Business licenses and permits required for companies in Bahrain

Financial backers can apply for commercial registration with the Service of Industry, Trade and The travel industry and track the situation with their applications and endorsements through the service's Commercial Registration Portal. Here are the numerous business licenses and permits required for companies in Bahrain.

Types of business licenses and permits required for companies in Bahrain

Depending on the nature of the company, several business licences and permissions may be needed in Bahrain, but the following are some typical ones that may be required:

Commercial registration certificate

The Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Tourism requires all companies doing business in Bahrain to have a commercial registration certificate (MOICT). Any commercial activity within the nation must have this certificate.

Industry-specific licences

Depending on the nature of the company, additional government agencies may require industry-specific licences or permits. Businesses in the healthcare sector, for instance, could need a licence from the Ministry of Health, whilst those in the building sector might need one from the Ministry of Works, Municipalities Affairs, and Urban Planning.

Work permits

In order to work in Bahrain, foreign people employed by the company may need work permits. The General Directorate of Nationality, Passports, and Residence Affairs is responsible for issuing these licences.

Licenses for import and export

The Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Tourism may issue import and export licences to businesses engaged in import and export activities.

Liquor license

The Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism issues licences to businesses that sell alcohol.

Licenses for the telecommunications sector

The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority issues licences to companies operating in the sector.

Environmental permits

Environmental permits may be needed by companies engaged in waste management, manufacturing, or other activities that could have an influence on the environment, according to the Supreme Council for Environment.

The process for Bahraini businesses to obtain business licenses and approvals

In Bahrain, the process for obtaining business licences and permits can vary based on the particular licence or permit needed, but the following is a broad outline of the procedure:

Determine the necessary licences and permits: The first step is to determine the licences and permits needed for your company depending on your business's activity and industry.

Get the application ready: Applications can be made once the necessary licences and permits have been determined. Several documents, including proof of identification and residency, firm registration paperwork, and other documents unique to the industry, must be submitted as part of the application process.

Submit the application: The completed application and supporting documents must be submitted to the relevant government authority responsible for issuing the license or permit. Some applications can be submitted online, while others may need to be submitted in person.

Pay the fees: Depending on the type of license or permit, there may be fees associated with the application process. These fees must be paid to the relevant government authority.

Application review: Once the application and fees are submitted, the relevant government authority will review the application and supporting documents to ensure compliance with the regulations and requirements.

Inspection: In some circumstances, the relevant government agency may carry out an inspection of the commercial space to check for adherence to rules and safety requirements.

Issuance of the license or permit: IThe appropriate government authority will grant the licence or permit if the application is approved. Depending on the particular licence or permit, there may be a necessity for renewal and other conditions.

It is significant to note that depending on the particular licence or permission required, the application process and requirements may change. To ensure compliance with laws and to learn about the specific requirements and procedures for acquiring the required licences and permissions for your business in Bahrain, it is advised that you consult with experts from Odint Consulting.