LegalAsks

Invest in Bangladesh with confidence

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)

End-to-end support for foreign investors: BIDA registration, entity structuring, capital repatriation, work permits and ongoing compliance under the Foreign Private Investment (Promotion and Protection) Act.

Starting fee

৳ 75,000

Typical turnaround

3–6 weeks

Handled by

Advocates & ITPs

Foreign Direct Investment in Bangladesh

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) involves individuals or entities from one country investing in businesses or assets in another — usually by establishing operations or acquiring a controlling stake. Unlike portfolio investment it seeks control and long-term involvement, which is why the legal structure you choose on day one matters for years.

Bangladesh allows 100% foreign ownership in most sectors, full repatriation of capital and dividends, and offers tax holidays in priority industries and Economic Zones. LegalAsks guides investors from the first feasibility call through BIDA registration, Bangladesh Bank formalities and the compliance that follows.

Entry options we handle

  • Wholly-owned subsidiary (private limited company)
  • Joint venture with a local partner
  • Branch office or liaison/representative office under BIDA
  • Investment in Export Processing Zones and Economic Zones

What is included

  • Investment structuring (subsidiary, branch, liaison office, joint venture)
  • BIDA registration and investor visa recommendation
  • Bangladesh Bank permissions and share money deposit encashment certificates
  • Work permit and E-visa processing for expatriates
  • Capital and dividend repatriation advice
  • Ongoing FDI compliance calendar

How the process works

  1. 1

    Consultation & structuring

    We assess your business model, sector restrictions and the most tax-efficient entry vehicle.

  2. 2

    Entity setup

    Incorporation with RJSC or BIDA branch/liaison approval, bank account opening and share money deposit.

  3. 3

    BIDA & Bangladesh Bank

    Registration, encashment certificates and reporting of inward remittance.

  4. 4

    People & operations

    Work permits, visas, tax registrations and your first compliance calendar.

Documents you will need

We will confirm the exact list after the first consultation.

  • Passport copies of foreign shareholders and directors
  • Parent company incorporation certificate and board resolution
  • Proposed business plan and investment amount
  • Registered office address proof in Bangladesh
  • Bank encashment certificate (after remittance)

Packages & fees

Most popular

Subsidiary setup

৳ 1,50,000 / one-time

  • Private limited company
  • BIDA registration
  • TIN, VAT, trade licence
  • Bank account support
Get started

Branch / liaison office

৳ 1,20,000 / one-time

  • BIDA approval
  • Bangladesh Bank reporting
  • Tax registrations
Get started

Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum investment required for FDI in Bangladesh?
There is no single minimum investment amount applicable to every foreign investment project. The required investment may depend on the business sector, investment structure, regulatory requirements and the nature of the proposed operation.
How can foreign investment money be brought into Bangladesh?
Foreign investment funds should be brought into Bangladesh through the appropriate banking channels and in accordance with applicable foreign exchange and banking requirements.
Can a foreign investor establish a wholly owned subsidiary in Bangladesh?
Yes, a foreign investor may establish a wholly owned subsidiary in Bangladesh, subject to applicable laws and sector-specific restrictions.
What is an encashment certificate and why is it important for foreign investment?
An Encashment Certificate is a bank-issued document confirming the receipt or encashment of foreign currency remitted into Bangladesh.
Can a foreign investor bring expatriate employees to Bangladesh?
Yes, foreign-invested businesses may employ expatriate personnel where permitted by applicable laws and subject to the relevant work permit and visa requirements.
Is prior approval required before starting a foreign investment project in Bangladesh?
The requirement depends on the proposed investment structure, business sector and nature of activities.
Can a foreign investor invest in every business sector in Bangladesh?
Not necessarily. While foreign investment is permitted across many sectors, certain sectors may have restrictions, conditions or specific regulatory requirements.
How long does the FDI setup process take in Bangladesh?
The timeline depends on the selected structure, completeness of documents, regulatory approvals, banking procedures and the nature of the business. A straightforward FDI setup may take several weeks, while projects requiring additional approvals may take longer.

Ready to start with Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)?

Book a consultation or call us — we respond the same business day.

Book a Consultation +88 0181-22-22-242