The first step for a subsidiary or joint venture is to reserve the company name with the RJSC. Foreign applicants apply through the One Stop Service (OSS) portal, and the RJSC checks the name for conflicts and prohibited words. Name clearance, a temporary bank account, incorporation, e-TIN and trade licence can now be filed together as the BanglaBiz Business Starter Package.

Time: Usually within days; BanglaBiz Business Starter Package targets 3 working days for the whole bundle · Fee: BDT 230 including VAT for foreign applicants (Invest Bangladesh FAQ) · Law: Companies Act 1994 (Act XVIII of 1994); Invest Bangladesh FAQ: How do I incorporate a company?

Before incorporation, open a temporary account with an authorised dealer bank and remit the foreign shareholders' capital through banking channels, in proportion to their shareholdings. The bank issues an encashment certificate. Later authorities ask for it again, including Invest Bangladesh for registration, visa recommendations and work permits, and the AD bank for repatriation. Keep the inward remittance advice with it.

Time: Depends on the bank's KYC review; part of the BanglaBiz starter package · Fee: as per schedule · Law: Foreign Exchange Regulation Act 1947; Bangladesh Bank Guidelines for Foreign Exchange Transactions (as amended); Invest Bangladesh FAQ (incorporation steps)

File the memorandum and articles of association, Form I, Form IX, the subscription page and the stamp duty and registration fees through the OSS. Once the RJSC approves, it issues the certificate of incorporation, the certified memorandum and articles, and Form XII listing the directors. Incorporation creates the company but does not by itself allow it to trade, import or employ foreigners.

Time: BanglaBiz Business Starter Package targets 3 working days for the bundle (from a complete file) · Fee: as per schedule (registration fee on authorised capital plus stamp duty and VAT) · Law: Companies Act 1994 (Act XVIII of 1994); Invest Bangladesh FAQ: How do I incorporate a company?

A foreign company that operates through an office, not a subsidiary, needs Invest Bangladesh permission before opening. Apply online through the OSS and then lodge hard copies with the Commercial Wing. Foreign documents must be attested by a Bangladesh mission, the home country's mission in Bangladesh or its apex chamber. An inter-ministerial committee decides. Initial approval is for three years, and renewal must be filed at least two months before expiry.

Time: 16 working days, subject to inter-ministerial committee approval · Fee: BDT 25,000 (new); BDT 10,000 (extension) · Law: Invest Bangladesh Act 2026 (Act No. 104 of 2026); Invest Bangladesh Commercial Offices service checklist

Once Invest Bangladesh grants permission, the office must open a bank account and bring in foreign exchange equivalent to at least USD 50,000 within two months, as its initial establishment cost. The bank's encashment certificate for this inflow is needed again for work permits, visa recommendations and renewal of the office permission, so make the remittance promptly and keep the evidence.

Time: Within 2 months of permission · Fee: Not applicable · Law: Invest Bangladesh FAQ: setting up a branch/liaison/representative/project office; Foreign Exchange Regulation Act 1947

Within 30 days of receiving Invest Bangladesh permission, a branch, liaison, representative or project office must notify Bangladesh Bank through its bank under section 18B of the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act 1947. Invest Bangladesh asks for a copy of this notification when the office applies to extend its permission, so missing the deadline causes trouble at renewal.

Time: Within 30 days of permission · Fee: No fee stated · Law: Foreign Exchange Regulation Act 1947, s.18B; Invest Bangladesh FAQ (office set-up steps)

A foreign company that sets up a place of business in Bangladesh must file its constitutional documents, the list of directors and the names of persons resident in Bangladesh authorised to accept service with the RJSC. Invest Bangladesh requires the application within 30 days of its permission. The RJSC then issues a certificate of filing, and continuing annual filings follow.

Time: Apply within 30 days of permission · Fee: as per schedule · Law: Companies Act 1994, s.379 (Part X, foreign companies); Invest Bangladesh FAQ (office set-up steps)

Every company and every foreign commercial office needs a Taxpayer's Identification Number. You need it for a bank account, trade licence renewal, IRC or ERC, VAT registration and almost every sector licence. Apply on the NBR e-TIN system or through the OSS. Registration carries return and withholding-tax obligations from the start, including tax withheld at source on payments to suppliers and staff.

Time: 3 days via OSS if documents are complete · Fee: Free / as per schedule · Law: Income Tax Act 2023 (Act No. 12 of 2023); Invest Bangladesh FAQ: TIN for a company/foreign commercial office

A trade licence is the local authority's permission to carry on business at a particular address. You need one for each place of business, and it must describe the activity accurately. Dhaka North, Dhaka South and Chattogram city corporations offer the service through the OSS. Other authorities may first require a ward councillor's NOC. The licence is renewed every fiscal year. Inside an EPZ, BEPZA issues the trade licence itself as one of its one-window services, so you do not apply to the local council. In an economic zone or hi-tech park, ask the zone authority whether it issues the licence or the local council does.

Time: Online via OSS for Dhaka North, Dhaka South and Chattogram; otherwise after local inspection · Fee: as per schedule (Model Tax Schedule 2016 for city corporations, plus signboard tax and VAT) · Law: Local Government (City Corporation) Act 2009; City Corporation Model Tax Schedule 2016; Local Government (Pourashava) Act 2009; Local Government (Union Parishad) Act 2009; BEPZA 'Our Services' page (issuance of trade licence)

Register for VAT and obtain a Business Identification Number once turnover exceeds the registration threshold, or from the start if the business imports, exports or carries on another activity listed in the law. Businesses below the threshold enlist for turnover tax. You need the BIN to clear goods through customs, and banks, utilities and licensing authorities increasingly ask for it. Monthly returns follow.

Time: Online; usually within days of a complete application · Fee: Free · Law: Value Added Tax and Supplementary Duty Act 2012, s.4; Invest Bangladesh FAQ: VAT registration

An enterprise inside an EPZ applies to BEPZA, not Invest Bangladesh, for permission to set up an industry. BEPZA accepts Type A (100% foreign), Type B (joint venture, any equity split) and Type C (100% Bangladeshi) investment. After sanction, BEPZA's one-window service handles most operational approvals. Later changes, including new products, share transfers, mergers and changes of ownership, need BEPZA permission.

Time: Varies; BEPZA states many services are same-day · Fee: as per BEPZA schedule · Law: Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority Act 1980, s.12; BEPZA services and 'Why BEPZA' pages

Since 20 August 2026, the economic zone function formerly run by BEZA sits with Invest Bangladesh. A unit in a public or private economic zone gets its project clearance, land lease and zone services through the zone one-stop service, not the ordinary Invest Bangladesh project registration. BEZA's one-stop service covered project clearance, work permits, visa recommendations, import and export permits, building plan approval, NOC for foreign loans, utility connections, fire clearance and boiler registration. BEZA's assets, contracts and records passed to Invest Bangladesh, so leases and allotment letters signed with BEZA continue. Check each private zone developer's own agreement terms. Zones run by BEPZA, such as the BEPZA Economic Zone, follow BEPZA's regime instead.

Time: Varies · Fee: as per schedule · Law: Invest Bangladesh Act 2026 (Act No. 104 of 2026); Invest Bangladesh press release, 23 August 2026; Bangladesh Economic Zones Act 2010 and BEZA one-stop service (as continued under Invest Bangladesh)

IT and IT-enabled businesses in a government or private hi-tech park, software technology park or IT training centre deal with BHTPA. BHTPA was not merged into Invest Bangladesh. Its One-Stop Service covers name clearance, project registration and clearance, land or space allotment, local purchase and local sales permits and environmental clearance processing.

Time: Varies · Fee: as per BHTPA schedule · Law: Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority Act 2010 (Act No. 8 of 2010)

The National Industrial Policy 2022 treats certain sectors as controlled. Invest Bangladesh asks for an NOC from the ministry, directorate or department concerned before it registers a project in such a sector. In practice, regulated activities also need the full sector licence listed below. Check the current controlled-sector list for your activity early, because registration waits for the NOC.

Time: Varies by ministry · Fee: as per schedule · Law: National Industrial Policy 2022; Invest Bangladesh Foreign & Joint Venture Projects service checklist

Manufacturing and service projects outside the zones register with Invest Bangladesh. Units in an economic zone get project clearance through the zone one-stop service instead (see the economic zone item). Registration is optional for trading businesses but is the gateway to incentives, IRC recommendations, import permits, royalty and foreign-loan approvals and aftercare. The company must already be incorporated and its office and factory site secured. Later changes, such as to capacity, shareholders or machinery, must be registered as amendments.

Time: 1 day from a complete file (amendments: 3 working days) · Fee: BDT 5,000 (up to Tk 10 crore), 10,000 (to Tk 25 crore), 25,000 (to Tk 50 crore), 50,000 (to Tk 100 crore), 100,000 (above), plus 15% VAT · Law: Invest Bangladesh Act 2026 (Act No. 104 of 2026); Invest Bangladesh Foreign & Joint Venture Projects service checklist

A foreign investor can bring capital machinery into Bangladesh without opening a letter of credit, and its value counts as equity investment. Invest Bangladesh recommends the import permit through the OSS on the basis of the registration, commercial invoice, shipping documents, packing list and certificate of origin. Used or reconditioned machinery also needs a survey report.

Time: 3 working days from a complete file · Fee: No fee (Invest Bangladesh) · Law: Invest Bangladesh FAQ: recommendation for Import Permit (IP); Imports and Exports (Control) Act 1950; Import Policy Order (current)

Borrowing in foreign currency to import capital goods needs Invest Bangladesh approval before it is drawn. This covers commercial loans, buyer's credit and supplier's credit for a new project, a replacement or an expansion. A scrutiny committee reviews the proposal. Foreign loans used only as working capital are not permitted on this route. The Bangladesh Bank reporting rules also apply through the AD bank.

Time: At least 15 days, depending on committee meetings · Fee: Processing fee BDT 5,000 to 100,000 by loan size, plus 15% VAT (payable on approval) · Law: Invest Bangladesh FAQ: approval for a long-term foreign loan; Foreign Exchange Regulation Act 1947

Garment and knitwear exporters outside the EPZs normally join BGMEA or BKMEA. Membership is a prerequisite for the IRC, ERC and bonded warehouse files. These associations issue the Utilisation Declaration (UD) that customs and banks use to match duty-free imported fabric and accessories to export orders. Without membership and UDs, the bonded import model does not work in practice.

Time: Per application · Fee: as per association schedule · Law: Trade Organisations Act 2022; Customs Act 2023 (bonded imports); Invest Bangladesh IRC checklist (membership certificate)

A new industrial unit gets its first Import Registration Certificate on an ad hoc basis, on Invest Bangladesh's recommendation, with an import entitlement tied to its production capacity. The recommendation is sent to the CCI&E electronically. Second and third ad hoc certificates, and conversion to a regular IRC, follow a factory inspection. Regularisation is recommended once 70% of the ad hoc entitlement has been used.

Time: 10 working days from a complete file · Fee: No fee (Invest Bangladesh) · Law: Invest Bangladesh FAQ: ad hoc IRC recommendation; Invest Bangladesh Foreign & Joint Venture Projects service checklist; Importers, Exporters and Indentors (Registration) Order 1981

Any business that imports in its own name must hold an IRC. Industrial importers hold an industrial IRC, issued first on an ad hoc basis, and traders hold a commercial IRC. Banks will not open import letters of credit without one. Applicants usually need membership of the relevant chamber or trade association. The certificate must be renewed, and its import value band must match your actual volume. In an economic zone, the zone one-stop service issues import and export permits; confirm whether a CCI&E certificate is also needed.

Time: Online via OSS; varies · Fee: as per schedule (by import value band) · Law: Imports and Exports (Control) Act 1950; Importers, Exporters and Indentors (Registration) Order 1981; Import Policy Order (current)

Exporting goods in the company's own name needs an ERC, and banks will not handle export LCs or proceeds without one. Exporters usually also need membership of the relevant trade body, such as BGMEA or BKMEA for garments, and register on the Bangladesh Single Window for customs. Inside an EPZ, BEPZA's export permits take the place of this route. Keep the certificate renewed. In an economic zone, the zone one-stop service issues import and export permits; confirm whether a CCI&E certificate is also needed.

Time: Online via OSS; varies · Fee: as per schedule · Law: Imports and Exports (Control) Act 1950; Importers, Exporters and Indentors (Registration) Order 1981

An export-oriented manufacturer outside an EPZ can import raw materials and packaging duty-free under a customs bond. It must hold a bonded warehouse licence and account for every input against its exports. Invest Bangladesh lists the bonded warehouse facility among the incentives for registered industries. The licence carries strict record-keeping and audit obligations, and misuse attracts penalties under the Customs Act.

Time: Varies; includes site inspection · Fee: as per schedule · Law: Customs Act 2023 (Act No. 57 of 2023); Invest Bangladesh FAQ (fiscal incentives: bonded warehouse facility)

Applies only if the company will pay royalties, franchise fees or technical assistance or know-how fees abroad. A registered industrial enterprise needs Invest Bangladesh approval of the agreement before it remits these fees. The file includes the technology transfer agreement, a board resolution, audited accounts, a certified tax return and clearance, and invoices. The service went fully online in January 2026, and Invest Bangladesh reports approvals in 7 to 10 working days.

Time: 7-10 working days online (press release, 6 May 2026); service checklist states up to 28 days · Fee: BDT 50,000 per year plus 15% VAT · Law: Invest Bangladesh Foreign & Joint Venture Projects service checklist; Foreign Exchange Regulation Act 1947

Only an enterprise with BEPZA permission can be allotted land or factory space in a zone. BEPZA offers serviced plots on a renewable 30-year lease and Standard Factory Buildings rented for 2 to 10 years, renewable, with utilities connected. Allotted land may be mortgaged to raise bank finance with BEPZA's consent. The lease terms then govern construction and use.

Time: Varies · Fee: as per BEPZA rent and tariff schedule · Law: Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority Act 1980, ss.7(b) and 13; BEPZA 'Why BEPZA' page

Outside the zones, a company that buys land, or leases premises for more than one year, must register the deed with the Sub-Registrar. A purchase must then be mutated in the land records. Invest Bangladesh registration, building approvals, the fire licence and lenders all ask for the registered deed. Check title, encumbrances and permitted land use before signing. The Registration Act was amended in 2026.

Time: Registration on execution; mutation varies · Fee: as per schedule (stamp duty, registration fee and local taxes) · Law: Registration Act 1908, s.17 (as amended, including Registration (Amendment) Act 2026); Transfer of Property Act 1882

Before designing a building in RAJUK's area, obtain land use clearance confirming that the intended use, such as industrial, commercial or residential, is allowed at the site under the Detailed Area Plan 2022-2035. Other development authorities and local governments run similar checks. An industrial project on land zoned otherwise will fail at this stage, so test it before buying land.

Time: Varies · Fee: as per schedule · Law: Building Construction Act 1952; Dhaka Metropolitan Building Construction Rules 2008; Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha Act 2026 (Act No. 67 of 2026); Detailed Area Plan 2022-2035

Industrial units and projects are classified Green, Yellow, Orange or Red by pollution potential under rule 5 of the Environment Conservation Rules 2023. Higher-category projects must obtain a location or site clearance before construction or installation. Orange projects then prepare an initial environmental examination, and Red projects a full environmental impact assessment. Confirm your category before you commit to a site, because some areas, such as ecologically critical areas declared under section 5 of the 1995 Act, restrict new polluting units.

Time: Varies by category; check the DoE citizen charter · Fee: as per schedule in the 2023 Rules · Law: Bangladesh Environment Conservation Act 1995, ss.5 and 12; Environment Conservation Rules 2023 (SRO No. 53 of 2023), rule 5

Before a factory is built, established or expanded, the Chief Inspector's prior written approval of the layout plan is required. The plan covers machinery placement, exits, ventilation, lighting and worker facilities. It must describe the same building as the building approval and the fire safety plan, because mismatches between them are a common reason licence files stall.

Time: Varies · Fee: as per Labour Rules schedule · Law: Bangladesh Labour Act 2006, s.326(1)(a); Bangladesh Labour Rules 2015

Under section 7 of the fire law, the building approval authority may approve the plans of a multi-storey building (seven or more storeys), or of a commercial building, only after the Fire Service has cleared its fire safety plan. Design fire exits, detection, hydrants and fire separation to the National Building Code from the start, because retrofitting a completed building is costly.

Time: Varies; the Director General must notify clearance within the prescribed time · Fee: as per schedule · Law: Fire Prevention and Extinguishing Act 2003, s.7; Fire Prevention and Extinguishing Rules 2014; Bangladesh National Building Code 2020

No building may be built, extended, altered or demolished without prior sanction. In RAJUK's area, section 34 of the RAJUK Act 2026 bars construction without approval under the 1952 Act and bars other bodies from approving buildings there. Designs must follow the National Building Code. Once construction is complete, obtain an occupancy certificate before use. Inside an EPZ, BEPZA approves investor-built factories under its own building requirements, and in an economic zone building plan approval is a zone one-stop service. Building outside the approved plan risks fines, stop-work orders and demolition.

Time: Varies; RAJUK runs an online construction permit system · Fee: as per schedule · Law: Building Construction Act 1952; Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha Act 2026, s.34; Bangladesh National Building Code 2020; Dhaka Metropolitan Building Construction Rules 2008; Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority Act 1980, s.11A (zone exemptions)

No industrial unit or project may be set up or operated without an environmental clearance from the Director General of the DoE. Expansion also needs fresh clearance. Apply online, often through the OSS, with the IEE or EIA, environmental management plan and effluent treatment plant design. Higher-risk categories go to the Environmental Clearance Committee. The certificate must be renewed on a cycle that depends on the category, and renewal should be filed before expiry.

Time: Varies by category; committee review for higher categories · Fee: as per schedule in the 2023 Rules · Law: Bangladesh Environment Conservation Act 1995, s.12; Environment Conservation Rules 2023 (SRO No. 53 of 2023); Invest Bangladesh FAQ: Environmental Clearance Certificate

Before a foreign employee or investor applies for a visa, the investment authority recommends it. The Visa Policy 2026 categories are E2 (employment), E3 (technical experts) and PI (investors). The OSS still uses the older labels E, E1 and PI. The file includes the board resolution, appointment letter, qualifications, manpower statement and the USD 50,000 encashment certificate. A visa-on-arrival recommendation is also available.

Time: 24 hours online if documents are complete · Fee: No fee (Invest Bangladesh) · Law: Visa Policy 2026 (Ministry of Home Affairs); Invest Bangladesh visa recommendation checklists

For enterprises inside an EPZ or hi-tech park, the zone authority recommends the visa, not Invest Bangladesh. The Visa Policy 2026 accepts recommendations from BEPZA and the Hi-Tech Park Authority for the E2, E3 and PI categories. These authorities also sanction the employment of foreign nationals in posts where local expertise is not available.

Time: Varies · Fee: as per zone authority schedule · Law: Visa Policy 2026 (Ministry of Home Affairs); Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority Act 1980; Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority Act 2010

With the recommendation, the expatriate applies to a Bangladesh mission for the correct category. PI visas run up to one year with multiple entries, extendable up to five years or the work-permit period, and investors certified for USD 100,000 can obtain a no-visa-required endorsement. Investors invited by an investment authority may get a 30-day visa on arrival, convertible to PI, E2 or E3. Other visas cannot be converted after entry.

Time: Varies by mission; visa on arrival at designated ports · Fee: Reciprocity-based visa fees; USD 200 conversion fee from visa on arrival for those taking up employment · Law: Foreigners Act 1946; Visa Policy 2026 (Ministry of Home Affairs, August 2026)

A foreign national may not work for a registered project, subsidiary or commercial office until a work permit is issued. The employer applies on the OSS within 15 working days of the expatriate's first entry, as the visa endorsement requires. The file includes the board resolution on pay and benefits, the service contract, qualifications, a manpower statement, tax clearance, the encashment certificate and a list of local staff the expatriate will train.

Time: 72 hours for projects (JV/foreign checklist); 16 working days for commercial offices, subject to inter-ministerial committee · Fee: BDT 5,000 per person per year (plus 15% VAT on the project checklist) · Law: Visa Policy 2026, general condition 5(b); Invest Bangladesh work permit checklists; Invest Bangladesh Act 2026

In an EPZ, BEPZA sanctions the employment of foreign nationals and issues their work permits as part of its one-window service. Under the 1980 Act, BEPZA approves foreign employment only for posts where local expertise is not available, so justify the post and plan a training and localisation path. The Ministry of Home Affairs security clearance still follows the permit.

Time: Varies · Fee: as per BEPZA schedule · Law: Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority Act 1980, s.7(j); BEPZA 'Why BEPZA' page (one-window services); Visa Policy 2026

Foreign nationals employed by an enterprise in a hi-tech park get their work permits from BHTPA through its One-Stop Service. BHTPA also handles visa recommendations and visa assistance. Apply within 15 working days of first entry, as required by the endorsement placed on the visa, and then apply for the security clearance.

Time: Varies · Fee: as per BHTPA schedule · Law: Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority Act 2010; Visa Policy 2026, general condition 5(b)

Every new work permit must be followed by a Ministry of Home Affairs security clearance. Since 1 October 2025, applications for Invest Bangladesh permits are made only online through the OSS. If no objection is raised within 21 working days of a complete submission, clearance is deemed granted. Applying late, after the time stated in the work permit, makes the permit invalid. For BEPZA and BHTPA work permits, apply through that authority. Visa extensions also require the clearance.

Time: Deemed granted if no objection within 21 working days · Fee: No fee stated · Law: Invest Bangladesh press release 'Security Clearance for Work Permits Now Fully Digital' (30 Sept 2025); Visa Policy 2026

Section 4 of the fire law requires a licence before any building or place is used as a warehouse or workshop for materials the government has declared flammable, and the government's investor guidance treats a fire licence as obligatory for every factory. FSCD inspects the premises, issues a demand note and requires violations to be corrected before it issues the licence. Since 1 May 2026, new licences, renewals and re-evaluations are online only. Licences must be renewed; FSCD treats them as annual, but check the validity stated on yours.

Time: After inspection and correction of violations · Fee: as per demand note · Law: Fire Prevention and Extinguishing Act 2003, s.4; Fire Prevention and Extinguishing Rules 2014; Invest Bangladesh FAQ: Fire Licence

Applies if you will use a boiler. Every boiler used in Bangladesh must be registered with the Chief Inspector of Boilers, and the certificate of use lasts no more than one year and must be renewed. Imported boilers must be built to a code recognised by the Boiler Board under an approved inspection agency, and every boiler operator needs a five-year operator licence. Unregistered boilers can be shut down.

Time: After inspection; certificate valid up to 1 year · Fee: as per schedule under the Act · Law: Boiler Act 2022 (Act No. 6 of 2022), ss.9, 16, 18 and 19

Applies if you will store petroleum products, LPG, compressed gases, explosives or similar hazardous materials above exempt quantities, for example fuel for generators, gas cylinders or chemical stores. Storage needs a licence from the Department of Explosives for the premises. Approval of the storage layout usually comes before construction, followed by a licence to operate.

Time: Varies · Fee: as per schedule · Law: Explosives Act 1884; Petroleum Act 2016

Factories, shops and establishments must hold a DIFE licence to operate. DIFE treats the fire licence and environmental clearance as part of the factory file. Section 326(1)(b) of the Labour Act, as substituted by the Bangladesh Labour (Amendment) Act 2026, now requires renewal every five years, while contractor agencies keep one-year licences. In May 2026, however, DIFE field offices were still issuing one-year renewals while fees and procedures were settled, so check the term on your renewal. EPZs fall under BEPZA's own labour regime.

Time: Varies; online application (Form 77 on LIMA); renewal every 5 years under the 2026 amendment · Fee: as per schedule · Law: Bangladesh Labour Act 2006, s.326(1)(b) (substituted by s.81 of the Bangladesh Labour (Amendment) Act 2026, Act No. 43 of 2026); Bangladesh Labour Rules 2015; Bangladesh EPZ Labour Act 2019 (for EPZs)

EPZ enterprises import machinery and raw materials and export output on permits issued by BEPZA, not on a CCI&E IRC or ERC. Subcontracting and local purchase permissions also come from BEPZA. Most of these commercial functions are automated, and BEPZA describes them as same-day services. The zones are customs-bonded areas, so every movement in and out must be on permit.

Time: Same day for most automated permits (BEPZA) · Fee: as per BEPZA schedule · Law: Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority Act 1980; BEPZA 'Why BEPZA' page (one-window, same-day services)

Products on the government's mandatory list, including many foods, beverages, cosmetics, construction materials and electrical goods, may not be made for sale, sold or imported without meeting the Bangladesh Standard. A local manufacturer needs a CM licence for each product and factory before using the standard mark. An importer of listed goods needs a BSTI clearance before customs release. Packaged goods may also need metrology registration.

Time: After inspection and laboratory testing · Fee: as per BSTI schedule · Law: Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution Act 2018 (Act No. 67 of 2018), ss.15-16; Weights and Measures Standards Act 2018

Applies if you will import plants, seeds, grains, fruit, timber or other plant products. An import permit is needed before shipment, and a phytosanitary clearance at the port. The goods must also carry the exporting country's phytosanitary certificate. Allow for inspection and possible treatment of consignments at the port of entry.

Time: Varies · Fee: as per schedule · Law: Plant Quarantine Act 2011; Import Policy Order (current)

Food processors, restaurants and food importers operate under the Safe Food Act 2013, which BFSA enforces through inspectors and food courts. The Act sets duties on hygiene, labelling, additives and contaminants. Section 39 makes it an offence to run a food business without any registration that another law requires, so the trade licence, BSTI and hotel or restaurant licences must all be in place. Expect inspections and sampling.

Time: Ongoing compliance · Fee: Not applicable · Law: Safe Food Act 2013 (Act No. 43 of 2013), s.39; Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution Act 2018

The Textile Act 2018 provides for registration of textile industries, with the Director General of the Department of Textiles as registrar. Buying houses register separately under the same Act. Textile units and garment buying houses should obtain this registration alongside their trade body membership, because export, bonded and incentive files may ask for it.

Time: Varies · Fee: as per schedule · Law: Textile Act 2018 (Act No. 37 of 2018), ss.12-14

No new medicine manufacturing project, and no expansion of an existing one, may begin without the licensing authority's prior approval. Obtain DGDA approval of the project, including layout, product range and technology, before building or converting the plant. Plan GMP compliance from the design stage. Existing licences and procedural rules made under the repealed laws continue until they are replaced.

Time: Varies · Fee: as per DGDA schedule · Law: Drugs and Cosmetics Act 2023 (Act No. 29 of 2023), s.14 (proviso) and s.82

Manufacturing, selling, stocking or distributing medicines without a DGDA licence, or outside its conditions, is prohibited. A manufacturing licence follows inspection of the completed plant against GMP. Licences last two years and are renewable. Cosmetics have their own licence and registration under the same Act. The Act carries heavy penalties for counterfeit and adulterated products.

Time: After inspection; licence valid 2 years · Fee: as per DGDA schedule · Law: Drugs and Cosmetics Act 2023 (Act No. 29 of 2023), ss.14-15

Every medicine must be registered before it is manufactured, imported, exported, sold or distributed, and registration is product by product. Registrations, granted on the Drug Control Committee's recommendation with a marketing authorisation, last five years. Imports of finished medicines, active ingredients and packaging each need DGDA approval. Prices of listed medicines may be fixed by the government.

Time: Varies; Drug Control Committee meetings · Fee: as per DGDA schedule · Law: Drugs and Cosmetics Act 2023 (Act No. 29 of 2023), ss.22-23

Applies if the business will sell, stock or distribute medicines, for example a hospital pharmacy, a distributor or an online pharmacy. The DGDA licence is premises-specific, so each outlet or warehouse needs its own. A licence lasts two years and is renewable. Selling medicines online does not avoid the requirement.

Time: After inspection; licence valid 2 years · Fee: as per DGDA schedule · Law: Drugs and Cosmetics Act 2023 (Act No. 29 of 2023), ss.14-15

Applies if the business will import, produce, store, use or transport scheduled narcotics or precursor chemicals, such as solvents and reagents used in pharmaceutical or chemical production. Each of these dealings is prohibited unless done under a DNC licence, permit or pass. Licences carry conditions and record-keeping duties, and breaches carry severe penalties.

Time: Varies · Fee: as per DNC schedule · Law: Narcotics Control Act 2018 (Act No. 63 of 2018), ss.9 and 13

A private hospital, clinic, nursing home or diagnostic laboratory must be licensed by DGHS before it opens and must keep the licence renewed. Conditions cover qualified doctors and nurses, beds, equipment, space and hygiene. Unlicensed facilities are liable to closure. Medical waste handling and the DoE clearance for the facility are separate requirements.

Time: After inspection · Fee: as per DGHS schedule · Law: Medical Practice and Private Clinics and Laboratories (Regulation) Ordinance 1982

Every telecom network, internet service, radio frequency use and telecom equipment business needs BTRC authorisation. Some licences are issued on open application, some by tender, and some services need only registration or enlistment. Category guidelines set eligibility, fees, revenue share, bank guarantees and foreign ownership limits. The licensing regime is being restructured under the 2025 policy and its 2026 revision, so confirm the current category first.

Time: Varies by category; tenders follow their own timetable · Fee: as per BTRC category guideline · Law: Bangladesh Telecommunication Act 2001 (as amended 2026); BTRC licensing regulations and category guidelines

Applies if you will import radio, wireless or telecom equipment, such as routers, network gear or IoT devices with radio modules. Customs release needs a BTRC no-objection certificate, and some equipment must be type-approved. Equipment vendors may also need BTRC enlistment.

Time: Varies · Fee: as per BTRC schedule · Law: Bangladesh Telecommunication Act 2001; BTRC equipment import and type-approval guidelines

For a bank or a foreign bank branch. No company may carry on banking business in Bangladesh without a Bangladesh Bank licence. Bangladesh Bank tests capital, ownership, fit-and-proper directors and the public interest. Shareholding and board changes after licensing need its approval. Digital banks are licensed under separate guidelines. The Bank Resolution Act 2026 gives Bangladesh Bank new powers to resolve failing banks.

Time: Varies; policy-driven · Fee: as per Bangladesh Bank · Law: Bank Company Act 1991, s.31; Bank Resolution Act 2026

For a finance company or leasing company. Section 4 of the Finance Company Act 2023 bars financing business without a Bangladesh Bank licence. The regulator tests financial condition, management, capital adequacy, the objects clause and the public interest. Under section 10, no person, which includes a company, and no family may hold more than 15% of a finance company, and anyone becoming a significant shareholder (over 5%) needs a Bangladesh Bank no-objection certificate first. Bangladesh Bank also sets the maximum foreign shareholding. A wholly owned foreign subsidiary is therefore not possible. Minimum capital is set by Bangladesh Bank rather than the Act, so check the current figure.

Time: Varies · Fee: as per Bangladesh Bank · Law: Finance Company Act 2023 (Act No. 59 of 2023), ss.4, 8 and 10

Applies if you will run a payment gateway, switch, aggregator, merchant-acquiring platform (PSO) or e-wallet issuing e-money (PSP). Each needs a Bangladesh Bank licence. Licensing has two phases: an NOC, then a final licence after on-site inspection. Operating an unlicensed payment platform is an offence, and merchants that use one are also exposed. Bangladesh Bank's procedure sets minimum paid-up capital of Tk 50 lakh for a PSO and Tk 20 crore for a PSP, which it may revise. Its Regulations for E-Money in Bangladesh, reported as still in draft, add a Dedicated E-Money Issuer licence.

Time: Two phases: NOC, then final licence after inspection · Fee: Application fee Tk 25,000; licence fee Tk 1,00,000 on final approval (Bangladesh Bank PSO/PSP Approval Procedure; check for revision) · Law: Payment and Settlement Systems Act 2024 (Act No. 9 of 2024); Bangladesh Payment and Settlement Systems Regulations 2014; Bangladesh Bank Approval Procedure of PSO/PSP (Payment Systems Department)

Mobile financial services that offer cash-in, cash-out and person-to-person transfers through agents need Bangladesh Bank approval under the MFS Regulations 2022. The provider may be a bank, or a subsidiary formed by a bank, a government entity or a finance company. A bank subsidiary must be at least 51% bank-owned, and a subsidiary-model provider needs paid-up capital of at least Tk 45 crore. A foreign technology partner usually joins as a minority investor or service provider rather than as the licensee. Bangladesh Bank's e-money regulations would require existing MFS providers to seek fresh approval within six months of coming into force, so confirm the current rules first.

Time: Varies · Fee: as per Bangladesh Bank · Law: Bangladesh Mobile Financial Services (MFS) Regulations 2022; Payment and Settlement Systems Act 2024 (Act No. 9 of 2024); Bangladesh Bank Regulations for E-Money in Bangladesh (status to be confirmed)

Online sellers and marketplaces register for a Digital Business Identification certificate on the RJSC-run DBID platform and display the DBID number on their website or page. The Digital Commerce Operation Guidelines 2021 also set delivery, refund, complaint and record-keeping duties. Taking advance payment for goods not ready to ship is restricted unless a Bangladesh Bank-permitted escrow service is used.

Time: Varies; applications reviewed by RJSC · Fee: as per schedule · Law: Digital Commerce Policy 2020 (as amended); Digital Commerce Operation Guidelines 2021 (Ministry of Commerce)

No person may carry on insurance business in Bangladesh without an IDRA registration certificate. A new insurer must hold the minimum paid-up capital set in the Act's first schedule. Unlike most licences, an insurer's registration must be renewed every year; check the statutory filing date with IDRA. Agents, brokers and surveyors are registered or licensed separately.

Time: Varies · Fee: as per IDRA schedule · Law: Insurance Act 2010, ss.8 and 11; Insurance Development and Regulatory Authority Act 2010

Section 27 of the BERC Act bars generation, transmission, distribution, supply or storage of energy without a BERC licence or exemption. This covers electricity, gas and petroleum products. BERC sets tariffs after public hearing. The government's power under section 34A to fix prices by notification was removed by an amending ordinance in August 2024. A licensed undertaking also needs BERC consent when it is financed or transferred.

Time: Varies · Fee: as per BERC licensing regulations · Law: Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission Act 2003, s.27; BERC (Amendment) Ordinance 2024 (removing s.34A); Electricity Act 2018

No one may operate a hotel or restaurant without both a registration certificate and a licence. After registration, a hotel must start business and take its licence within two years, and a restaurant within one year. A licence is refused if the building is structurally unsafe or poorly protected against fire, electrical or gas hazards. Licences last three years and must be renewed before expiry.

Time: Varies; licence valid 3 years · Fee: as per schedule under the Act · Law: Bangladesh Hotels and Restaurants Act 2014 (Act No. 15 of 2014), ss.2(4), 4 and 7-12

Applies if you will run a tour operator, tour guide or travel agency business. Tour operators need registration under the 2021 Act, valid three years, with renewal filed at least three months before expiry. A foreign person or entity needs the government's prior permission to operate as a tour operator. Travel agencies need a separate three-year registration from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism.

Time: Varies; registration valid 3 years · Fee: as per schedule · Law: Bangladesh Tour Operator and Tour Guide (Registration and Operation) Act 2021 (Act No. 26 of 2021), ss.4 and 8; Bangladesh Travel Agency (Registration and Control) Act 2013, ss.4-7 (as amended 2021)

A private university first needs provisional permission under the Private University Act 2010, then a permanent certificate once the statutory conditions are met. Branch campuses and study centres of foreign universities need explicit government and UGC approval, and the UGC has ordered unapproved centres to stop operating. Schools, colleges and training institutes follow separate board or ministry rules. Check the route for your institution type.

Time: Lengthy; ministry and UGC review · Fee: as per schedule · Law: Private University Act 2010 (Act No. 35 of 2010), ss.5-9; Foreign university branch campus and study centre rules (2014)

Every real estate developer must register with the relevant authority, such as RAJUK in Dhaka, before carrying on real estate business in an area. Each project also needs approval before work starts. The Act regulates sale agreements, handover and buyers' rights and penalises unregistered development. Building and land use approvals for each project are listed separately above.

Time: Varies · Fee: as per schedule · Law: Real Estate Development and Management Act 2010 (Act No. 48 of 2010), s.5

Clearing and forwarding (customs agent) business, freight forwarding, off-dock container facilities, inland container depots and bonded logistics each need a licence or permission from the customs authorities. Activities at a port may also need the port authority's licence. Check the current licensing rules for the specific activity, and expect capital, premises and security conditions.

Time: Varies · Fee: as per schedule · Law: Customs Act 2023 (Act No. 57 of 2023) and rules made under it; Chattogram Port Authority Act 2022 / Mongla Port Authority Act 2022 (port activities)

Any organisation, including a foreign NGO's Bangladesh office, that will receive foreign donations for voluntary activities must first register with the NGO Affairs Bureau. Registration must be renewed. This is separate from company or society registration and from Invest Bangladesh office permission. A commercial investment does not need it unless it also runs foreign-funded voluntary activities.

Time: Varies; involves security vetting · Fee: as per schedule · Law: Foreign Donations (Voluntary Activities) Regulation Act 2016 (Act No. 43 of 2016), s.4

Even after registration, no NGO may receive foreign donations without project-by-project approval from the Bureau. The project proposal must state the area of operation, budget and activities, and the Bureau then authorises release of the funds. Administrative costs and reporting are regulated, and breaches can lead to suspension or cancellation of registration.

Time: Varies · Fee: as per schedule · Law: Foreign Donations (Voluntary Activities) Regulation Act 2016 (Act No. 43 of 2016), s.6