How to Get BIDA Approval in Bangladesh: Step-by-Step Guide for Investors

How to Get BIDA Approval in Bangladesh
Author: SRCO Business Insights | May 6, 2025

How to Get BIDA Approval in Bangladesh: Step-by-Step Guide for Investors

If you’re planning to invest in Bangladesh or set up a business here, obtaining BIDA (Bangladesh Investment Development Authority) approval is one of the first key steps. This approval is crucial for foreign investors looking to establish a business, branch office, or liaison office. This guide will walk you through getting BIDA approval and how SRCO BD can assist you at every stage of the journey.

What is BIDA Approval?

The Bangladesh Investment Development Authority granted BIDA approval for foreign investors or companies wanting to operate within Bangladesh. It is required for various types of business setups, including:

  • Liaison offices (non-commercial)
  • Branch offices (commercial activities)
  • Joint ventures and full-fledged subsidiaries

The approval process ensures that foreign investments align with Bangladesh’s regulatory framework, contributing to development.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting BIDA Approval

1. Determine the Type of Investment or Office

Before applying for BIDA approval, it’s understand which category your business falls under:

  • Liaison Office: Typically used for non-commercial activities like market research, coordination, and promotion.
  • Branch Office: For conducting commercial activities such as executing contracts or providing services.
  • Joint Venture/Foreign Subsidiary: For companies aiming to establish full-fledged operations in Bangladesh.

2. Prepare Required Documentation

To get BIDA approval, you’ll need to you’ll several documents. These include:

  • A completed VISA application form
  • Board resolution from the parent company
  • Company’s CertCompany’sf Incorporation and Memorandum of Association (MOA)
  • Financial statements of the parent company (audited)
  • Proposed office address in Bangladesh
  • Passport copies of the directors
  • Details of business activities, financial projections, and investment plan

Pro Tip: Ensure that all foreign documents are notarized and, where necessary, translated into English.

3. Submit Your Application Online

The BIDA OSS (One-Stop Service) Portal is the platform for submitting your application. You’ll need to leave an account, upload all required documents, and pay the applicable fees.

SRCO BD Tip: SRCO BD can help you submit documents correctly, ensuring that everything is filled out accurately to avoid delays.

4. Pay the Application Fee

An application fee must be paid as part of the process, and the amount varies depending on the type of office or business setup you are applying for. For liaison offices, the fee is generally around BDT 25,000.

5. Wait for Review and Approval

Once you apply, BIDA will review your documents. The review process can take 15 to 30 working days, during which BIDA may request additional documents or clarifications.

SRCO BD Assistance: SRCO can act as an intermediary between you and BIDA, ensuring that you provide the correct responses promptly and that the approval process moves forward smoothly.

6. Post-Approval Steps

Once BIDA approves your application, you’ll need to do a few additional formalities:

  • Open a local bank account
  • Register with the Bangladesh Bank for inward remittance.
  • Obtain VAT registration, TIN, and trade license from local authorities.

SRCO BD Support: After approval, SRCO BD helps you with these post-approval procedures, ensuring you fully comply with local regulations.

Why Choose SRCO BD for BIDA Approval Assistance?

Navigating the process of BIDA approval can be complex and time-consuming. SRCO BD offers expert consultancy to ensure the process is seamless and efficient. Here’s how we help you:

✅ Document Preparation

We assist you in preparing and organizing all necessary documents, ensuring that every form and Document is completed correctly and is fully compliant with BIDA’s requirements.

✅ Application Submission

We handle submitting your application through the BIDA OSS portal, reducing the chances of errors and delays. Our team ensures that your application is submitted promptly and accurately.

✅ Follow-Up and Communication

SRCO BD serves as your representative during the review process. We follow up with BIDA to ensure your application is being processed and respond to any additional Information requests.

✅ Post-Approval Services

Once you receive BIDA approval, SRCO BD will guide you through the necessary post-approval steps, such as opening bank accounts, registering with Bangladesh Bank, obtaining TIN, VAT registration, and securing a trade license.

✅ Local Expertise

With extensive knowledge of Bangladesh’s environment and experience in dealing with BIDA, SRCO BD ensures that your investment process is as smooth as possible. We stay updated with any regulatory changes, ensuring that your investment complies with all laws.

Conclusion

Getting BIDA approval is a critical first step for foreign investors looking to establish a presence in Bangladesh. While the process may seem daunting, it can be completed smoothly with the proper Preparation and guidance. SRCO BD provides professional services to help you navigate the entire process, from application submission to post-approval compliance.

If you’re looking to start a business in Bangladesh, SRCO BD is your trusted partner for BIDA approval assistance. Contact us today to get started on your investment journey!

FAQs: How to Get BIDA Approval in Bangladesh

1. What is BIDA?

BIDA (Bangladesh Investment Development Authority) is the government agency that approves foreign investments and office registrations in Bangladesh.

2. Who needs BIDA approval?

Foreign companies planning to open a liaison office, branch office, or subsidiary in Bangladesh must get BIDA approval.

3. How long does the approval take?

Usually 15–30 working days, depending on document accuracy and response times.

4. What documents are required?

  • Application form
  • Parent company’s registration & MOA
  • Board Resolution
  • Audited financials
  • Director passports
  • Business plan

5. What is the application fee?

The standard fee is BDT 25,000 for liaison office registration.

6. Can SRCO BD help?

Yes. SRCO BD offers full support—from document preparation and online submission to post-approval compliance.

7. What happens after approval?

You’ll need to:

  • Open a bank account
  • Send inward remittance
  • Register with Bangladesh Bank
  • Get a TIN, VAT, and trade license.

8. Can BIDA approval be renewed?

Yes, typically after 3 years. Renewal requires updated documents and activity reports.

 

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