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Foreign company registration in Qatar

Foreign Company Registration in Qatar

This page will expertly guide you through foreign company registration in Qatar in 2024. It will provide a detailed breakdown of the necessary steps, associated costs, and the specialized legal assistance that is available.

Contact Justice Office Lawyer in Qatar and get expert help. Click the WhatsApp icon below or go to the Contact Us page.

Foreign Company Registration in Qatar Steps

Registering a foreign company in Qatar in 2024 involves several key steps according to the latest laws:

  1. Choose a Business Structure: Select from structures such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), which requires a Qatari partner with at least 51% ownership, or a Branch Office, which requires a Qatari agent. Other options include a Representative Office for non-commercial activities.
  2. Reserve a Trade Name: Ensure the trade name is unique and relevant to the business.
  3. Prepare Required Documents: Gather documents, including the Memorandum of Association (MOA), Articles of Association (AOA), shareholder agreements, proof of share capital (minimum QAR 200,000 for LLC), passport copies, and residency permits of all shareholders. Prepare a trade name reservation certificate and a notarized power of attorney for the authorized signatory.
  4. Obtain Initial Approvals: Secure approvals from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) and other relevant authorities.
  5. Submit Application to MOCI: Submit all prepared documents to MOCI for approval.
  6. Obtain Commercial Registration: Receive the commercial registration certificate upon approval, which allows the business to operate legally.
  7. Open a Corporate Bank Account: Establish a corporate bank account in a Qatari bank under the company’s name.
  8. Register for Taxes: Complete tax registration with the General Tax Authority.
  9. Register with the Ministry of Labor: Register with the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs for work permits for foreign workers.
  10. Obtain Necessary Licenses: Depending on your business activities, you may need to acquire specific licenses, such as commercial, industrial, or professional licenses.
  11. Secure Office Space: Arrange suitable office space, essential for obtaining a trade license.
  12. Complete Additional Registrations: Register with public taxes and revenues departments.

Learn about Company Formation in Qatar and read about International Business Company Formation in Qatar.

Read about Full Ownership of Companies for Foreigners in Qatar.

Foreign Company Registration Fees in Qatar

The costs of registering a company in Qatar can vary based on the type of business and specific requirements:

  • Commercial Registration Fee: Typically ranges from QAR 10,000 to QAR 20,000.
  • Office Space Costs: Annual rental costs vary between QAR 1,500 and QAR 7,000.
  • Incorporation Costs: Generally over QAR 30,000 in the first year.
  • Annual Company Costs: Over QAR 5,000 from the second year onwards.

Specific License Fees

Costs differ based on the business type, such as:

  • Foreign-owned business: QAR 133,330.
  • Free zone business: QAR 122,280.
  • Branch office: QAR 112,557 to QAR 126,706.
  • Representative office: QAR 126,690.

Legal Services for registering foreign companies in Qatar

Justice Office Lawyers & Legal Consultants offer specialized legal services to assist with foreign company registration in Qatar.  These services include:

  • Legal Consultation: Provide expert advice on the appropriate business structure and understand the legal requirements for establishing a business in Qatar.
  • Document Preparation: Drafting and notarizing essential legal documents, such as the Memorandum of Association (MOA), Articles of Association (AOA), and shareholder agreements, to ensure compliance with Qatari laws.
  • Approval Acquisition: Managing the process of obtaining necessary initial approvals from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) and other relevant authorities.
  • Company Registration Process: Handling the entire registration process with MOCI, ensuring all legal requirements are met and the process is completed efficiently.
  • Visa and Work Permit Assistance: Assisting in the legal aspects of obtaining business and investor visas and work permits for foreign employees to ensure compliance with Qatari immigration laws.

Find the best Company Registration Consultant in Qatar and get legal services from an expert Business Formation Attorney Qatar.

FAQs about Registration by Foreign Companies in Qatar

Yes, under the Foreign Direct Investment Law, foreign companies can fully own businesses in most sectors in Qatar. This law allows 100% foreign ownership, especially in manufacturing, healthcare, education, and IT sectors. However, certain sectors like financial services, insurance, and commercial agencies still require a Qatari partner.
Our law firm provides legal consultation on business structure and regulatory compliance, document preparation and notarization, managing initial approval acquisitions, overseeing the entire company registration process with MOCI, and assisting with business and investor visa application legal aspects.

By leveraging their extensive legal expertise, Justice Office Lawyers & Legal Consultants help foreign businesses navigate Qatar’s complex legal and regulatory environment, facilitating a smooth and compliant business setup process.

Consult with professionals who are well-versed in Qatar’s business laws and regulations for detailed, step-by-step guidance and assistance tailored to your foreign company registration in Qatar.

Contact Justice Office Lawyers & Legal Consultants today! Click the Whatsapp icon below or visit our Contact Us page.
Location: Excellence Tower, Floor (15), Office (1504) – Al Shatt Street – Doha – Qatar.

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