Opening and support of companies

Sometimes, when entering a foreign market, it makes sense to register a new company rather than buy an existing one. Such a company often then requires support — accounting, legal, etc. These services can be ordered from REAB.

These services are divided into one-time and recurring.

One-time services

• Consulting on company registration for a foreign owner
• Company registration and notification of the relevant government agencies
• Choosing a tax regime
• Opening bank accounts
• Obtaining licenses, certificates, and permits
• Managerial personnel recruitment
• Consulting and assistance in obtaining work visas, temporary residence permits, and permanent residence permits

Recurring services

• Accounting services
• Audit services
• Tax consulting
• Customs Support
• HR Support

We are not a law or accounting firm. Therefore, we provide these services through our trusted partners, accredited for this work in a specific list of countries. Currently, we can provide these services in the following countries: Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, China, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Romania, Turkey, Qatar, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Egypt, Mauritius, Venezuela.

Companies with foreign capital are granted the same conditions, operating rules, and business benefits as Russian organizations, with some exceptions.

Foreign companies can open any business, with the exception of forestry, fishing, security, fruit and vegetable processing, weapons manufacturing, banking, and certain other sectors.

Company registration by foreigners in Russia allows for full ownership of the business without a local partner. The most common form is a limited liability company (LLC) with a minimum authorized capital of 10,000 rubles. Registration is carried out through the Federal Tax Service and requires a legal address, opening a bank account, and providing notarized documents.

In free economic zones (FEZs), foreign investors receive additional benefits: the possibility of 100% foreign ownership, tax incentives, exemption from import duties on equipment, and simplified administrative procedures. Obtaining work permits for employees is also simplified.

Key nuances:

• Strategic sectors (energy, defense, media) may have restrictions on foreign ownership;
• Minimum capital and legal address requirements vary by zone;
• Licenses are required for certain industries;
• Opening a bank account often requires the personal presence of the founder.

In SEZs, the licensing procedure is often simplified, but depends on the specific zone and type of activity.

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Business registration by foreigners in Kazakhstan allows for full ownership of the company without a local partner. The most common form is a limited liability company (LLP). Registration is conducted through the State Corporation "Government for Citizens" or the egov.kz electronic system and requires a legal address, authorized capital, and a bank account. Some industries, such as energy, finance, and transportation, may require additional licenses and permits.

As a general rule, a foreign citizen requires a C5 visa to open a company. This rule does not apply to citizens of EAEU member states or those that have concluded visa-free entry and exit agreements with Kazakhstan. Also, not all types of activities are permitted for companies established by foreign citizens or companies. Such restrictions are established, for example, in the laws "On Security Activities," "On National Security of the Republic of Kazakhstan," and "On Mass Media."

In free economic zones (FEZs), foreign investors receive additional benefits: 100% foreign ownership, tax breaks, simplified customs procedures, land tax breaks, and administrative expense benefits.

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Foreign citizens can open a business in Uzbekistan on equal terms with local entrepreneurs. The most common form is an LLC (limited liability company). The minimum authorized capital is approximately 400,000 soums (approximately $30). A foreign individual can be a founder and director.

Company registration is carried out through the Unified State Services Portal and takes 3-5 business days. A charter, a resolution on incorporation, a legal address, and a bank account are required. After registration, the company receives a tax identification number (TIN) and is registered for tax purposes.

Special economic zones (SEZs) have been created in Uzbekistan to attract foreign investment and develop industry. Currently, more than 20 zones are in operation, including "Navoi", "Angren", "Jizzakh", "Khazarasp", "Urgut", and others. SEZs are created in strategically advantageous regions, near transport corridors and industrial centers, facilitating product exports. Advantages of SEZs include tax exemptions, duty-free import of equipment and raw materials, simplified administrative procedures, and ready-made infrastructure.

Foreign investors often choose to register in SEZs because it reduces costs and simplifies exports. Doing business in Uzbekistan also provides the opportunity to obtain a residence permit for the founder.

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Foreign entrepreneurs in Kyrgyzstan can open companies under the same conditions as local citizens. The most popular form is the LLC (similar to an LLC), which has no minimum authorized capital requirement. A company can be 100% foreign-owned, and the director can be either a local resident or a foreign citizen. However, to actually work in the country, a foreign director will need a work visa or a residence permit. Registration requires a legal address and a set of constituent documents. The registration procedure typically takes one to three days and is conducted through justice authorities using a "one-stop shop" format. Registration can be done through a representative with a power of attorney, without the foreigner's personal presence.

Kyrgyzstan's tax system is considered one of the simplest in the region. The general tax system applies a 10% corporate income tax and a 12% VAT. Simplified tax regimes are available for small businesses, with turnover taxes ranging from 2% to 6% depending on the industry and volume of activity. Special preferential regimes exist for IT companies. After registering a company, an entrepreneur must open a bank account, register with the tax authorities, and obtain permits if necessary.

There are several special economic zones in Kyrgyzstan. Obtaining SEZ resident status provides significant tax and customs benefits. Companies are exempt from income tax, VAT, sales tax, and duties on imported equipment and raw materials, and also enjoy simplified customs procedures. It is important that the company's activities are actually conducted within the SEZ.

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Company registration by foreigners in China has its own specific requirements. Foreign investors can own up to 100% of a company's capital in most industries open to foreign investment through the WFOE (Wholly Foreign-Owned Enterprise) format—a company with wholly foreign capital. However, in a number of strategic sectors, such as telecommunications, media, education, and certain financial services, restrictions stipulated by the government's Negative List remain in effect.

A local partner is not required if the activity is permitted for wholly foreign ownership. However, certain regulated industries may require the formation of a joint venture with a Chinese partner or obtaining special permits.

The most common form of business is the WFOE, but foreign investors can also establish joint ventures, branches of foreign companies, and representative offices if their activities meet established requirements.

Company registration is carried out through the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR). The procedure includes reserving a name, preparing incorporation documents, obtaining a business license, and producing corporate seals, which are legally binding in China and are used to sign most official documents.

To conduct business, you must have a registered legal address in China, open a corporate bank account, register for tax purposes, and connect to the e-Fapiao electronic system for issuing official tax invoices. After registration, a company can also issue work permits and visas for foreign employees, subject to immigration requirements.

Special conditions apply in Free Trade Zones (FTZ) and other special economic zones, where simplified administrative procedures, expedited project registration, and additional support measures for foreign investors are provided for certain industries.

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Company registration by foreigners in Serbia has a number of nuances that are worth considering. Foreign citizens can own the business 100%, without the need to bring in a local partner. The most common form is a limited liability company (d.o.o.), which requires a minimum authorized capital.

Registration is carried out through the Serbian Business Registration Agency (APR). A company's legal address is required—this can be obtained either by renting an office or through a virtual address service. After registration, a bank account is opened, which often requires the personal presence of the founder and notarized documents.

Companies are required to maintain accounting records and submit annual reports to the tax authorities and the APR. Some sectors, such as finance, energy, and transportation, require additional licenses.

Companies registered in Serbia's Free Economic Zones (FEZs) receive tax benefits, including exemption from corporate income tax and equipment import taxes, as well as simplified administrative procedures and the ability to quickly obtain work permits for employees.

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Business registration by foreigners in Bosnia and Herzegovina is fairly transparent and allows for full foreign ownership of the company without the requirement for a local partner. The most common form is a limited liability company (d.o.o.) with a minimum authorized capital.

Registration is carried out through the Business Registration Agency (APR) or similar bodies in the country's two autonomous entities—the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republika Srpska. A legal address, the submission of incorporation documents, and the opening of a bank account are required.

Foreign owners have equal rights with local entrepreneurs, can freely repatriate profits, and obtain work and residence permits.

The Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations is responsible for special investment zones. By law, Bosnia and Herzegovina has several free economic zones, where investors can operate under preferential conditions.

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Foreign citizens can freely open and own a business in Montenegro under the same conditions as locals. The primary form of registration is a limited liability company (LLC). The minimum authorized capital is 1 euro, making the process affordable.

Registration is processed through the Central Registry (CRPS) and takes approximately 5-7 business days. It is necessary to prepare the articles of association, the resolution on incorporation, indicate the legal address, and open a bank account. The director's personal presence is often required to open the account.

The tax system is simple and favorable: corporate income tax is 9%, dividends are 9%, and VAT is 21% (reduced rates are 7% and 0% for certain sectors). The company is required to maintain accounting records and submit annual reports.

The country has special economic zones (SEZs), which offer additional benefits: an exemption from income tax for up to 8 years, preferential rental terms, and simplified customs procedures.

Company registration also entitles you to obtain a residence permit in Montenegro.

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Foreigners can open and own a business in Romania without restrictions. The most popular form is the SRL (similar to an LLC) with a minimum authorized capital of 1 euro. Registration takes approximately 5-7 business days and is conducted through the Trade Registry. You must prepare the articles of association, indicate the legal address, contribute capital, and open a bank account. The founder and director can be the same person, including a foreigner.

The tax system is transparent and favorable for small businesses: corporate income tax is 16%, for companies with an annual turnover of up to 500,000 euros, it is 1% if they have at least one employee. VAT is 19%, with preferential rates of 9% and 5%.

The country has special economic zones (SEZs) and industrial parks (for example, Constanta, Galati, Sulina), which offer tax and customs benefits: exemption from import duties, reduced taxes, simplified procedures, and developed infrastructure.

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Business registration by foreigners in Turkiye allows for full ownership of the company without a local partner. The most common form is a limited liability company (Limited Şirket, Ltd. Şti.) with a minimum authorized capital. Registration is conducted through the Chamber of Commerce and the Trade Registry Office and requires a registered office and a bank account. Foreigners must provide notarized documents and translations into Turkish.

In free economic zones (FEZs), foreign investors receive additional benefits: the possibility of 100% foreign ownership, tax incentives, exemption from import duties on equipment, simplified visa and labor procedures, as well as a legal address and registration through the administration of a specific FEZ.

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Company registration by foreigners in Qatar has its own specific requirements. Since 2020, foreign investors are allowed to own up to 100% of a company's capital in most industries, with the exception of strategically important sectors such as defense, banking, and insurance.

A sponsor (local partner) is not required if the business is registered in a free zone or in a permitted sector with 100% foreign ownership. However, in certain industries and business types, a sponsor is still required.

The most common form of business is a limited liability company (LLC), but branches, representative offices, and joint ventures are also permitted.

Company registration is carried out through the Ministry of Commerce and Industry of Qatar (MOCI) and the Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry. To conduct business, you must obtain commercial, trade, and municipal licenses, as well as have a registered legal address in Qatar. After registration, the company gains the right to sponsor work visas for foreign employees.

Special conditions apply in free economic zones, where foreign investors can own companies 100%, enjoy tax breaks, and simplified registration procedures.

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In the UAE, legal entities are strictly tied to a specific emirate.

Foreign investors have two main options: registering a company on the mainland or in one of the free zones.

In the mainland, 100% foreign ownership has been permitted for most activities since 2021, with the exception of certain strategic industries, which still require a local partner who is a UAE citizen. Registration is completed through the Department of Economic Development of the relevant emirate. You must select the type of activity, legal form, register the company name, and obtain a trade license.

In free zones, a foreign investor can own the company 100%, exercise full management control, and repatriate profits without restrictions. Each zone has its own rules, registration authorities, and specialization.

After registration, a company can independently sponsor employees for work visas.

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Company registration by foreigners in Saudi Arabia has its own specifics. As part of the Vision 2030 economic reform program, foreign investors are permitted to own up to 100% of a company's capital in many sectors of the economy. However, certain activities remain restricted or require special permits in accordance with current legislation.

A local partner or sponsor is generally not required if the activity permits full foreign ownership. However, certain regulated industries may have special requirements for ownership structure, licensing, and government approval.

The most common legal form is a limited liability company (LLC). Foreign investors can also register a joint stock company (JSC), a branch of a foreign company, a regional headquarter (RHQ), or a representative office, depending on the business objectives and the nature of the activity.

Company registration is carried out through the relevant government authorities in Saudi Arabia. The process includes obtaining an investment permit (if required), registering with the Ministry of Commerce, completing Commercial Registration (CR), registering with the tax authorities, registering with government funds, and opening a corporate bank account. To begin operations, you must also obtain industry licenses, if required for your chosen type of business, and have a registered legal address within the Kingdom.

Once registered, the company receives legal entity status and can conduct commercial activities, enter into contracts, open corporate bank accounts, act as an employer, issue work visas for foreign employees, and participate in public and private projects.

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Company registration by foreigners in Bahrain has its own specific requirements. In most industries, foreign investors are permitted to own up to 100% of the company's capital without the need for a local partner. However, certain licensed activities may be subject to restrictions or require special permits.

The most common legal form is a limited liability company (W.L.L. - with limited liability). Foreign investors can also register a joint-stock company (BSC), a branch of a foreign company, a representative office, or a sole proprietorship, depending on the business objectives and the nature of the activity.

Company registration is carried out through the Bahraini Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MOIC) using the Sijilat electronic system. The process includes reserving a company name, preparing incorporation documents, obtaining necessary approvals, registering the legal entity, completing Commercial Registration (CR), obtaining industry licenses (if required), opening a corporate bank account, and registering for tax purposes, if required by law. Company registration also requires a registered legal address in Bahrain.

Once registered, the company is authorized to conduct commercial activities, enter into contracts, open corporate bank accounts, hire employees, and issue work visas for foreign specialists in accordance with Bahraini law.

Additional benefits are available to companies registered in Bahrain's free zones. Investors can take advantage of tax incentives, modern infrastructure, simplified administrative procedures, and the possibility of full foreign ownership of their businesses.

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Company registration by foreigners in Kuwait has its own specific requirements. In most cases, foreign investors can own up to 100% of the company's capital, subject to obtaining a license through the Kuwait Foreign Direct Investment Authority (KDIPA) or by registering the business in one of the free trade zones. Certain types of activities still require the participation of a local partner who holds a controlling interest in the company.

The most common legal form is a limited liability company (LLC). Foreign investors can also register a branch of a foreign company, a representative office, or a joint-stock company (KSC), depending on the business objectives and legal requirements.

Company registration is handled through the Kuwait Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI). The process includes reserving a company name, preparing incorporation documents, obtaining the necessary permits, registering the legal entity, obtaining a commercial license, registering for tax purposes (if necessary), registering with government agencies, and opening a corporate bank account. To conduct business, the company must have a registered legal address in Kuwait, and for certain types of businesses, additional industry-specific licenses must be obtained.

Once registered, the company gains the right to conduct commercial activities, enter into contracts, open corporate bank accounts, import and export goods, hire employees, and obtain work visas and residence permits for foreign specialists in accordance with current legislation.

Additional benefits are available to companies registered under the KDIPA investment programs and special economic projects. Depending on the type of activity, investors can count on tax incentives, exemptions from customs duties on certain categories of equipment and materials, as well as administrative support for implementing investment projects in Kuwait.

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Foreign entrepreneurs are permitted to own a company in mainland Oman with 100% ownership in most sectors. Registration is completed through the Invest Easy electronic system, making the entire process faster and more transparent. Investors must select a legal structure, determine the authorized capital in accordance with the requirements for a specific type of activity, obtain commercial registration and licenses, and open a bank account.

Oman's special economic zones offer additional advantages to foreigners. The key zones—Duqam, Sohar, and Salalah—offer expanded tax incentives, extended periods of corporate tax exemption, the possibility of 100% foreign ownership, simplified customs procedures, preferential land lease rates, and modern infrastructure for industry, logistics, trade, and assembly.

The special economic zones attract companies focused on exports, manufacturing, logistics, and projects related to global supply chains. Business registration in these zones is conducted through specialized zone governing bodies and is typically faster than in mainland Oman. A number of zones offer expedited visa procedures for employees and specialists.

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Company registration by foreigners in Egypt has its own specific requirements. In most industries, foreign investors are permitted to own up to 100% of the company's capital without the requirement for a local partner. However, certain regulated sectors, such as import-export activities, certain types of agency services, and strategic industries, may have special requirements and restrictions.

The most common legal form is a limited liability company (LLC). Foreign investors can also register a joint-stock company (JSC), a single-member company (SPC), a branch of a foreign company, or a representative office, depending on the business objectives and the nature of the activity.

Company registration is handled through the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI) of Egypt. The process includes reserving a company name, preparing and certifying incorporation documents, registering the legal entity, obtaining a commercial registration (Commercial Register), obtaining a tax identification number, registering with social security authorities (if you have employees), opening a corporate bank account, and obtaining the necessary licenses for certain types of activities. A registered legal address in Egypt is also required for company registration.

Once registered, the company gains the right to conduct commercial activities, enter into contracts, open corporate bank accounts, hire employees, obtain work and residence permits for foreign specialists, and participate in public and private projects.

Additional benefits are available to companies registered in Egypt's free economic and investment zones. Investors can take advantage of tax and customs benefits, simplified administrative procedures, modern infrastructure, and other government support measures for investment projects.

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Company registration by foreigners in Mauritius has its own specific requirements. Foreign investors can own up to 100% of the company's capital without the need for a local partner. Certain licensed activities, such as financial services, insurance, investment activities, and fund management, require special permits from regulatory authorities.

The most common legal form is a Private Company Limited by Shares. Foreign investors can also register a Global Business Company (GBC), a Public Company, a branch of a foreign company, or a representative office, depending on the business objectives and the nature of the activity.

Company registration is carried out through the Registrar of Companies of Mauritius. The process includes reserving a company name, preparing incorporation documents, registering the legal entity, obtaining a Certificate of Incorporation, registering with the Mauritius Revenue Authority, opening a corporate bank account, and obtaining the necessary licenses for certain activities. A registered legal address in Mauritius is also required for company registration.

Once registered, the company is authorized to conduct commercial activities, enter into contracts, open corporate bank accounts, conduct international transactions, hire employees, and obtain work permits for foreign specialists in accordance with the country's laws.

Additional benefits are available to companies conducting international activities through the Global Business regime. Investors can take advantage of a favorable tax regime, a wide network of international double taxation treaties, the absence of exchange controls, a high level of investment protection, and simplified procedures for conducting international business.

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Foreign entrepreneurs can own 100% of the shares in most businesses, with the exception of strategic sectors (oil, telecom, defense), where certain restrictions and state participation apply. Company registration is carried out through the Unified State Register (RNC) and includes preparing incorporation documents, obtaining a tax identification number (RIF), opening a bank account, and registering with the labor security system. Foreign investments are subject to mandatory registration, and the invested capital must remain in the country for at least two years. Due to the complex currency system and bureaucracy, foreign entrepreneurs often require local legal support. Some legal entities require a local co-owner and/or business manager.

If a company plans to operate in special economic zones (SEZs), it can receive tax and customs benefits, as well as simplified conditions for importing equipment. To do this, it is necessary to enter into an agreement with the state regulator of the SEZ and regularly confirm fulfillment of investment obligations. SEZs make projects more profitable, but require strict compliance with the rules, otherwise the benefits may be revoked.

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