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Entrepreneur License

The Saudi Entrepreneur License.What You Need to Know.

Apply for Saudi Entrepreneur License Now

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Saudi Arabia now offers a dedicated license for foreign founders who want to set up and fully own a company in the Kingdom. Issued by MISA and built specifically for innovation-driven businesses.

Overview

What makes it different from a regular business license?

Unlike a standard investor license, this one is built for early-stage founders. You do not need a local Saudi partner. You can own 100% of your company. And the capital requirements are minimal. MISA looks at your business model, not your bank balance.

Eligibility

Who qualifies?

You need to be backed by a recognised incubator, accelerator, VC firm, or a government body like MISA, PIF, KAUST, or similar. Your business needs to be innovation-based. Sole proprietorships are not eligible.

Process

How the process works

01

Get a support letter

Secure a support letter from a recognised incubator or VC firm.

02

Prepare your documents

Business plan, incorporation certificate, passport copies, and financials translated into Arabic.

03

Apply through MISA's portal

Approvals typically take 3 to 7 business days once submitted.

04

Get your Commercial Registration

Issued by the Ministry of Commerce. This is your official company identity in Saudi Arabia.

05

Register on government platforms

Including Qiwa, GOSI, ZATCA, and a few others depending on your activity.

06

Open a business bank account

And you are fully operational in the Kingdom.

07

Additional requirements

Additional license requirements may apply depending on your specific business activity.

Key Numbers

Numbers to know before you apply

SAR 2,000
License fee per year for the first three years
SAR 25,000
Minimum capital for foreign companies registered abroad for over a year
1 Year
License validity, renewed annually for up to 5 years
FAQs

Common questions

Can I apply if I'm based outside Saudi Arabia?

Yes. Whether you're an individual or already have a company abroad, you're eligible. Everyone qualifies.

Can I really own 100% of my company?

Yes. No local sponsor or partner needed. Full ownership is one of the main reasons founders choose this route.

How long does the whole setup take?

The endorsement letter may take 14 days. Full setup including CR, government portals, and bank account, typically takes 2-3 months. Anyone promising less is false.

What if I want to grow beyond the startup stage?

You do not need to upgrade. The entrepreneur license is as good as general investor license

Is this only for tech startups?

No. It covers other services, and sectors, as long as the business is innovation-driven and backed by a recognised entity.

Apply

Apply for the entrepreneur license

Fill out the short form below and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.