Trade License in Bangladesh: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide (2025)

Author: SRCO Business Insights | October 30, 2025

A trade license is one of the most essential legal requirements for starting and operating a business in Bangladesh. Whether you run a small shop, a service company, or a large corporation, having a valid trade license ensures your business is legally recognized and permitted to operate in accordance with local authority regulations. In this guide, we’ll explain what a trade license is, who needs it, the required documents, the application process, the fees, the renewal, and how SRCO BD can assist you with smooth processing.

What is a trade license?

A trade license is an official permission issued by the City corporation/municipality/union parishad that allows a business to conduct commercial activities in a specific area legally. It confirms that the business is complying with applicable laws and regulations.

Without a valid trade license, a business may face:

• Fines
• Legal actions
• Business shutdown by the authorities

So, it is mandatory for all businesses operating in Bangladesh.

Who Needs a Trade License?

A trade license is required for all types of businesses, including

Business Type: Trade License Required?

Small Retail Shop                                              ✅ Yes

Online Shop / Facebook Page Business       ✅ Yes

Company/Partnership Business                   ✅ Yes

Consultancy/Agency                                       ✅ Yes

Restaurant / Café / Bakery                            ✅ Yes

Import & Export Business                             ✅ Yes

Even home-based online businesses must obtain a trade license to operate legally.

Required Documents for Trade License Application

To apply for a trade license, you must prepare the following documents:

1. National ID (NID) of the Owner
2. Recent Passport-size Photographs
3. Rent Agreement / Ownership Proof of Business Location
4. TIN Certificate (Optional but Recommended)
5. Business Name & Nature Description
6. Holding Tax / Ward Commissioner Approval
7. Fire License (for Restaurants, Factories & Warehouses)
8. Trade License Form (Provided by Local Office)

Depending on the business type, additional documents may be required.

Government Fees (Updated for 2025)

Trade license fees vary depending on business category and area. On average:

Business Type Approx. License Fee (Yearly)

Small Business / Shop 200 – 1,000 BDT

Medium Business: 1,000 – 5,000 BDT

Industrial / Factory 5,000 – 50,000 BDT

Note: Renewal fees are similar to the initial fees and must be paid annually.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Here is the simple and clear procedure to obtain your trade license:

1. Collect the Application Form
2. Visit your city corporation/municipality/union office to get the form.
3. Fill Out the Form
4. Enter the business name, business type, owner details, business address, and contact details.
5. Attach Required Documents
6. Attach all the documents listed above.
7. Submit to the Local Licensing Office
8. Submit the form to your Ward Commissioner/Trade License Office.
9. Pay Government Fee
10. The licensing officer will assess your business category and issue a payment slip.
11. Receive Your Trade License
12. After payment verification, your trade license will be issued within a few days.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Trade License

The processing time depends on the area and document readiness.

Normally:

 2 to 5 working days

If inspection is required:

 5 to 10 working days

Renewal Process & Timeline

A trade license must be renewed every year, usually between January and March.

Online Renewal (If available in your area)

Some city corporations (like Dhaka North & Dhaka South) offer online renewal, where you can:

• Log in to the city corporation portal
• Upload documents
• Pay online
• Download the renewed certificate

However, not all municipalities support online renewal yet.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using a residential address as a business address without approval
• Not renewing the license yearly
• Not keeping copies of the rent agreement or address proof
• Giving the wrong business type (which affects tax calculation)

To avoid such issues, it is recommended to seek help from an experienced consultancy firm.

Why Choose SRCO BD for Trade License Support

SRCO BD provides professional and hassle-free trade license services across Bangladesh:

✅ Assistance with document preparation

✅ Business type consultation (to reduce future tax burden)

✅ Fast processing with city corporation/municipality offices

✅ Support in renewal and modification of trade license

✅ 100% legal and transparent process

Whether you’re a startup, a small Shop, or a corporate business, SRCO BD ensures smooth, compliant licensing.

Contact Us Now for Quick Trade License Processing

Looking for fast and reliable trade license assistance?

We are here to help.

📞 Call/WhatsApp: +880-1880-200 222

🌐 Website: https://srcobd.com

📧 Email: info@srcobd.com

Start your business legally and confidently with SRCO BD.

Blogs