Bangladesh’s Registrar of Joint Stock Companies (RJSC) introduced the 12-month Provisional Business License on May 13, 2026, which allows startups to legally operate while deferring six important approvals: trade license, fire certificate, environment clearance, VAT registration, import-export license, and factory inspection. It is available through the RJSC online portal and is targeted at SMEs and solo entrepreneurs to reduce the time for setting up from 45 days to 24 hours amid Vision 2041 reforms.
Who Can Take Part?
Sole proprietors, partnerships and private limited companies, with a valid NID/passport, a summary of their business plan and proof of their rented premises (utility bill). No minimum capital; priority for youth, women-led & digital startups. Full licences are required there, excluding high-risk sectors such as pharma or heavy manufacturing.
- This bypasses bureaucratic delays so you can bank, hire and sell straight away.
- 6 Approvals Bypassed
- Trade License (city corp/municipality)
- Certificate of Fire Safety.
- EoD Environment Clearance.
- VAT / TIN Registration: NBR.
- Import Export Registration Certificate (ERC/IRC)
- Factory License / Boiler Clearance.
Upgrade to a full license within 12 months by submitting compliance—no penalties if upgraded in time.
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How to Apply – 7 Easy Steps
- For more info, visit https://roc.gov.bd or the RJSC app. Create an account with NID/mobile.
- Under New Registration, select “Provisional License”.
- Upload NID scan, premises photo/utility bill, basic business plan (1 page), and owner photo.
- Submit fee BDT 2,000-5,000 through mobile bank (bKash/Nagad).
- You will receive a digital license PDF valid nationwide via email within 24 hours.
- Allow e-TIN integration for banking/e-invoicing.
- Full app approval rate, 99% live track status.
Pros and Cons
Manage bank accounts, sign e-loans (as per new BB rules), issue invoices, and hire personnel legally. Cost: BDT 2,000 (solo) to 5,000 (10+ staff) — 80% cheaper than a full setup. Auto-renews once if compliance begins.
Integrated with BASIS for IT firms and BKMEA for the garment industries.
Upgrade Path in 12 Months
Apply for full licenses through the single-window portal; the provisional period is counted as a compliance grace period. There is no shutdown, but a risk of a fine of BDT 50,000 for non-upgrades.
Quick Start Checklist
- Prepare NID, proof of premises, 1-pg plan.
- Processing quickest mid-week
- For e-Loans/bank accounts to use right away.
- Year 1 Track 6 Approvals.
- Rural applicants: Use the Union Digital Centres.
It’s like the SPICe+ system of India that assists 1 million startups every year. Enter your business type and location for customised steps.
