How to open a liaison office in Bangladesh A Step By Guide 2025

Author: SRCO Business Insights | June 30, 2025

Bangladesh is becoming an important market for many international companies. A liaison office (also known as a representative office) helps foreign businesses set up a small, non-commercial presence in the country. This office cannot earn money locally but is useful for doing market research, promoting the company, and building local connections.

If you’re wondering how to open a liaison office in Bangladesh, the process involves getting approval from the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), following local rules, and submitting the required documents. It’s a good way to explore the market, understand customer needs, and prepare for future business opportunities—without starting full operations right away.

What is a Liaison Office?

A liaison office is a non-trading office of a foreign company in Bangladesh. It cannot engage in commercial activities (no local revenue generation or trading). It is primarily used for:

• Promoting the business of the parent company
• Market research and networking
• Liaising between the head office and Bangladeshi clients or partners
• Technical or operational support

Legal Basis for Opening a Liaison Office

Liaison office approval in Bangladesh is governed by:

• Register of Joint Stock Companies and Firms (RJSC)
• Bangladesh Bank (if inward remittance is required)
• Foreign Exchange Regulation Act, 1947
• Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA)

Step-by-Step Process to Open a Liaison Office in Bangladesh

1. Appoint a Local Consultant or Legal Representative

Hire a professional service firm like SRCO to handle documentation, liaison with BIDA, and legal compliance.

2. Prepare Required Documents

You’ll need to submit the following:

• Application in prescribed format
• The parent company’s board resolution approving the liaison office
• Certificate of Incorporation and Memorandum & Articles of Association (notarized and legalized)
• Company profile and business plan
• Audited financial reports for the last 2 years
• Organizational structure and list of activities in Bangladesh
• Details of local and foreign personnel (if any)
• Forwarding letter from the local consultant

Note: All foreign documents must be attested by the respective Bangladesh Embassy or High Commission.

3. Submit Application to RJSC

Your consultant will apply to RJSC (Dhaka office). After review, RJSC may ask for clarification or additional documents.

4. Receive Approval

Once approved, RJSC will issue a approval letter. 

5. Open a Bank Account

• Open a Foreign Currency Account in a local bank.
• Remit at least USD 50,000 from the parent company for operational expenses.
• Inform Bangladesh Bank through the authorized dealer (bank)

6. Set Up an Office and Register with Tax Authorities

• Set up your physical office.
• Obtain Trade License
• Obtain TIN (Tax Identification Number)
• Obtain BIN (Business Identification Number)
• File annual statements and reports with RJSC
• Comply with NBR and labor laws (for employees)

Conditions & Compliance for Liaison Offices

• Cannot earn income or trade in Bangladesh
• All expenses must be met from foreign remittance.
• Must renew approval after expire
• Must report any changes (location, directors, activities) to BIDA and Bangladesh Bank

Timeline to Open a Liaison Office

Document preparation : 1–2 weeks

RJSC approval process 4–6 weeks

Bank account and fund remittance 1 week

Trade License, TIN, BIN and compliance setup 2 week

Total Time: 8–11 weeks (approx.)

Why Choose SRCO for Liaison Office Setup?

At SRCO, we specialize in helping foreign companies establish liaison, branch, and subsidiary offices in Bangladesh. Our end-to-end services include:

✅ Documentation and application filing

✅ Legal translations and embassy attestations

✅ Regulatory coordination and approval

✅ TIN, bank account, and compliance setup

✅ Post-approval reporting and renewal assistance

Final Thoughts

Opening a liaison office in Bangladesh is a strategic first step for foreign companies seeking to explore the local market without engaging in direct trade. With proper guidance and legal support, the process can be straightforward and fully compliant.

📞 Contact SRCO today to start your liaison office application with expert support.

 

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