Frequently Asked Questions
What are the popular types of companies in Bahrain?
1. Bahrain Public Shareholding Companies – B.S.C.
2. Bahrain Shareholding Companies (closed) – B.S.C.(c)
3. With Limited Liability (W.L.L.) Companies.
4. Single Person Companies (S.P.C.)
5. Partnership companies
6. Sole Proprietorship Establishments
7. Branches of Foreign companies
Is it possible for an expatriate to own 100% of a business in Bahrain?
There more than 350 activities such as manufacturing, Information Technology, consultancy etc., which the foreigners are allowed to be own 100% in the and such other activities.
What type of company would be suitable for an expatriate investor?
For small operations, the most preferred are Single Person Company (SPC) for a sole investor and a With Limited Liability (WLL) Company for two or more investors.
Certain activities may not be permitted for SPC or WLL, especially where public funds are involved. In such cases Joint Stock (closed) companies would be the option.
How much time it takes to register a company?
Ideally two to three weeks subject to availability of all the required information and the required approvals from the authorities.
Is the personal presence of the investors required for registering a company?
Yes, in certain cases.
Can an expatriate open a bank account in Bahrain?
Yes, if he has a residence permit in Bahrain.
Can a foreign company open a bank account in Bahrain?
Yes, if it has a commercial registration in Bahrain.
Are virtual offices available for registration of companies?
Yes, for certain activities.
Is it possible to register a company in Bahrain for carrying out activities exclusively outside Bahrain?
Yes, subject to complying with the Bahrain requirements for those activities.
Is there a minimum share capital requirement?
In the case of Single Person Company and With Limited Liabilities companies, the capital requirements are nominal. The investors may decide the share capital depending on their need.
Is the share capital required to be kept in fixed deposit?
No. The capital can be used for the company’s purposes after completion of the incorporation procedures.
How much is the personal income tax in Bahrain? How much is the tax payable by the Companies on their income?
There is no personal income tax in Bahrain. Most of the commercial activities also do not attract income tax.