Rules for a New Trade License Application (Online and Offline)
Keep these ready before applying
- Copy of the owner's National ID card (NID)
- Recent passport-size photo of the owner
- Proof of business location: rent agreement, or if owned, the deed/khatian
- Up-to-date holding tax payment receipt for the business premises (in city/municipal areas)
- If a company: RJSC registration certificate, Memorandum and Articles of Association, list of directors
- If a partnership: partnership agreement
- For factories/hazardous businesses: applicable permissions such as fire service license and environmental clearance
- In some areas, a TIN certificate is requested
Fees, documents and timelines vary by City Corporation/Pourashava/Union and change from time to time — before applying, confirm with the relevant office or the official portal.
- Confirm which City Corporation/Pourashava/Union your business address falls under (in a City Corporation, the region/zone office).
- If an online facility is available, open an account on the official portal and apply; if not, collect the prescribed form from the office.
- Write the type of business, capital/size and address correctly — the fee depends on these.
- Upload/submit the required documents.
- Pay the prescribed license fee, signboard tax, VAT and other applicable charges, and take a receipt.
- If needed, the license inspector will inspect the premises on site.
- After approval, collect/download the trade license and display it at the business premises.
FAQ
Where do I get a trade license?
At the local government institution under which the business address falls — the City Corporation (region/zone office or online portal), Pourashava, or Union Parishad.
What is needed to get a trade license?
Generally the owner's NID, photo, a rent agreement or ownership deed for the business premises, and a holding tax receipt; if a company/partnership, the registration and agreement papers, plus additional permissions depending on the type of business.
How much does a trade license cost?
The fee is not fixed — it is determined according to the local government's tax schedule based on the type of business, capital/size and area; VAT, signboard tax and applicable charges may be added.