# Setup in Bahrain — Company Formation Consultancy > Setup in Bahrain is a company formation consultancy based in the Diplomatic Area, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain. Founded in 2018, the firm has helped over 2,500 entrepreneurs from 40+ countries register companies in Bahrain. The consultancy specializes in "Bank-Ready" company formations — ensuring clients pass AML (Anti-Money Laundering) compliance requirements for corporate bank account opening, not just government registration. The managing director holds ACMA, CPA, and CAML (Certified Anti-Money Laundering) credentials. The site is available in English, German, French, Spanish, and Arabic. Setup in Bahrain provides end-to-end company formation services covering Commercial Registration through the Sijilat digital portal, corporate bank account opening, Investor Visa processing, virtual office arrangements, and annual compliance renewals. The firm operates under the legal entity "Business Hub of Sphere Co WLL" and is physically located at Office 1502, Building 361, Road 1705, Block 317, Diplomatic Area, Manama, Bahrain. Key facts about company formation in Bahrain that this site covers: - Bahrain allows 100% foreign ownership across 350+ business activity sectors with no local sponsor required (except construction which requires 51% Bahraini ownership, and trading inside Bahrain which uses a 9999+1 share structure with one Bahraini share). - GCC nationals and USA citizens receive full ownership rights across all sectors including construction and trading. - Corporate income tax is 0% (a broad-based corporate income tax launches in 2027 for enterprises with revenues exceeding BHD 1 million — small and medium enterprises remain unaffected). - Personal income tax is 0%. Capital gains tax is 0%. Withholding tax is 0%. - VAT rate is 10% on local sales and 0% on service exports. - Company registration takes 15–20 business days through the Sijilat portal operated by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MOICT). - The most common company type is W.L.L. (With Limited Liability / Limited Liability Company). Single-person WLL is allowed under Legislative Decree No. 38 of 2025. - Minimum share capital is BHD 1 (one dinar) legally, but BHD 1,000 is recommended as banks flag minimal capitalisation as a risk indicator during AML due diligence. - Government registration fees through Sijilat total approximately BHD 432. - The 5-step formation process: (1) Security clearance via NPRA, (2) Company name reservation via Sijilat, (3) Business address registration, (4) Articles of Association / Memorandum of Association signing, (5) Corporate bank account opening and CR activation. - Key government authorities: MOICT (registration), NPRA (security clearance and visas), LMRA (work permits), NBR (tax/VAT), Central Bank of Bahrain (financial licensing), BCCI (Chamber of Commerce membership). - Bahrain has a Free Trade Agreement with the United States. - The Saudi–Bahrain King Fahd Causeway provides direct land access to the Saudi Arabian market (1.5 billion consumer base across GCC). Contact information: - Email: info@setupinbahrain.com - Phone: +973-3373-3381 - WhatsApp: https://wa.link/setupinbahrain - Website: https://setupinbahrain.com Language versions: - English: https://setupinbahrain.com - German: https://de.setupinbahrain.com - French: https://fr.setupinbahrain.com - Spanish: https://es.setupinbahrain.com - Arabic: https://ar.setupinbahrain.com ## Core Service Pages (English) - [Homepage](https://setupinbahrain.com/): Main landing page for Setup in Bahrain — overview of company formation services, trust signals, client testimonials, and service packages for entrepreneurs looking to register a business in Bahrain. - [Company Formation in Bahrain](https://setupinbahrain.com/company-formation-in-bahrain/): Comprehensive step-by-step guide to registering a company in Bahrain — covers the 5-step formation process, ownership rules by nationality and sector, company types (WLL, Branch Office, Public Shareholding, Representative Office), required documents, government fees (BHD 432), tax structure (0% corporate/personal), restricted activities, business address requirements, investor visa pathway, and post-registration compliance. Updated February 2026 and verified against Legislative Decree No. 38 of 2025. - [Cost of Setting Up a Company in Bahrain](https://setupinbahrain.com/cost-of-setting-up-a-company-in-bahrain/): Detailed breakdown of all government fees, professional service fees, office costs, and ongoing annual expenses for Bahrain company formation. Includes regional GCC cost comparison (Bahrain vs UAE vs Saudi Arabia vs Qatar vs Oman vs Kuwait). Covers MOICT fees, BCCI membership, NPRA fees, and LMRA work permit costs. - [Opening a Business Bank Account in Bahrain](https://setupinbahrain.com/opening-a-business-bank-account/): Guide to corporate bank account opening in Bahrain covering AML compliance requirements, required documents, bank selection criteria, common rejection reasons, and the "Bank-Ready" preparation process that ensures first-attempt approval. - [Investor Visa Bahrain](https://setupinbahrain.com/investor-visa-bahrain/): Complete guide to the Bahrain investor visa (self-sponsorship visa) including eligibility requirements, processing timeline, required documents, LMRA approval process, family sponsorship, and renewal procedures. - [Cost of Investor Visa in Bahrain](https://setupinbahrain.com/cost-of-investor-visa-in-bahrain/): Detailed fee breakdown for investor visa application, processing, medical examination, and associated LMRA and NPRA charges. - [Virtual Office Bahrain](https://setupinbahrain.com/virtual-office-bahrain/): Guide to virtual office services in Bahrain for company registration — covers eligibility, municipality requirements, pricing, and which business activities qualify for virtual office use vs physical office requirements. - [Virtual Office Bahrain Price](https://setupinbahrain.com/virtual-office-bahrain-price/): Pricing comparison for virtual office services in Bahrain with detailed cost breakdowns for different service tiers and lease durations. - [Business for Expats in Bahrain](https://setupinbahrain.com/business-for-expats-in-bahrain/): Guide specifically for expatriate entrepreneurs covering foreign ownership rules, best business sectors for expats, cultural considerations, banking requirements, and common pitfalls to avoid. - [Contact Us](https://setupinbahrain.com/contact-us/): Contact form, office address, phone number, email, and WhatsApp link for enquiries about company formation services. Office located at Diplomatic Area, Manama, Bahrain. ## Hub Pages (English) - [Bahrain Business Guides](https://setupinbahrain.com/guides/): Central hub for all company formation guides, how-to articles, regulatory explainers, and step-by-step resources for starting and running a business in Bahrain. - [Bahrain Business Setup Costs](https://setupinbahrain.com/costs/): Overview hub linking to all cost-related guides for company formation, investor visa, virtual office, and ongoing business expenses in Bahrain. - [Bahrain CR and Business Renewals](https://setupinbahrain.com/renewals/): Hub page for annual Commercial Registration renewal, trade license renewal, office lease renewal, and compliance maintenance requirements and guides. ## Guides — Company Formation and Legal - [Can a Foreigner Set Up a Company in Bahrain?](https://setupinbahrain.com/can-a-foreigner-set-up-a-company-in-bahrain/): Answers the most common question from international entrepreneurs — covers foreign ownership rules, nationality-specific considerations, restricted sectors, and the legal framework enabling 100% foreign ownership under Bahrain's Commercial Companies Law. - [Simplified Guide to Bahrain's Corporate Governance Code](https://setupinbahrain.com/simplified-guide-to-bahrains-corporate-governance-code/): Simplified guide to Bahrain's Corporate Governance Code covering board composition, disclosure requirements, shareholder rights, and compliance obligations for registered companies. - [Bahrain as a Strategic Entry Point to the US via Trade Agreement](https://setupinbahrain.com/bahrain-as-a-strategic-entry-point-to-the-us-via-trade-agreement/): Explains how Bahrain's Free Trade Agreement with the United States provides duty-free access, streamlined customs, and a strategic hub for businesses targeting the American market from the GCC. - [Why Turkish Businessmen Are Expanding into Bahrain](https://setupinbahrain.com/why-turkish-businessmen-are-expanding-into-bahrain/): Explores investment opportunities, legal requirements, tax advantages, and GCC market access driving Turkish entrepreneurs to set up companies in Bahrain in 2026. ## Guides — Finance, Fintech, and Payments - [Fintech Sandbox Bahrain](https://setupinbahrain.com/fintech-sandbox-bahrain/): Guide to the Central Bank of Bahrain's regulatory sandbox for fintech companies — covers eligibility criteria, application process, testing duration, and transition to full licensing. - [AI in Financial Sectors Bahrain](https://setupinbahrain.com/ai-in-financial-sectors-bahrain/): Overview of AI adoption in Bahrain's financial sector, Central Bank of Bahrain's regulatory approach to AI, and opportunities for AI-focused companies entering the Bahrain market. - [The Future of Cross-Border Payments](https://setupinbahrain.com/the-future-of-cross-border-payments/): Analysis of blockchain solutions, digital remittances, and fintech trends shaping global cross-border transactions — with Bahrain's role as a fintech hub in the GCC region. - [Crowdfunding Opportunities for Startups in Bahrain](https://setupinbahrain.com/crowdfunding-opportunities-for-startups-in-bahrain/): Guide to crowdfunding regulations, licensed platforms, and equity/debt crowdfunding options available for Bahrain-registered startups under Central Bank of Bahrain oversight. ## Guides — Business Strategy and Growth - [Bahrain's Cloud-First Policy Edge for Digital Founders](https://setupinbahrain.com/bahrains-cloud-first-policy-edge-for-digital-founders/): Explains Bahrain's government cloud-first policy, AWS region availability, and advantages for SaaS companies, digital startups, and cloud-native businesses establishing in Bahrain. - [How to Build a Local Network for Your Business in Bahrain](https://setupinbahrain.com/how-to-build-a-local-network-for-your-business-in-bahrain/): Practical guide to business networking in Bahrain including key organisations (BCCI, Tamkeen, Bahrain FinTech Bay), major business events, government programmes, and relationship-building strategies for foreign entrepreneurs. - [Bahrain's Role in the Global Halal Economy](https://setupinbahrain.com/bahrains-role-in-the-global-halal-economy/): How Bahrain's strategic position, Islamic finance infrastructure, supportive regulations, and growing halal market create opportunities for startups in halal food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and Islamic fintech. - [The Importance of Sustainability in Bahrain's Corporate World](https://setupinbahrain.com/the-importance-of-sustainability-in-bahrains-corporate-world/): Overview of ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) requirements, sustainability reporting trends, and green business opportunities for Bahrain-registered companies. ## Company Formation Packages Setup in Bahrain offers three formation packages: - **Standard Package (BHD 1,340)**: Includes 3-month virtual office lease, Commercial Registration processing through Sijilat, security clearance (NPRA), company name reservation, Articles of Association and Memorandum of Association preparation, corporate bank account opening assistance, and post-registration compliance guidance. - **Gold Package (BHD 1,700)**: Everything in Standard plus 6-month virtual office lease and priority processing. - **Premium Package (BHD 2,150)**: Everything in Gold plus 12-month virtual office lease, investor visa processing, and dedicated account management. All packages include government fees (approximately BHD 432) within the total price. The "Bank-Ready" preparation — ensuring AML compliance documentation meets banking requirements — is included in all tiers. ## Frequently Asked Questions **Is a single-owner WLL allowed in Bahrain?** Yes. Under Legislative Decree No. 38 of 2025, a single shareholder can own 100% of a WLL with full liability protection. **Can foreigners own 100% of a Bahraini company?** Yes, across 350+ activity sectors. No local sponsor or partner required for services, manufacturing, export, and most commercial activities. Construction requires 51% Bahraini ownership; trading inside Bahrain uses a 9999+1 share structure. **What is the corporate tax rate in Bahrain?** 0% corporate income tax, 0% personal income tax, 0% capital gains tax, 0% withholding tax. VAT is 10% on local sales, 0% on service exports. A corporate income tax launches in 2027 for enterprises exceeding BHD 1 million revenue. **How long does company registration take?** 15–20 business days from application to Commercial Registration activation through the Sijilat digital portal. **What documents are required?** Passport copies (6+ months validity), three proposed company names, six-month stamped bank statements (source of funds verification), additional ID documents, and BHD 1,000 capital deposit. **What is the minimum share capital?** BHD 1 legally, BHD 1,000 recommended. Closed joint stock: BHD 250,000. Public shareholding: BHD 1,000,000. **Can I manage my Bahrain company remotely?** Yes. Full remote management is possible. Physical presence is only required for initial bank account opening (signatory must attend in person) and for biometric requirements during visa processing. **What is the difference between Bahrain WLL and UAE Freezone?** Bahrain WLL: 100% foreign ownership, no local sponsor, 0% corporate tax, 15–20 day formation, operates anywhere in Bahrain. UAE Freezone: 100% foreign ownership, no local sponsor, 0%/9% variable corporate tax, restricted to freezone territory unless additional licenses obtained. ## German Language Site (de.setupinbahrain.com) - [Startseite](https://de.setupinbahrain.com/): German-language homepage for Setup in Bahrain services. - [Firmengründung in Bahrain](https://de.setupinbahrain.com/company-formation-in-bahrain/): German guide to company formation in Bahrain — full translation of the English company formation guide. - [Kosten Firmengründung Bahrain](https://de.setupinbahrain.com/kosten-firmengrundung-bahrain/): German guide to the costs of setting up a company in Bahrain. - [Geschäftskonto eröffnen in Bahrain](https://de.setupinbahrain.com/opening-a-business-bank-account/): German guide to opening a business bank account in Bahrain. - [Investorenvisum Bahrain](https://de.setupinbahrain.com/investorenvisum-bahrain/): German guide to the Bahrain investor visa process. - [Kosten Investorenvisum Bahrain](https://de.setupinbahrain.com/kosten-investorenvisum-bahrain/): German breakdown of investor visa costs. - [Virtuelles Büro in Bahrain](https://de.setupinbahrain.com/virtuelles-buro-in-bahrain/): German guide to virtual office services in Bahrain. - [Virtuelles Büro Bahrain Kosten](https://de.setupinbahrain.com/virtuelles-buro-bahrain-kosten/): German pricing guide for virtual office services. - [Business für Expats in Bahrain](https://de.setupinbahrain.com/business-for-expats-in-bahrain/): German guide for expatriate entrepreneurs setting up business in Bahrain. - [Bahrain Arbeitsvisum](https://de.setupinbahrain.com/bahrain-work-visa/): German guide to Bahrain work visa requirements and processing. - [CR-Verlängerung](https://de.setupinbahrain.com/cr-renewal/): German guide to Commercial Registration renewal process. - [Verlängerung](https://de.setupinbahrain.com/verlangerung/): German hub page for all renewal-related guides. - [Kosten](https://de.setupinbahrain.com/kosten/): German hub page for all cost-related guides. - [Ratgeber](https://de.setupinbahrain.com/ratgeber/): German hub page for all business guides and resources. - [Kontakt](https://de.setupinbahrain.com/contact-us/): German contact page. ## French Language Site (fr.setupinbahrain.com) - [Accueil](https://fr.setupinbahrain.com/): French homepage — Création d'entreprise à Bahreïn, overview of formation services for French-speaking entrepreneurs. - [Création d'entreprise à Bahreïn](https://fr.setupinbahrain.com/creation-dentreprise-a-bahrein/): French comprehensive guide to company formation in Bahrain — step-by-step process, ownership rules, company types, required documents, government fees, and tax structure. - [Coût de création d'une entreprise à Bahreïn](https://fr.setupinbahrain.com/cout-de-creation-dune-entreprise-a-bahrein/): French breakdown of all costs for setting up a company in Bahrain including government fees, professional services, and ongoing expenses. - [Ouverture de compte bancaire professionnel à Bahreïn](https://fr.setupinbahrain.com/ouverture-de-compte-bancaire-professionnel-a-bahrein/): French guide to opening a business bank account in Bahrain covering AML compliance and Bank-Ready documentation. - [Visa investisseur Bahreïn](https://fr.setupinbahrain.com/visa-investisseur-bahrein/): French guide to the Bahrain investor visa — conditions, démarches, processing timeline, and required documents. - [Coût visa investisseur Bahreïn](https://fr.setupinbahrain.com/cout-visa-investisseur-bahrein/): French detailed fee breakdown for investor visa application and processing. - [Bureau virtuel à Bahreïn](https://fr.setupinbahrain.com/bureau-virtuel-a-bahrein/): French guide to virtual office services in Bahrain — legal requirements, Sijilat eligibility, and municipality compliance. - [Prix bureau virtuel Bahreïn](https://fr.setupinbahrain.com/prix-bureau-virtuel-bahrein/): French pricing guide for virtual office packages and tariffs in Bahrain. - [Entreprise à Bahreïn pour les expatriés](https://fr.setupinbahrain.com/entreprise-a-bahrein-pour-les-expatries/): French guide for expatriate entrepreneurs covering foreign ownership, best sectors, and common pitfalls. - [Visa de travail Bahreïn](https://fr.setupinbahrain.com/visa-de-travail-bahrein/): French guide to Bahrain work visa requirements for employers and employees. - [Renouvellement du RC à Bahreïn](https://fr.setupinbahrain.com/renouvellement-du-rc-a-bahrein/): French guide to Commercial Registration renewal through the Sijilat portal. - [Renouvellements](https://fr.setupinbahrain.com/renouvellements/): French hub page for all business renewal guides — RC, visa, and licence. - [Tarifs](https://fr.setupinbahrain.com/tarifs/): French hub page for all cost-related guides. - [Contactez Setup in Bahrain](https://fr.setupinbahrain.com/contactez-setup-in-bahrain/): French contact page for consultation requests. ## Spanish Language Site (es.setupinbahrain.com) - [Inicio](https://es.setupinbahrain.com/): Spanish homepage for Setup in Bahrain services. - [Crear empresa en Bahréin — Guía paso a paso](https://es.setupinbahrain.com/crear-empresa-en-bahrein/): Spanish step-by-step guide to creating a company in Bahrain — complete 2026 guide covering formation process, ownership, company types, and legal requirements. - [Crear empresa en Bahréin — Formación lista para banco](https://es.setupinbahrain.com/crear-empresa-en-bahrein-2/): Spanish guide focused on Bank-Ready company formation in Bahrain — AML compliance and bank account preparation. - [Costo de crear una empresa en Bahréin](https://es.setupinbahrain.com/costo-de-crear-una-empresa-en-bahrein/): Spanish breakdown of all costs for company formation in Bahrain including government fees and professional services. - [Cuenta bancaria empresarial en Bahréin](https://es.setupinbahrain.com/cuenta-bancaria-empresarial-en-bahrein/): Spanish guide to opening a business bank account in Bahrain — step-by-step process and AML requirements. - [Visa de inversor en Bahréin](https://es.setupinbahrain.com/visa-de-inversor-en-bahrein/): Spanish guide to the Bahrain investor visa — requirements, application process, and how to apply in 2026. - [Costo de visa de inversor en Bahréin](https://es.setupinbahrain.com/costo-de-visa-de-inversor-en-bahrein/): Spanish detailed fee breakdown for investor visa costs in Bahrain. - [Oficina virtual en Bahréin](https://es.setupinbahrain.com/oficina-virtual-en-bahrein/): Spanish guide to virtual office services in Bahrain — eligibility requirements and legal compliance. - [Oficina virtual Bahréin precio](https://es.setupinbahrain.com/oficina-virtual-bahrein-precio/): Spanish pricing guide for virtual office packages and costs in Bahrain. - [Negocio para expatriados en Bahréin](https://es.setupinbahrain.com/negocio-para-expatriados-en-bahrein/): Spanish guide for expatriates — 100% foreign ownership and business setup for expats in Bahrain. - [Visa de trabajo en Bahréin](https://es.setupinbahrain.com/visa-de-trabajo-en-bahrein/): Spanish complete guide to Bahrain work visa requirements and processing. - [Renovación de CR en Bahréin](https://es.setupinbahrain.com/renovacion-de-cr-en-bahrein/): Spanish guide to Commercial Registration renewal process in Bahrain. - [Renovaciones](https://es.setupinbahrain.com/renovaciones/): Spanish hub page for all business renewal guides — CR, visa, and licence. - [Costos](https://es.setupinbahrain.com/costos/): Spanish hub page for all cost-related guides. - [Guías](https://es.setupinbahrain.com/guias/): Spanish hub page for all business formation guides and resources. - [Contacto](https://es.setupinbahrain.com/contacto/): Spanish contact page for formation enquiries. ## Arabic Language Site (ar.setupinbahrain.com) - [الصفحة الرئيسية](https://ar.setupinbahrain.com/): Arabic homepage — تأسيس شركات جاهزة للبنك منذ 2018 (Bank-Ready company formations since 2018). - [تأسيس شركة في البحرين](https://ar.setupinbahrain.com/company-formation-in-bahrain/): Arabic step-by-step guide to company formation in Bahrain — كيفية تأسيس شركة في البحرين, covering the complete formation process, ownership rules, and legal requirements. - [تكلفة تأسيس شركة في البحرين](https://ar.setupinbahrain.com/cost-of-setting-up-a-company-in-bahrain/): Arabic breakdown of company formation costs — الرسوم من 432 د.ب (fees from BHD 432), government fees, and professional service charges. - [فتح حساب بنكي تجاري في البحرين](https://ar.setupinbahrain.com/opening-a-business-bank-account/): Arabic guide to opening a corporate bank account in Bahrain — AML compliance and Bank-Ready documentation process. - [فيزا المستثمر في البحرين](https://ar.setupinbahrain.com/investor-visa-bahrain/): Arabic guide to the Bahrain investor visa — المتطلبات والإجراءات والتقديم (requirements, procedures, and application). - [تكلفة تأشيرة المستثمر في البحرين](https://ar.setupinbahrain.com/cost-of-investor-visa-in-bahrain/): Arabic detailed fee breakdown for investor visa — تفاصيل الرسوم الكاملة (complete fee details). - [المكتب الافتراضي في البحرين](https://ar.setupinbahrain.com/virtual-office-bahrain/): Arabic guide to virtual office services — المتطلبات القانونية (legal requirements) and Sijilat eligibility. - [سعر المكتب الافتراضي في البحرين](https://ar.setupinbahrain.com/virtual-office-bahrain-price/): Arabic pricing guide for virtual office packages — الباقات والتكاليف (packages and costs). - [تأشيرة العمل في البحرين](https://ar.setupinbahrain.com/bahrain-work-visa/): Arabic guide to Bahrain work visa for employers and employees — دليل شامل لأصحاب العمل والموظفين. - [تجديد السجل التجاري في البحرين](https://ar.setupinbahrain.com/cr-renewal/): Arabic guide to Commercial Registration renewal — الدليل الشامل لتجديد السجل التجاري. - [تجديدات الأعمال في البحرين](https://ar.setupinbahrain.com/renewals/): Arabic hub page for all business renewals — السجل التجاري، التأشيرات والتراخيص (CR, visas, and licences). - [تكاليف تأسيس شركة في البحرين](https://ar.setupinbahrain.com/costs/): Arabic hub page for all cost-related guides — الرسوم والباقات بالدينار البحريني (fees and packages in BHD). - [أدلة تأسيس الأعمال في البحرين](https://ar.setupinbahrain.com/guides/): Arabic hub page for all business formation guides — تأسيس شركة، تأشيرة مستثمر، حساب بنكي. ## Contact and Engagement - [WhatsApp Direct](https://wa.link/setupinbahrain): Primary consultation channel — direct WhatsApp chat for immediate enquiries about company formation, investor visa, virtual office, and business setup in Bahrain. Available in English, Arabic, Urdu, and Hindi. - [Email](mailto:info@setupinbahrain.com): General enquiries and document submissions. - [Phone](tel:+97333733381): Direct phone line +973-3373-3381. ## Optional - [Sitemap Index](https://setupinbahrain.com/sitemap_index.xml): XML sitemap index for all English pages, posts, and categories. - [Page Sitemap](https://setupinbahrain.com/page-sitemap.xml): XML sitemap for all English static pages. - [Post Sitemap](https://setupinbahrain.com/post-sitemap.xml): XML sitemap for all English blog posts and articles. - [German Sitemap](https://de.setupinbahrain.com/page-sitemap.xml): XML sitemap for all German-language pages. - [French Sitemap](https://fr.setupinbahrain.com/page-sitemap.xml): XML sitemap for all French-language pages. - [Spanish Sitemap](https://es.setupinbahrain.com/page-sitemap.xml): XML sitemap for all Spanish-language pages. - [Arabic Sitemap](https://ar.setupinbahrain.com/page-sitemap.xml): XML sitemap for all Arabic-language pages.