Quick answers: company formation in Bahrain
Short, factual answers to the questions clients ask us most. Government fees and rules can change; we confirm the current position before you apply.
Can foreigners own 100% of a company in Bahrain?
Yes. Foreign investors can hold 100% ownership of a Bahrain W.L.L. in more than 350 approved commercial activities, with no local partner or sponsor needed for eligible activities. A few regulated activities still require a Bahraini partner or a special licence, so we confirm your activity code before filing.
How much does company formation in Bahrain cost?
Government fees paid through Sijilat for a standard W.L.L. usually total BHD 250 to 350: trade name BHD 50, CR issuance BHD 50, activity licence BHD 100 for up to three activities, plus LMRA registration and eKey. Full-service packages generally start from about BHD 1,300 to 1,500. We give you an itemised quote before you commit.
How long does it take to get a CR in Bahrain?
Most foreign-owned W.L.L. companies receive their Commercial Registration (CR) in 11 to 21 working days. The steps are security clearance, trade name reservation on Sijilat, a municipality-verified address, the notarised Memorandum of Association and a corporate bank account, which must be opened before the CR is issued.
What is a W.L.L. company in Bahrain?
A W.L.L. (With Limited Liability) company is Bahrain's equivalent of an LLC and the most common structure for foreign investors. It allows 1 to 50 shareholders, limits each shareholder's liability to their capital, and any nationality can be the manager. A single-shareholder W.L.L., often called an SPC, suits solo founders.
Is there corporate tax in Bahrain?
Bahrain has no general corporate income tax for most businesses. Tax applies to oil and gas companies, large multinational groups with global revenue of EUR 750 million or more are subject to a 15% domestic minimum top-up tax from 2025, and VAT is charged at 10%.
Do I need to be in Bahrain to start the process?
No. With our remote application setup (BHD 80) we start your application before you travel or issue a power of attorney. Most clients then complete the remaining formalities in two short visits.
Can you help with residence permits and family visas in Bahrain?
Yes. Our PRO team handles investor and employee residence permits, LMRA work permits, Golden Residency applications and family (dependant) residence for spouses and children, including document attestation and renewals. Applications are decided by NPRA and LMRA.
Who is Visit Arabia Services?
Visit Arabia Services W.L.L. is a corporate services provider in Bahrain, established in 2012, with offices in H Tower and Building 2317, Al Seef. We handle company formation, CR registration and amendments, PRO and government liaison, ministry approvals, recruitment and property management, with live online tracking and payment in three instalments.
Need an exact quote for your activity? Contact Visit Arabia Services or call +973 3561 5033.
Popular services: Company formation in Bahrain | CR registration | Residence permits & visas | Family visa | PRO services | Management consultancy | Recruitment