Trade License

How to Obtain a Trade License in Bangladesh

In Bangladesh, every business entity is required to obtain formal permission from the relevant office of the Dhaka City Corporation or Municipality (Union Parishad, Pouroshava, Upazila, or Zilla Parishad) to operate. This permission is granted in the form of a Trade License. Operating a business without a trade license is illegal, and businesses must follow the legal requirements outlined in the Dhaka City Corporation Ordinance, 1983, and the Municipal Taxation Rules, 1986.

Required Documents

To apply for a trade license, the following documents must be submitted:

1. Application Form: From Dhaka City Corporation (North Form or South Form, depending on location)
2. National ID card of the entrepreneur
3. Recent receipt or proof of ownership of the business premises
4. Holding Tax payment receipt
5. Recent passport-sized photo of the entrepreneur
6. Declaration on non-judicial stamp agreeing to abide by the rules and regulations of the City Corporation/Municipality/Union Parishad
7. Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association (for companies)
8. Certificate of Incorporation (for companies)
9. Agreement of Partnership (if applicable)
10. Work Permit from the Board of Investment (BIDA) for foreign nationals
11. Statement of Bank Solvency
12. TIN Certificate (Tax Identification Number)

Procedure

Obtain the Application Form: The required application form is available at the relevant City Corporation or Municipality office. Depending on the location of your business, you’ll need to choose the appropriate form (North or South Form in Dhaka).

Submit the Documents: Complete the application form and submit it, along with the necessary documents, to the taxation officer at the City Corporation or Municipality office.

Inspection and Fee Payment: The taxation officer will review the documents, and once verified, you will be required to pay the prescribed fees.

Receive the License: After processing and payment, the trade license will be issued. Ensure all requirements are met to receive the license promptly.

Time Limit

• The estimated processing time for issuing the trade license is typically 3-4 working days.
• However, this timeline may vary based on the nature and type of business.