahrain has a highly skilled workforce and offers competitive operational costs.
Environmental: Bahrain is improving environmental policies, with sustainable business practices gaining importance.
How Can Block3 Finance Help You Register a Company in Bahrain?
With Block3 Finance, you can rest assured that your Bahrain company registration will be smooth and efficient. We handle everything from company name reservation to incorporation, tax registration, and bank account opening. Our team will ensure full compliance with Bahrain’s regulations, making it easier for you to launch your business without the hassle of administrative tasks.
Timeline for Company Registration in Bahrain
Block3 Finance can complete the entire company registration process within 10 weeks. You can expect to start operating within 14 weeks of engaging us.
Get Started with Company Registration in Bahrain
Contact Block3 Finance today to learn more about how to register a company in Bahrain. Our team will respond within 24 hours.
