A branch office in Qatar is a local setup of a foreign company that works as part of its main office. This branch is not a separate legal company. It works as part of the parent company, which is fully responsible for everything the branch does. The branch office can carry out activities such as marketing, sales, and distribution on behalf of the parent company.
To open a branch office in Qatar in 2025, a foreign company must first get a Ministerial Decree. This special approval allows the company to fully own a branch without needing a local partner.
To apply, the following documents are required:
All documents must be notarized, legalized, and submitted with certified Arabic translations if originally in another language.
Once the Ministerial Decree is approved, the company must then apply for Commercial Registration by submitting additional documents.
If you need help with the registration process or relocating your business, local company setup experts and legal advisors in Qatar can assist you throughout.
A branch office in Qatar is only allowed to carry out the activities listed in the specific government contracts it is registered for. If the company wants to take on new or different contracts, it must first get approval from the authorities.
The branch’s license is valid only for the time period of the contract(s) it is based on. Once the contract ends, the branch must be closed—unless the company signs new contracts with the government, which can allow the branch to continue operating.
Unlike a subsidiary, a branch cannot do a wide range of business activities. It is limited to the tasks approved by its parent company and listed in its official documents, like the Memorandum and Articles of Association.
Many foreign companies choose to open branch offices in Qatar. If you're a foreign investor interested in this setup, here’s a simple step-by-step guide:
Start by submitting an application to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. This form includes details about the parent company, its owners, and the planned branch.
You’ll need to gather and submit important documents such as:
Local consultants can help prepare and submit these documents on your behalf.
To legally operate in Qatar, your branch must have commercial residence status, which is issued by the Ministry.
You must open a local bank account for the branch to manage its business finances.
Depending on your business type, you may need extra approvals like a commercial license and signage license before starting operations.
Register the branch for tax purposes in Qatar. This includes Value Added Tax (VAT) and corporate income tax.
If you plan to bring in foreign staff, make sure to arrange work visas, residence permits, and other immigration documents. Legal experts in Qatar can help with this process.
Qatari law requires proper accounting and financial reporting. You can hire a local accounting firm instead of setting up an in-house department.
Although not mandatory, it’s a good idea to appoint a local manager to oversee day-to-day operations in Qatar.
A legal representative is required to handle formal procedures and registration with government departments.
Opening a branch office is an attractive option for foreign companies working on government projects in Qatar. However, it comes with specific requirements and restrictions, so professional guidance is highly recommended. For investors exploring different business structures, a branch office is one of several pathways available under the broader framework of company formation in Qatar.
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