BMS Auditing provides a complete step-by-step guide to company registration in Saudi Arabia. From MISA licensing to tax compliance, we ensure smooth business setup.
Establishing a business in Saudi Arabia is an exciting opportunity, but success starts with navigating the registration process accurately. From choosing the right structure to fulfilling compliance obligations, each step requires precision and planning. To support your journey, BMS Auditing presents this comprehensive checklist for business registration in the Kingdom.
- Choose the Right Business Structure
The foundation of your registration process begins with selecting a suitable legal structure. Common options in Saudi Arabia include:
- Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- Joint Stock Company (JSC)
- Branch of a Foreign Company
- Representative Office
Each structure carries different implications for ownership, liability, and tax obligations. BMS Auditing helps evaluate your needs and recommend the best fit.
- Obtain MISA License (If Foreign-Owned)
Foreign investors must apply for a license from the Ministry of Investment Saudi Arabia (MISA) to operate legally. The application includes submitting a business plan, proof of capital, and details of the foreign entity. - Draft and Notarize Articles of Association (AoA)
Once your company structure and MISA license are ready, prepare the Articles of Association and notarize them with the local notary public. This document outlines your company’s governance, ownership, and operations. - Apply for Commercial Registration (CR)
Register your business with the Ministry of Commerce (MoC) to obtain the Commercial Registration (CR) certificate. This crucial step legally establishes your business entity in Saudi Arabia. - Register With Key Saudi Authorities
Your business must be registered with several regulatory bodies to remain compliant:
- Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) – for VAT and tax obligations
- General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI) – for employee registration
- Chamber of Commerce – for trade and commercial representation
- Open a Corporate Bank Account
Choose a local Saudi bank to open a business account. Banks require your CR, AoA, MISA license (if applicable), and authorized signatory documents. - Secure Sector-Specific Licenses and Approvals
Depending on your industry, you may need additional approvals from relevant ministries (e.g., Ministry of Health, Ministry of Tourism, etc.). BMS Auditing ensures you comply with all licensing requirements applicable to your sector. - Process Visas and Hire Employees
Register your company on the Qiwa and Muqeem platforms to sponsor visas and manage work permits. You must also comply with Saudization (Nitaqat) requirements for employee quotas. - Fulfill Ongoing Compliance Obligations
Once operational, businesses must stay compliant by:
- Submitting annual audited financial statements
- Renewing licenses and CR on time
- Filing VAT returns with ZATCA
- Updating GOSI with employee changes
- Ensuring health, safety, and insurance regulations are met
Why Partner with BMS Auditing?
BMS Auditing offers comprehensive support at all levels — from MISA licensing to taxation registration and recurring compliance. We seamlessly process your registration courtesy of our vastly experienced Saudi professionals, saving time, penalty-proofing, and providing a well-established foundation for expansion.
Ready to Register Your Business in Saudi Arabia?
Let BMS Auditing guide you through every step of the Saudi business registration checklist. Contact us today for expert assistance.
