How to Register a Sole Proprietorship (One Person Company) in Qatar

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In the Persian Gulf, on the shore of the Arabian Peninsula, lies Qatar. It is small in size, but it has one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. It offers many business opportunities for foreign investors, and the government has regulations that permit 100% business ownership for foreigners. The Sole Proprietorship Company, also called One Person Company, is the most common form of business. The establishment and registration procedure can sometimes be confusing, but we are here to help you.

Disclaimer: Be aware that this article is not a substitute for legal advice. Please always check official websites or seek legal advice before you take action.‍

What is a Sole Proprietorship Company (SPC) or One Person Company in Qatar?

Every economic activity, the capital of which is fully owned by one natural person or corporate entity, is considered a Sole Proprietorship Company in Qatar. As mentioned before, most investors choose this form to start their business in this country. It follows the Limited Liability Company structure, but with only one shareholder or investor. This means that you are the owner of the entire share capital, and the liability is limited to the extent of investment. You also take responsibility for the company's obligations.

A foreign company can establish a Sole Proprietor Company as a wholly-owned subsidiary if it obtains an exemption to the Foreign Investment Law.

The minimum share capital required to start a Sole Proprietorship Company in Qatar is QAR 200,000 (approximately USD 54,000).

Registration of the Sole Proprietorship Company (SPC) in Qatar

Here is the step-by-step guide on how to register your Sole Proprietorship Company:

• First, you need to check for the trade name availability. Here is the commercial register search tool. If the name is available, you can register it at the official company registry. The company name should have the name of its Sole Proprietor linked to it, followed by the phrase "Sole Proprietorship Company (SPC)".
• To start a Sole Proprietorship Company, you have to visit the commercial registration and licenses department at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry office. There you will obtain the application form.
• A foreign owned-company has to get approval on the Articles of Association. This approval can be received from the Ministry of Business and trade. You need to collect the application form of the Article of Association from the Ministry of Business and Trade office.
• To register a trade name, you have to submit a request to the public service officer at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) or any of its branches.
• After receiving your trade name, complete the form with the required information and make sure you have all the documents:

1. Filled application form
2. Approval of the entities concerned with commercial activities, in case the activity requires approval
3. Articles of association documents
4. Copy of ID card

• Submit them to the officer in the commercial registration and licenses department in the MOCI office.
• Now the authorities will verify your application and validate the submitted documents within a few days.

Apply online

The application can also be submitted online through the Single Window website. Just register, then click on the establish button and follow the instructions.

Taxes for the Sole Proprietorship Company in Qatar

Qatar's corporate tax is levied at 10%, which gets calculated on the total income generated by the business. Currently, there is no VAT in Qatar.

Looking to hire independent contractors in Qatar? Here's how you can ensure compliance.