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Company Formation

Everything you need to set up a business in Bahrain — entity types, registration, and tax implications.

Choose Your Structure

Entity Types in Bahrain

Entity Type Min. Capital Shareholders Foreign Ownership Setup Time
WLL (With Limited Liability) BHD 20,000 2-50 100% 2-3 days
Single Person Company (SPC) BHD 50,000 1 100% 2-3 days
BSC (Closed Joint Stock) BHD 250,000 2-50 100% 5-7 days
Branch Office None Parent company 100% 3-5 days
Sole Proprietorship None 1 Bahraini only 1-2 days
How To Register

5-Step Formation Process

1

Reserve Company Name

Submit name reservation via Sijilat portal. Arabic + English names required. 3-day processing.

2

Draft Memorandum of Association

Prepare MOA defining share structure, directors, activities. Must be notarized in Arabic.

3

Submit CR Application

Apply via Sijilat with MOA, ID documents, address proof, and activity selection (ISIC codes).

4

Open Bank Account & Deposit Capital

Open corporate bank account and deposit minimum capital. Certificate of deposit required for CR issuance.

5

Post-Registration Compliance

Register with GOSI, obtain municipality license, apply for industry-specific permits, and register for VAT if applicable.

Tax Planning

Tax Considerations for New Businesses

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VAT Registration

Register once projected turnover exceeds BHD 37,500 (mandatory) or BHD 18,750 (voluntary). See our VAT guide →

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GOSI & Employment

Register employees within 30 days of hire. Bahraini staff: 20% total contribution. Expats: 4% employer contribution.

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Municipal & Licensing

Annual municipal license (BHD 50-300 depending on activity). 10% municipal fee on commercial property leases.

Ready to Set Up?

We guide you from entity selection through registration to full compliance — all in one engagement.

Start Your Company Journey →