Your First 90 Days
Week 1-2: CR Registration
Register via Sijilat. Choose entity type (WLL most common). Select ISIC activity codes carefully — they determine license requirements.
Week 2-4: Bank & GOSI
Open corporate bank account. Register with GOSI if you're hiring. Set up WPS for salary payments from month one.
Month 2: VAT Assessment
Assess if you'll exceed BD 37,500 threshold in 12 months. If yes, register for VAT immediately. Consider voluntary registration for input recovery.
Month 3: Accounting Setup
Choose cloud accounting software. Set up chart of accounts with Bahrain-compliant VAT codes. Establish record-keeping procedures.
Startup-Friendly Tax Facts
Corporate income tax
VAT threshold
Foreign ownership
Startup support grants
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not registering for VAT when exceeding the threshold
- Mixing personal and business expenses
- Forgetting to register with GOSI when hiring
- Using cash payments instead of WPS-compliant bank transfers
- Not keeping proper tax invoices from day one